Shih Tzu Mixes: 36 Different Shih Tzu Crossbreeds

Last Updated on April 18, 2023

Shih Tzus are incredible dogs, with a stunning mane of hair and a personality that really stands out. 

Combined with any number of other amazing dogs out there, you get a combination that will warm your heart and fill your life with fun. 

Below are 36 Shih Tzu mixes that you should know about.

What is a Shih Tzu?

The Shih Tzu is a small dog, weighing just 9 to 16 pounds and about 10 inches at the shoulder. But they pack a lot of personality into that tiny frame.

They are covered in a luxurious mane of glossy hair that makes them instantly recognizable.

Known as “lion dogs,” this ancient breed is charming, mischievous, affectionate, friendly, and a little bit spoiled (in a good way!). 

They make great family dogs and get along with kids wonderfully. The Shih Tzu can be just as happy in a tiny apartment as they can on a giant farm. What matters is that they get to be close to you. 

In fact, their idea of fun is being able to sit in your lap and soak up all the attention. 

So why would you consider a Shih Tzu mixed breed? By adding a second breed to the lion dog’s already impressive personality, breeders have added additional characteristics.

Adding a second breed can also change the dog’s size and general appearance. 

On top of that, increasing the gene pool can also make for a healthier dog that doesn’t suffer from all the same issues that a purebred dog might have.

36 Most Popular and Adorable Shih Tzu Mixes

Ready to learn about the most popular Shih Tzu mixes out there? Let’s dive in!

1. Toy Poodle Shih Tzu mix (AKA Shih-Poo)

A Shih-Poo, also known as a Pooshi or a Shoodle, is a Shih Tzu and a Toy Poodle mix, although sometimes a miniature poodle is used, instead. 

The size depends on the parent breeds, with a Miniature Poodle obviously making a larger puppy. They may have curly or straight hair or something in between.

As a designer dog, there is no breed standard, and there isn’t any consistency in their appearance and personality, but they are generally friendly, fun, active, and clever. They can also live a long time, up to 16 years. 

And, as you can see in this video, they’re adorable when they are puppies! 

2. Yorkie Shih Tzu mix (AKA Shorkie)

As you may have guessed, a Shorkie combines the Yorkshire Terrier dog breed with the Shih Tzu. These adorable pups are the ultimate lap dog, always ready to snuggle up with you. 

This Yorkie mix has a big personality despite its small stature, however.

They aren’t afraid to challenge a bigger dog or another person and they will yap at just about anything, from a burglar to a best friend at the door. They’re the ultimate watchdog!

Because both parents have that long, silky coat, this is one dog that will need a lot of grooming to look and feel its best.

3. Bichon Shih Tzu mix (AKS Shichon or Zuchon)

What could be better than a Bichon Frise and a Shih Tzu? This combination of dog breeds results in a tiny teddy bear that is the perfect companion dog if you want a sweet pup that will always be by your side. 

Also known as Zuchons and Teddy Bear dogs, Shichons are below-shedders that require daily brushing.

They have lots of energy, and while they’re happy to sit on the couch and watch tv, they also want to romp and play – preferably with you!

4. Maltest Shih Tzu mix (AKA Mal-Shi)

When the elegant Maltese dog breed meets the sweet Shih Tzu, the result is Malshi, a sweet toy dog that won’t want to leave your side.

These pups are sweet, gentle, intelligent, and adaptable as long as they have their people with them. 

Because they’re so fixated on their humans, they can be prone to separation anxiety, so early training and socialization are key. Luckily, this Maltese mix is easy to train. 

They have long hair that makes them look elegant and graceful, but it also means that you need to brush them frequently.

5. Chihuahua Shih Tzu mix (AKA ShiChi)

The Chihuahua meets the Shih Tzu in this mix breed. Sometimes called the Chi Tzu or the Shi Chi, this pooch has a lot of personality in a small body.

They don’t need a ton of exercise, just 25 minutes or so a day, whether that’s playing fetch or a short walk. 

They have short hair that is straight and they can be a range of colors, from fawn to brindle or pure black, white, brown, or tan.

6. Pomeranian Shih Tzu mic (AKA Shiranian or Pomshi)

The Shiranian (also known as the Shih-pom, the Shih-a-pom, and the Pom-tzu) combines two incredibly popular dogs into one lively little pup.

This breed has the Shih Tzu’s loving, friendly personality blended with the Pomeranian’s zest for life. 

You don’t want to leave at home this charming dog. They want to be with you all the time, no matter what you’re doing. 

