German ShepherdShih Tzu is a rare mixed breed, resulting from the interbreeding of German Shepherd and Shih Tzu. The German Shepherd Shih Tzu is often called German Shih Tzu. They are reserved, and so it can be difficult to socialize with them. Once they get used to the owner, they are extremely loyal and make the best companion dogs. The German Shepherd Shih Tzus are not very aggressive, but they are aggressive and can be intimidated when threatened. They are confident, alert, and excellent watchdogs. They are often confused with Lhasa Apso, but they have significant differences in their appearances.
The physical features depend on the parent’s traits, whose genes the puppy has inherited strongly. The size of German Shih Tzus ranges from as small as 7 inches to 26 inches, and they weigh around 10 to 65 pounds.
Friendliness Overview
Affection Level
High
Family-Friendly
Medium
Kid-Friendly
Medium
Pet-Friendly
Medium
Strangers-Friendly
Low
Adaptability Overview
Good for New Pet Owners
Medium
Good for Apartment Living
Medium to High
Sensitivity Level
Medium to High
Tolerates being alone
Low to Medium
Cold Tolerance
Medium
Heat Tolerance
Low to Medium
Trainability Overview
Easy to Train
Medium to High
Intelligence
High
Prey Drive
Medium
Tendency to Chew, Nip & Play-bite
Medium to High
Tendency to Bark or Howl
Medium
Wanderlust Ability
Low
Attention/Social Needs
Medium to High
German Shepherd Vs. Shih Tzu: A Comparison
The following are some of the features of the two distinct breeds, German Shepherd and Shih Tzu.
German Shepherd and Shih Tzu dogs have many common temperaments. They both are loyal, affectionate, and intelligent. The offspring German Shepherd Shih Tzu mix is a lovable companion and needs lots of attention. Some dogs can inherit the energetic, outgoing character from the German Shepherd parent, while some can inherit the stubbornness from the Shih Tzu parent.
German Shepherd Shih Tzu Training
As German Shepherd Shih Tzu is a mixed breed, the dog will inherit the character traits of both German Shepherd and Shih Tzu while the gene of one of the parents can be dominant. Early training and socialization are vital to prevent any undesired qualities. They can become aggressive and stubborn if not socialized adequately, so it must be added to obedience training. The training can be started once the puppy is eight weeks of age. They are intelligent and can learn quickly and efficiently. House-breaking German shepherd Shih Tzu can be difficult, so potty training should be carried out consistently. They tend to bark a lot, so it is essential to train them to stop barking on command. Positive reinforcement of good behaviors and consistent training will make this dog a better companion.
German Shepherd Shih Tzu Exercise Needs
Exercise sessions should be short and structured. Maintain moderate exercises and do not make the dog overwork during the sessions and exhaust. As involving German Shepherd Shih Tzu in tedious exercises could result in more harm than good, they require 1 hour of exercises twice a day, including walking and jogging. However, regular exercise is necessary to prevent obesity and other adverse health problems.
Exercise Needs Overview
Energy Level
Medium
Exercise Needs
Medium
Playfulness
High
Intensity
Medium to High
German Shepherd Shih Tzu Grooming
German Shepherd Shih Tzus need regular grooming of their coat to avoid skin infections and matting. Brushing the coat with a grooming comb twice a day will help maintain the coat and check for any skin condition. Their teeth have to be brushed twice a week to avoid plague and avoid dental problems. Grooming sessions should also include cleaning the ear and trimming the nails.
Grooming Overview
Amount of Shedding
Medium to High
Easy to Groom
Medium
German Shepherd Shih Tzu Health
The idea that mixed breeds are significantly healthier (and less prone to health issues) is a myth. To prevent many health issues, check with the breeder regarding the health history of the parents.
Health Overview
Basic Health
Medium
Weight Gain Possibilities
Medium to High
Though the possibility of contraction is low, the following are some health issues that can affect the German Shepherd Shih Tzu mix.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia is a joint condition caused when the bones of the rear legs don’t fit properly in the joints. It can be painful, and fatal but only some dogs show any visible symptoms. Hip Dysplasia is hereditary, but factors like obesity, injuries, wrong exercises can also cause hip dysplasia. Treatments range from medication to replacement of the hip through surgeries.
Elbow Dysplasia
An inherent structural defect in the elbow joints because of cartilage damage, inflammation, or disrupted anconeal is Elbow dysplasia. It is common in large breed dogs, causing arthritis leading to pain or organ malfunction.
Obesity
Excess weight or sudden weight gain can cause joint problems, back pain, digestive disorders, and heart disease. German Shepherd Shih Tzu is more prone to obesity. Proper diet and exercise can avoid this obesity.
Allergies
Dogs can be allergic to food, environmental factors like pollen, grass which can be identified through allergy tests. Allergies can cause breathing issues and skin itching. There is no cure for allergies, but allergy shots and avoiding exposure to the allergens can control allergies.
Cataracts
A cataract is the growth of a white film-like layer covering the eye lens, making the eye look opaque. It is genetically transmitted and is more prevalent in dogs with the strong Shih Tzu genes. If cataracts are ignored, it can lead to blindness and might require surgery to treat this condition.
Bladder Infections:
Both male and female German Shepherd Shih Tzu dogs and puppies can get bladder infections which can be painful and requires medical treatment.
Underbite
If the interbred puppy has inherited Shih Tzu genes, it could suffer from underbite, also known as undershot. The dogs with this condition have a wider lower jaw, and when their mouth is closed, the upper set of their teeth will settle behind the lower set of their teeth instead of settling outside of the lower teeth set, which is the normal alignment.
German Shepherd Shih Tzu Diet & Nutrition
Two meals a day is recommended, and the nutritious diet should depend on the dog’s size and energy level. As this mixed breed is susceptible to joint diseases, supplements like chondroitin, glucosamine, and Omega 3 fish oils should be added to their diet. Check the calorie intake and manage the treat quantity as obesity can be dangerous for German Shepherd Shih Tzu. Ensure the availability of clean drinking water every time. Homemade foods are always healthier and safe than store-bought dog food products. Consult a veterinarian before planning a diet to include all the necessary nutrients.
German Shepherd Shih Tzu Living Condition
The German Shepherd Shih Tzu can be a lapdog and companions of their owners. They are not suited to be sheltered outdoors. They thrive around the owner and can be amused with toys when the owner is busy. They may not be suitable to play with children or old family members before proper training to avoid aggressiveness. They could not tolerate high temperatures and humidity.
Things To Remember Before Interbreeding
Interbreeding dogs with huge size variations like German Shepherd and Shih Tzu may not always be safe. Breeding a female Shih Tzu with a male German Shepherd can cause serious complications for the female Shih Tzu. Therefore, the advisable choice would be the interbreeding of male Shih Tzu with a female German Shepherd.
