Shih Tzu Poodle Mix
Shih Tzu + Poodle (Toy/Miniature) cross. Also called: Shih-Poo.
The Shih Tzu Poodle Mix typically weighs 8-18 lbs, needs 200-450 calories per day, and lives 13-17 yrs. Size, appearance, and temperament can vary widely depending on which parent's genes are more dominant.
Size and nutrition
The Shih Tzu Poodle Mix can weigh anywhere from 8-18 lbs (3.6-8.2 kg), a wide range that reflects the size difference between the Shih Tzu and Poodle (Toy/Miniature). Because mixes are unpredictable, watch your dog's actual body condition rather than targeting a specific number on the scale.
Daily calorie needs for a Shih-Poo range from 200-450 kcal depending on their adult size, activity level, and whether they are spayed/neutered. Use our calorie calculator with your dog's actual weight for a personalized estimate.
Get your Shih-Poo's exact calorie needs.
CalculateHealth risks from both parent breeds
Mixed breed dogs can inherit health conditions from either parent breed. The Shih Tzu Poodle Mix may be susceptible to conditions common in both Shih Tzus and Poodle (Toy/Miniature)s. Mixed breeds often benefit from hybrid vigor, but this is not guaranteed, and responsible health screening of parent dogs remains important.
Look up the health profiles for both parent breeds for a complete picture of potential health concerns:
Exercise and activity
Shih-Poos have low to moderate exercise needs that suit apartment living perfectly. Two short walks daily plus indoor play sessions keep them content. They enjoy training games and puzzle toys but won't demand hours of vigorous activity. Their small size means a hallway fetch session counts as real exercise.
Care and grooming
The Shih-Poo coat ranges from straight (Shih Tzu-dominant) to curly (Poodle-dominant). Curly coats mat easily and need daily brushing plus professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Their flat-faced Shih Tzu heritage can cause tear staining; wipe the eye area daily. Dental disease is common in small breeds; prioritize tooth care.
What to expect from a Shih-Poo
Affectionate, playful, and people-oriented. Shih-Poos inherit the Shih Tzu's companion drive and the Poodle's intelligence, creating a charming, trainable small dog. They attach strongly to their family and may develop separation anxiety if left alone regularly. They are generally friendly with strangers and other pets.
Frequently asked questions
Adult Shih-Poos typically weigh 8-18 lbs (3.6-8.2 kg). The wide range reflects the size difference between Shih Tzus and Poodle (Toy/Miniature)s. First-generation crosses (F1) are the most unpredictable for size. Looking at the parents' sizes gives the best estimate. Puppies that are larger at 8 weeks tend to be larger adults, but this is not guaranteed.
Daily calorie needs range from 200-450 kcal depending on your dog's actual adult size and activity level. Since mixes vary so much in size, use our calorie calculator with your dog's current weight rather than relying on breed averages. Weigh your dog monthly and adjust portions to maintain healthy body condition.
Mixed breeds often benefit from hybrid vigor, meaning their broader gene pool reduces the risk of conditions that concentrate in purebred lines. However, a Shih Tzu Poodle Mix can still inherit health issues common to either the Shih Tzu or the Poodle (Toy/Miniature). Research both parent breeds' health profiles and ask the breeder about health testing of the parents. Regular veterinary checkups catch any inherited conditions early.
Tools for Shih-Poo owners
Disclaimer: Mixed breed characteristics vary significantly. The weight, calorie, and health information here represents the combined range of both parent breeds. Individual dogs may fall outside these ranges. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026