Full Grown Shih Tzu Poodle Mix: Size, Lifespan, Price & More

The Shih Tzu Poodle mix, also known as a Shih-Poo, is a hybrid dog breed produced by breeding the Shih Tzu and Poodle.

As a "designer dog," the Shih-Poo combines the playful personalities of both parent breeds while bringing variety to its appearance, size, grooming needs, and other traits.

But what is the Shih-Poo really like once it reaches adulthood? This guide covers everything you need to know about the fully grown Shih Tzu Poodle mix.

About the Shih-Poo Animal

The Shih-Poo is a mixed-breed dog, which means its exact traits can vary based on which parent breed traits it inherits more strongly. In general though, Shih-Poos take after both the Shih Tzu and Poodle in being small companion dogs with affectionate natures.

Like Poodles, they are energetic, intelligent, and low-shedding. From Shih Tzus they get their compact size and gentle demeanor.

Considered a "designer breed," Shih-Poos are still relatively new and not officially recognized by major kennel clubs.

Size at Full Growth

On average, a fully grown Shih-Poo will reach 8-12 inches in height and weigh 8-15 pounds. Size can vary based on whether they take more after the Shih Tzu parent (under 10 inches, 6-9 lbs) or the Miniature or Toy Poodle parent (10-15 inches, 10-15 lbs). The length of an adult Shih-Poo from neck to tail is typically 12-16 inches.

Appearance at Full Growth

In terms of appearance, adult Shih-Poos can look very Shih Tzu-like with long, silky coats and smushy faces. Or they may resemble Poodles more with curly coats and petite builds. Coat colors range from black, grey, brown, cream to apricot or mixes thereof. Most will have long, soft hair all over without any differentiation between fur and hair like Poodles have.

Personality at Full Growth

Once fully matured at 2-3 years, Shih-Poos keep the affectionate personality of both parent breeds. They thrive on human interaction and bonding with their owners. Shih-Poos are playful, lively companions happiest when indoors with loved ones. Typically friendly toward children and other pets, they have loyal natures but can be wary of strangers without early socialization. Training goes well since they are clever and eager to please.

Price

The purchase price of a Shih-Poo varies depending on breeder quality, bloodlines, and other factors. On average, adult Shih-Poos from reputable breeders can cost $600-900. Be prepared for higher costs if adopting from specialty designer breeders or through adoption networks versus shelters or rescues, where the price may be subsidized.

Food/Feeding

A fully grown Shih-Poo, like small breeds generally, only needs 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry kibble divided over 2 feedings daily depending on activity level. Look for formulations suited for toy/small breeds with the appropriate protein, fat, calcium and phosphorus ratios. Fresh water should always be available. As adults, obesity risks still apply so monitor treats and portion sizes.

Lifespan

With proper care, the average lifespan of a Shih-Poo is 12-15 years. Good nutrition, regular veterinary checkups, dental care, and preventing stressors all help maximize healthy senior years for this hybrid. As they age past 12, owners should watch out for aging risks like cognitive decline, joint problems, and other issues common to small dogs.

Health at Full Growth

Some potential health issues an adult Shih-Poo may face based on genetics include eye Problems like corneal ulcers or dry eye, dental disease like malformed teeth or bad breath, patellar luxation affecting hips or knees, respiratory issues in pets with longer coats, and allergies. Cardiac diseases also occur in Toy/small dog breeds. Comprehensive wellness exams and genetic screening of parents can reduce risks.

Care and Nutritional Needs at Full Growth

Frequent brushing 2-3 times a week with a soft brush or comb is essential to keep silky coats of adult Shih-Poos mat and shed-free. Grooming needs vary based on coat type - curly coats require more regular de-matting and cutting. Clean ears weekly to avoid yeast or infection. Trim nails as needed if not worn down naturally. Brush teeth 2-3 times a week to prevent gum disease. And provide mental stimulation like interactive toys to avoid boredom and stress.

Possible Behavioral Changes of a Fully Grown Shih-Poo

In general, a Shih-Poo’s friendly, playful personality remains consistent through adulthood. However, some behavioral changes can crop up without proper socialization and training during development:

• Separation anxiety when left alone for long periods
• Barking or howling from stress or boredom
• Clinginess or over-attachment to one person
• Aggression toward strangers if not socialized as a pup
• Feistiness from lack of proper obedience lessons

By sticking to a routine, training positively, and giving your Shih-Poo attention and exercise daily, you can help prevent unwanted behaviors as they mature.

