6 Things I Wish I Knew Before Getting My Shih Poo

When I first brought home my Shih Poo, Max, I thought I knew everything about designer dogs. Boy, was I wrong! While these adorable pups combine the best of Shih Tzus and Toy Poodles, there are some things you should know before welcoming one into your home. Here's what I've learned from my experience:

1. They're Not Just Lap Dogs – They're Family Members

I remember thinking my Shih Poo would be content just sitting on my lap all day. While Max does love his cuddle time, he's also surprisingly playful and energetic. These dogs have this amazing ability to match your energy level – they'll be your workout buddy when you're active and your perfect couch companion when you're ready to relax.

Pro tip: Keep a small stash of toys in different rooms. I learned this the hard way when Max started "borrowing" my socks as toys!

2. Training Takes Patience, But It's Worth It

The first few weeks with Max were challenging. While he's incredibly smart (thanks to his Poodle genes), he also inherited the Shih Tzu's stubborn streak. I found that short, positive training sessions worked best. Start with basic commands like "sit" and "stay" before moving to more complex tricks.

What worked for me:

• 5-minute training sessions, 2-3 times daily
• High-value treats (Max goes crazy for small pieces of cooked chicken)
• Consistent commands and hand signals

3. They're Perfect for Apartment Living, But Need Their Space

Living in a city apartment, I was worried about getting a dog. But Max proved to be the perfect urban companion. At 12 pounds, he's small enough to be comfortable in limited spaces but sturdy enough to handle city life.

Important considerations:

• Create a designated "safe space" for your pup (I use a cozy crate with a soft bed)
• Keep breakable items out of tail-wagging range
• Consider a pet carrier for longer outings – Max gets tired after about 30 minutes of walking

4. Grooming is Non-Negotiable

I'll be honest – I underestimated the grooming needs. Max's coat is a beautiful mix of his parents' traits, but it requires regular maintenance. I've developed a simple routine that works for us:

• Daily brushing (5 minutes in the morning while I have my coffee)
• Monthly professional grooming
• Weekly ear cleaning and nail trimming

Money-saving tip: Learn to do basic grooming at home. I invested in a good quality brush and nail clippers, which has saved me hundreds in grooming costs.

5. Health Issues to Watch For

Through my experience and conversations with other Shih Poo owners, I've learned to watch for these common health concerns:

• Dental issues (I brush Max's teeth twice weekly with dog-friendly toothpaste)
• Breathing problems in hot weather (I keep our home cool and avoid midday walks in summer)
• Eye problems (regular vet check-ups are crucial)

Emergency fund tip: I set aside $50 monthly for unexpected vet bills. It's come in handy more than once!

6. They Need Your Company

The biggest lesson I've learned? Shih Poos are social butterflies who need companionship. When I first got Max, I was working long hours, and he developed separation anxiety. I had to make some lifestyle changes to accommodate his needs.

What worked for us:

• Doggy daycare on long workdays
• A consistent daily routine
• Leaving the TV on when I'm out (Max loves nature documentaries!)

Final Thoughts

If you're considering a Shih Poo, be prepared for a loyal, loving companion who will become an integral part of your family. They're perfect for:

• First-time dog owners (with proper research)
• Families with older children
• People who work from home
• Seniors looking for a gentle companion

Remember, every Shih Poo is unique. While these tips come from my experience with Max, your pup might have different needs. The key is to be observant, patient, and willing to adapt to your dog's personality.

Would you like to share your Shih Poo experiences? I'd love to hear what worked (or didn't work) for you and your furry friend!