Bichon Shih Tzu
Bichon Shih Tzu is fast getting popular, as this mix dog breed has a happy and carefree personality. Go through this article, if you want to know about this dog.
As the name implies, Bichon Shih Tzu is a mix breed that is a cross between the French and Chinese lapdogs called Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu respectively. Both these breeds are highly popular as they are intelligent, friendly and loyal, with a happy attitude. So, a cross between these breeds will share these characteristics, and are found to be very much suitable for those who require a happy and loving pet dog. Here are some Bichon Shih Tzu facts that will help you in knowing more about this dog breed.
Bichon Shih Tzu Information
So, now you know that Bichon Shih Tzu is not a purebred dog, but is a cross between Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu. This mix breed has other names, like, Zuchon, Shichon, Tzu Frise, Teddy Bear, Shichon-Teddy Bear, etc. Most of the Bichon Shih Tzu dogs are found to have a fluffy, but curly coat that is inherited from Bichon Frise and the flat face of Shih Tzus. These mix breed dogs are available in a wide range of colors and color combination. Bichon Shih Tzus have a body weight that ranges between ten to fourteen pounds, and are found to have a height of nine to twelve inches at shoulders. They are found to be classified as small, medium and large, as per their body size. Bichon Shih Tzus have large, brown, eyes and their nose is usually small (with one inch nose bridge) and flat. But, you may find some with slightly longer nose. They have a gentle and friendly nature and love to spend time with humans.
Why to Choose Bichon Shih Tzu
Before choosing a particular dog breed as your pet, you must know more about its advantages and disadvantages. In case of Bichon Shih Tzu, the biggest advantage is its nature, which is often described as friendly and gentle with a happy disposition. This makes these dogs perfect for those families with small kids and elderly people. Their small size is also beneficial for city dwellers, who live in apartments with space constraints. Another popular aspect about these dogs is that they are non shedding. As compared to most other dogs, shedding is almost nil in case of Bichon Shih Tzus. But, this requires you to provide them with regular grooming. They must be trimmed at regular intervals. Being a cross breed makes it less prone to genetic diseases. Again this depends on various other factors, like, the medical condition of the parent dogs.
Bichon Shih Tzu Problems
In short, Bichon Shih Tzus are friendly dogs that are very popular as pets. But, you must have a basic understanding about Bichon Shih Tzu care, before adopting one as a pet. The most important aspect is regular grooming, which is unavoidable, as the dog is hairy. The hair, if not groomed at regular intervals, may cause irritation to the dog’s eyes and may also result in matting. These mix breed dogs are also susceptible to teeth problems, as they have very small teeth. It is advisable to brush their teeth as often as possible. You must also make sure that the dog is not getting overweight, as it can lead to breathing problems. You have to provide them with healthy food, so as to avoid these dogs from getting obese.
Now, you have a fair idea about Bichon Shih Tzus pros and cons. If you find that the advantages over weigh the disadvantages, then, you may choose this mix breed as your pet. Otherwise too, they are ideal as pets for families with small kids and elderly people. Even those living in small apartments may go for this small-sized dog. All you have to do is to enjoy their companionship and provide them with adequate care. Make sure that you buy Bichon Shih Tzu puppies from a reputable breeder.