Costing

Overall costs of fully grown Shih-Poo ownership break down as follows:

• Food: $30-50 per month for high-quality kibble
• Toys: $10-20 per month to stay mentally stimulated
• Grooming: $60-100 every 4-6 weeks for professional haircuts
• Healthcare: $200-400 annually for vaccines, checkups, dental cleanings
• Boarding/daycare: $20-40 per day if left during work/travel
• Supplies: $50-100 initially for leash, collar, crate, etc.

Plan for $150-300 per month in total ownership costs for an adult Shih-Poo's basic well-being and care.

Suitability as a Pet

The Shih-Poo can make an excellent family pet, especially for owners seeking a small, gentle companion breed. Their affectionate natures flourish in homes where they receive daily human interaction and attention from all family members. However, they are not suitable for all situations:

• Not for very active homes with young children prone to rough handling
• Not a good choice if long periods will be spent alone without human company
• High-maintenance coats require daily brushing and frequent professional grooming
• Barking could be an issue in apartments due to potential noise complaints
• Not recommended for first-time pet owners unfamiliar with toy/small breeds

With the right amount of time, care, and socialization, most Shih-Poos thrive as loving companions in homes of all kinds from apartments to houses.

Notable Characteristics of a Fully Grown Shih-Poo

To summarize the key aspects of a Shih-Poo at adulthood:

• Small size of 8-15 lbs and 8-16 inches tall
• Coat type ranges from silky hair to curly, low-shedding fur
• Friendly, playful personality devoted to owners
• Enjoys interactive play, training, and human affection
• Potential separation anxiety or stress issues without proper socialization as a puppy
• Lifespan of 12-15 years on average with good care
• Monthly ownership costs average $150-300 including food, grooming, toys, healthcare
• Not well-suited to very active family homes with young children
• High grooming needs for coats and teeth brushing 2-3 times weekly
• Intelligent and eager to please but can develop problem behaviors without training
• Best in homes spending quality time with dogs as an indoor family companion

When is a Shih-Poo Really Fully Grown?

The age at which a Shih-Poo is considered fully mature can vary slightly based on the individual dog. However, most Shih-Poo owners can expect their puppy to reach adulthood between 18-24 months old.

During the first year, Shih-Poos go through distinct puppy stages focused on socialization, training, and developing physically and mentally. From 6-12 months, the "teenage" phase brings adolescence challenges as they test boundaries and continue filling out.

By around 18 months, small hybrids like the Shih-Poo have usually cemented their own personality, completed growing into their size/weight, and are through secondary physical changes. Their coat also changes texture at this age. Between 2-3 years is when they are considered a true "adult" dog in mind and body.

So owners waiting for a fully grown Shih-Poo temperament and characteristics should give it until around the 2-year mark to see their personalities settle into placidity typical of the breed. Patience during puppyhood pays off for the affectionate adult companion to come.

Notable Full Grown Shih-Poo Size Variations

While most adult Shih-Poos reach 8-15 pounds in size, there can be notable variations based on parent breed genetics:

Shih Tzu Sized: Some Shih-Poos may take strongly after the Shih Tzu parent and mature under 10 inches tall and 6-9 pounds fully grown.

Poodle Sized: Others favor the Miniature or Toy Poodle lineage and wind up 10-15 inches and 10-15 pounds at full maturity.

Giant Shih-Poo: Rarely, a Shih-Poo may inherit genes skewing larger and reach 16-25 pounds when fully developed, entering "mixed toy breed" size territory.

Weighing puppies periodically allows breeders to estimate their adult weight range. Keeping records of parent sizes also provides guidance on a Shih-Poo's probable proportions. While variance occurs, knowledgeable owners can generally expect a petite size fitting of both parent breeds.

Is My Shih-Poo Really Fully Grown Yet?

For concerned owners unsure if their Shih-Poo has fully matured, here are some signs to look for:

• Reached consistent weight/size for 6+ months with no fluctuations
• Stopped having “puppy coats” - fur has mature texture
• Grown into full adult proportions with no remaining awkward angles
• Skeleton feels filled out with muscle, less bony prominence
• Stopped teething - all adult teeth fully in at 12-16 months
• Settled into placid Shih-Poo temperament vs exuberance of youth

If above are true and they're past 18 months with no changes, it's very likely the Shih-Poo is completely developed physically and mentally as an adult canine companion. Time and patience are needed to see their true nature emerge fully grown.

Conclusion

As a hybrid breed still taking shape, the Shih-Poo varies in traits received from parents. But in general, owners welcoming a fully grown Shih-Poo can expect a devoted, lively companion under 15 pounds with grooming and care requirements of either breed.

With proper socialization and training from an early age, they develop into placid, stable family dogs well-suited to indoor living. Their merging of the Shih Tzu and Poodle's loving natures make Shih-Poos a popular, fun-loving choice for committed pet owners.