They have a gorgeous, silky coat that can be wavy or straight and a range of colors, like red, chocolate, sable, black, gold, orange, or brindle. 

7.  Shih Tzu Bulldog mix (AKA Bully-Tzu)

The Bully-Tzu, a mix of a Bulldog and a Shih Tzu, is a bit larger than many other Shih Tzu mix dogs.

They weigh between 20-30 pounds and get anywhere from 8-12 inches tall at the shoulder, with females smaller than males.

They can be stubborn and independent, but they’re also as loyal as can be. 

This is a rare combination to come across, but they’re recognizable by their long, straight coat and short nose. 

8. Boston Terrier Shih Tzu mix (AKA BoShih)

What do you get when you cross a Boston Terrier and a Shih Tzu? The BoShih! Some people also call them Bo Shins and Boston Shih Tzus, but whatever you call them, they’re adorable. 

These dogs love nothing more than to be curled up on your lap hanging out. They don’t need a ton of exercise and their shorter hair makes them easier to groom than a purebred Shih Tzu.

9. Pekingese Shih Tzu mix (AKA Shinese)

The Shih Tzu and Pekingese dogs are similar in a lot of ways, with their smooshy faces and loving temperaments. These are small dogs, weighing less than 16 pounds and under 13 inches tall. 

They can be a little feisty and headstrong, but they’re also friendly and affectionate with their families. 

10. Lhasa Apso Shih Tzu mix (AKA Shih Apso)

The Shih Tzu was likely bred in part using the larger Lhasa Apso, which hails from Tibet. So it’s no surprise that breeders today are combining the two together again.

These pups are devoted, lively, stubborn, and sweet. 

11. Pug Shih Tzu mix

You guessed it, this crossbreed features the Shih Tzu and the Pug. Since there isn’t any breed standard, you never know exactly what you’ll get when you mix these two.

But most dogs end up being under 22 pounds and 12 inches tall. 

They usually have medium-length hair that is straight and black, brown, white, fawn, brindle, or any combination. 

This tiny pup has a lot of personality, though they can suffer from small dog syndrome. 

12. Dachshund Shih Tzu mix (AKA Schweenie)

This might seem like an unlikely pairing, but Schweenie’s are pretty adorable. They look somewhat like a Shih Tzu that has been stretched out, though of course, all litters look a little different. 

They can have a thick, shiny, silky coat, a wiry coat, or a short coat, depending on the type of Dachshund parent they were bred with.

These dogs are silly, fun-loving, and smart. Just don’t leave them alone for too long, they can get separation anxiety.

13. Miniature Schnauzer Shih Tzu mix (AKA Schnau-Tzu)

Also known as a Shih Schnauzer, this canine is a blend of a Miniature Schnauzer and a Shih Tzu.

They have adorably half-folded ears and curly tails. Their coat can be short and wiry like the Schnauzer, or shaggier like a Shih Tzu. 

14. Corgi Shih Tzu mix (AKA Shorgi)

The adorable Shorgi combines the Shih Tzu and the Corgi (usually the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, but some breeders use the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, as well). 

This dog has some serious attitude, and not in a bad way! They are sure of themselves and know what they want, but they’re also affectionate, friendly, and full of fun. 

As you’d expect, this dog looks like a Corgi and a Shih Tzu mixed together, with an elongated body and short legs.

They usually have a somewhat medium-length coat and a long tail curled over the back. They’re generally larger than the average Shih Tzu. 

15. Havenese Shih Tzu mix (AKA Havashu)

The Havanese and the Shih Tzu are two incredibly cute dogs, so just imagine what they look like when they’re combined! They’re fairly small, anywhere from 8-15 pounds, and under 12 inches tall. 

They’re generally low shedders and hypoallergenic, so they’re good for someone who has allergies. 

These are sweet, social, playful dogs that want to be next to you as much as possible. They can be a little stubborn when they want something, but they’re smart and willing.

16. Pitbull Shih Tzu mix (AKA PitShih)

A Pitbull and a Shih Tzu? Yes! These two dogs combine to make a sweet, loyal, brave companion. They have short hair and are somewhere between the two in terms of size. 

This is a rare combination and you won’t see them very often. 

17. Jack Russell Terrier Shih Tzu mix (AKA Jack Tzu)

Looking for a small dog with a ton of spunk? The Jack Russell Terrier Shih Tzu mix, known as the Jack Tzu, may be just what you’re looking for.

This dog has a shaggy coat that is smart, friendly, and incredibly active.

