Top Pro And Cons Of Owning A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix

There are several Pro and Cons of Owning A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix. A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is very cute – it’s understandable why you are thinking about owning one. It is also not surprising that you have found your way here.

In the early 1900s, American dog fanciers began breeding the Shih Tzu.

The first Shih Tzu was imported into America by a man named John C. Hitzelberger. He brought his own Shih Tzu to the United States in 1915.

In the 1920s, several dog fanciers began crossing the Shih Tzu with other types of dogs. This resulted in two different types of Shih Tzu. One type had longer hair while the other type had shorter hair.

These two types of Shih Tzu became known as the “long coat” and the “short coat.”

By the 1930s, there were more than 100,000 Shih Tzu in the U.S. There was also the Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix.

As you can see by its name, it is a Shih Tzu and a Pitbull Terrier. So, what makes this kind of dog great to own?

Let’s take a look!

The Pro and Cons Of Owning A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix

The Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Pit Bull Terrier. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature. This hybrid breed is also very energetic and playful.

Owning a Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is a great way to get a pet that has both the loveable qualities of a Shih Tzu, and the protective instincts of a Pit Bull Terrier, without having to pay for expensive vet bills.

The Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix can be an excellent companion if they receive proper training and socialization.

However, owning this type of dog requires some special considerations. Here are some pros and cons of owning a Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix:

Pros Of Owning A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix

Affectionate

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is one of the most loving dogs in the world. They will always want to make sure you’re happy and well taken care of.

Intelligent

These dogs have been bred over hundreds of years to be smart and loyal. They are highly trainable and intelligent.

Playful

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix loves to play and enjoy themselves. They are not aggressive towards other pets or children.

Loyal

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is extremely loyal and trustworthy. They will never leave your side and will protect you at all costs.

Energetic

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is very active and needs lots of exercise. If you don’t give them enough time to run around and play with their toys, they may become destructive.

Protective

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is fiercely protective of its family members. They will bark and growl when strangers come near their home.

Great Watchdog

This also makes the Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix a good watch dog. They will alert you whenever someone comes near your house.

Trainable

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix mix is easy to train. You just need to use positive reinforcement instead of punishment.

Healthy

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is healthy and strong. They require daily walks and plenty of fresh air and sunshine.

Loves To Have Company

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix enjoys being around people and can live with other animals if trained to do so.

Good With Kids

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is friendly towards children. They are gentle and patient with small children, especially if trained well.

Easy To Groom

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix does not shed much hair. It’s easy to brush and comb.

Low Maintenance

This means a Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix doesn’t require much grooming. All they need is brushing twice a week and regular baths a few times a year.

Affordable

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is affordable compared to other breeds. This may make it a good breed for those on a budget.

Easy To Find Homes

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is easier to adopt than many other types of dogs. As you can see, it is quite a popular breed due to it being cute and a small dog.

Can Be Trained

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is easily trained if you have the know-how. But like with all dogs, it isn’t always straight forward.

Can Be Hypoallergenic

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is said to be hypoallergenic. This means that they may not cause allergic reactions in those who suffer from allergies.

Can Be Used As Service/Therapy Dogs

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is suitable for working as a therapy dog.

Cons Of Owning A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix

High Energy Level

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is high on energy. They require more attention than other dogs. This may not be suitable for those who cannot give their dog their full attention all day.

Aggressive

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is naturally aggressive. They can be dangerous if not properly socialized. This may not be the case if you own a dog which has been properly socialized and cared for.

Noisy

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix makes a lot of noise. They are loud and boisterous – but again, this is a good reason why they will make a good guard dog.

They will bark at everything they hear, even when you cannot hear it.

Sheds Hair

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix sheds a lot of hair. Their coats need to be brushed each week.

You may also find that you will need to vacuum up after your dog every day.

Needs Frequent Grooming

This means a Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix requires frequent grooming. Their coats need to get washed every couple of months to keep it looking healthy.

Not Recommended For Apartment Living

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix needs access to a garden, and most apartments do not have them. They are high energy dogs he will like a backyard to run around in.

Does Not Tolerate Heat Well

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix has trouble tolerating extreme temperatures. They should always have access to shade and water.

Does Not Like Cold Weather

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix prefers warm climates. They do best in areas where there is an abundance of trees and grass.

Can Be Stubborn

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is very stubborn. They may take time to learn new things.

Does Not Respond Well To Training

This means that despite the fact they are able to be trained, they can be difficult to. They tend to ignore commands or disobey their owner, but over time they can overcome this.

Can Be Destructive

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix can be destructive. They love chewing everything around them. This means that it may be difficult to leave them alone at home.

To avoid this, you will need to give them the attention that they want, as well as take them on a walk to get rid of the energy that they have built up.

May Be Noisy

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix can bark loudly. They also howl at night.

Again, this could mean that they will be good at alerting you if strangers are nearby, making them a fantastic guard dog choice.

Does Not Play Well With Cats

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix will not play well with cats. They are territorial and protective of their space.

Whilst they do get on with other animals, it might be worth thinking twice about owning a Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix if you already have a cat.

Is A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Aggressive?

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is naturally aggressive towards people and animals. They are territorial and defensive by nature.

If you want your Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix to become less aggressive, it’s important to socialize them early on.

They must be exposed to different types of people and animals so that they can develop a tolerance for them.

How To Train A Shih Tzu Puppy

Training a Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is similar to training any puppy.

You must start off slowly when teaching basic obedience commands such as sit, down, stay, come, etc.

Once the basics are mastered, you can move onto more advanced commands such as heel, shake hands, fetch, etc.

It is important to reward your Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix whenever he obeys a command. This way, he learns that being obedient brings him rewards.

When Should I Get My Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix Spayed/Neutered?

It is strongly advised that all puppies should be spayed or neutered before they reach 12 months of age.

The reason this is important is that male puppies often grow into adult males who exhibit unwanted behavior such as roaming, fighting, marking territory, and even mounting other dogs.

Female puppies usually grow up to be female dogs who show signs of aggression, including barking, nipping, and biting.

What Are Some Common Problems With Shih Tzus?

Shih Tzus are known for having long hair which makes grooming a chore. Their coats need regular brushing and combing to keep them clean and free from tangles.

Shih Tzus are prone to skin problems such as dry skin, allergies, and ear infections. These conditions require proper treatment.

Shih Tzu puppies have an increased risk of developing hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia causes pain in the hips and legs.

Early detection of this condition is key to preventing permanent damage.

What Are Some Common Problems With Pitbull Terriers?

Pit Bulls are prone to many health issues such as respiratory problems, heart disease, eye disorders, and dental problems.

Pit bulls are highly susceptible to genetic diseases like Von Willebrand Disease (VWD) and von Recklinghausen’s disease.

VWD affects blood clotting while von Recklinghausen’s disease causes tumors to form in various parts of the body.

Final Thoughts

A Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is a great dog to own, but can be a handful if you have never owned a dog before.

They might also not be suitable if you have a young family to care for. Whilst your child might think he or she is being playful, an aggressive Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix might not understand and cause harm.

Having said that, a Shih Tzu Pitbull Mix is a great family pet for older children who understand how to care for a dog.

They are loveable, and once fully trained, can be a fantastic guard dog who brings so much joy to a family.

Learn more about Shih Tzus here. If you are looking for Shih Tzus breeders you can check them out.