While Shih Tzu owners can get away with being a bit of a couch potato, Jack Russells have the energy to burn, so they’re better suited to a person who likes to be active.

18. Beagle Shih Tzu mix (AKA Bea-Tzu)

If you can’t decide between a fun-loving, vocal Beagle and a regal, affectionate Shih Tzu, why not get a dog that combines both? 

Like many of the Shih Tzu mixes, there isn’t a breed standard for this crossbreed, so you never know what you’ll end up with. But they’re generally laid-back, loyal, protective dogs with medium-length coats.

19. French Bulldog Shih Tzu mix (AKA French Bull Tzu)

When a French Bulldog and a Shih Tzu combine, you get the French Bull Tzu. 

Small to medium-sized, feisty, and friendly, this pup is a typical velcro dog, always wanting to be on your lap (or at least nearby). 

20. Husky Shih Tzu mix (AKA Tzusky)

It may sound like an unlikely combination, but the Siberian Husky and the Shih Tzu can be bred together to make a fascinating hybrid. 

This is a rare combination and the resulting pups can have varying personality traits and appearance, though you can be sure that they’ll be larger than a normal Shih Tzu. 

21. German Shepherd Shih Tzu mix (AKA German Shih Tzu)

Like the Husky Shih Tzu, the German Shih Tzu combines two seemingly very different dogs, the result is worth checking out. 

These dogs are athletic, hard-working, and intensely loyal like a German Shepherd, but they also retain the regal, affectionate, friendly attitude of the Shih Tzu. 

22. Papillon Shih Tzu mix (AKA Papastzu)

This spunky pooch combines the traits of the Shih Tzu and the Papillon. They can be a bit bossy and stubborn, with tons of small dog confidence. They’re also playful, sweet, and obsessed with their people. 

23. Brussels Griffon Shih Tzu mix (AKA Shiffon)

The Shiffon is a little dog, under 11 inches and under 15 pounds. This crossbreed combines the Brussels Griffon and the Shih Tzu. 

These pooches are black or brown with a shaggy, medium-length coat that is wiry and dense. 

They are full of energy and always happy, curious, and ready to play. This is one dog that doesn’t realize its size and will take on any challenge. 

24. Cairn Terrier Shih Tzu mix (AKA Care-Tzu)

The Cairn Terrier meets the Shih Tzu in the adorable Care-Tzu. A small dog with a soft, long, straight coat, these dogs are eager to please, curious, and happy. 

If you want a dog that will be a part of the family, this dog is a good option. They get along with kids and always want to be with the group, whether that’s on a short hike or just hanging out watching a movie. 

25. Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzu mix (AKA Cock-A-Tzu)

A Cocker Spaniel bred with a Shih Tzu makes for a medium-sized, loyal, protective, sweet, and outgoing little companion. 

With a long, soft coat that can be straight or wavy, these dogs require some grooming. But don’t let that put you off. They may shed less than other breeds and look glamorous with their gorgeous locks. 

26. Rat Terrier Shih Tzu mix (AKA Ratshi Terrier)

Rat terriers are small, energetic dogs with a drive to work and a fun-loving nature.

Combine that with the lively, alert, and charming Shih Tzu and you have quite the combination! Watch out, though. They can be impatient and may nip. 

There’s no standard for how they will look, but in most cases, they have a shaggy, medium length coat and are brown, black, tan, or a combination. 

27. Japanese Chin Shih Tzu mix (AKA Jatzu)

Just when you thought a Shih Tzu mix couldn’t get any cuter, along comes the Jatzu. This dog combines the Japanese Chin and the Shih Tzu.

Both dogs were originally bred to be companion animals, so of course, they are friendly and always wanting to be near you. 

These dogs have a ton of personality and are cheerful companions that can practically fit in your pocket. They rarely get larger than 20 pounds and they’re under 11 inches tall. 

28. Miniature Australian Shepherd Shih Tzu mix (AKA Auss-Tzu)

The Miniature Australian Shepherd is a popular dog thanks to its intelligence and loyalty.

When combined with the Shih Tzu, you get a pup that is perfect for an active family looking for a companion that always wants to come along. 

These dogs are trainable, high energy, and sweet.

While the Shih Tzu can be stubborn, the addition of the Aussie makes it more likely that they’ll be willing to make you happy, especially when it comes to training and potty training. 

29. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Shih Tzu mix (AKA Cava Tzu)

Looking for a petite pup with a personality to spare? The eager-to-please, affectionate, lively, and silly Cava Tzu is the answer.

This Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Shih Tzu mix is smart, loves to learn, and positively demands to be the center of attention. 

While many small dogs are barkers, the Cava Tzu is more likely to examine a situation before barking about it. They don’t need a ton of exercise, but their thick, silky, long hair needs daily brushing.

30. Silky Terrier Shih Tzu mix (AKA Silky Tzu)

The Silky Terrier is often confused with the Yorkshire Terrier, but don’t let their similar appearance fool you.

This dog is sturdy, quiet, curious, and alert. They have an adorable expression thanks to their large, almond eyes. 

They also have a magnificent blue and tan coat that, when combined with the Shih Tzu’s own glorious fur, makes for a note-worthy pup. Just don’t forget to brush them frequently!

They are the ideal companion for someone who wants a beautiful dog that doesn’t shed and that stays under 10 pounds but isn’t fussy or sensitive like some toy dogs.

31. Toy Fox Terier Shih Tzu mix (AKA Fo Tzu)

The Toy Fox Terrier is a recent addition to the American Kennel Club, but they began as barnyard ratters in the early 20th century. 

These tiny canines are smart, eager, lovable, and tenacious. Add in the regal bearing and the friendly nature of a Shih Tzu, and you have a fun companion for the family (so long as the kids are careful with this tiny pup). 

These dogs are usually small, under 9 pounds, and only get about 11 inches tall. 

32. Coton de Tulear Shih Tzu mix (AKA Coton Tzu)

Shih Tzus are unmistakable thanks to their elegant coat, but so is the Coton de Tulear, a small dog with a massive white coat that resembles cotton. 

These dogs are happy, sturdy, and love to clown around with their family. In fact, they’re known as the court jesters of the dog world. Just don’t leave them alone, they want to be with you at all times. 

The dogs stay small, under about 15 pounds, and shorter than 11 inches, so they are the perfect size to bring with you wherever you go. 

33. West Highland White Terrier Shih Tzu mix (AKA Westie Tzu)

When you combine the West Highland White Terrier and the Shih Tzu, you get a dog that combines traits of both.

The Westie is charming, smart, confident, and loves to entertain. This terrier mix is similar in size to the Shih Tzu. 

Weshis can have long or medium-length hair that is either white or a combination of any of the colors a Shih Tzu comes in, so they can vary widely in appearance. 

34. American Eskimo Shih Tzu mix (AKA Shih-Mo)

The American Eskimo is a spitz-type dog, but don’t let that elegant white coat fool you. These dogs are clever, quick-minded, and always alert. They can be slow to warm up to people, though they aren’t shy. 

However, when combined with the Shih Tzu’s friendly personality, the Shih-Mo is often social, sweet, and outgoing. 

There are several different sizes of American Eskimos, and the size of a Shih-Mo depends on which size the Eskie parent is. 

35. Bolognese Shih Tzu mix (AKA Bolo-Tzu)

The Bolo-Tzu, a combination of the Bolognese dog and the Shih Tzu, is calm, playful, loving, and devoted to their families. 

Bolognese has long, fluffy, white hair, so a Shih Tzu mixed with this dog is likely to have some amount of white in its coat. 

This is a rare breed and there isn’t any standard, so it’s hard to say exactly what they’ll look like, but they are usually quite small, around 10 pounds, and under 11 inches. 

36. Golden Shih Tzu mix

Want a dog that’s a little bit larger than a Shih Tzu but with all the lovely personality traits? Meet the Golden Shih Tzu, which is a Golden Retriever Shih Tzu mix.

As you can imagine, this is a friendly, goofy, loving dog that still retains that lion-like regal bearing. 

These dogs get to be somewhere between a Shih Tzu and a Golden Retriever, which means they usually weigh about 40 pounds and get around 15 inches tall.

This can vary, however, depending on the specific litter. You never know what you’ll get! 

Which Shih Tzu Mixes are Your Favorites?

This isn’t an exhaustive list of Shih Tzu mixes. You can pretty much find the lively little lion dog mixed with any similarly-sized breed out there.

For instance, I’ve seen shelties (Shetland Sheepdogs) combined with Shih Tzus and they were adorable! 

It’s hard to pick one favorite, I know, but which of these combinations jump out at you? Have you ever had one of your own?

If you love Shih Tzus, there’s no doubt that you’ll fall in love with one of these combinations. 

If you can’t find a breeder, be sure to check out your local shelters. There are lots of Shih Tzu mixes looking for love.