Facts & Origin
The Care-Tzu - a hybrid breed
The Cairn Terrier and Shih Tzu mix are a popular mixed breed. These adorable dogs are medium-sized, with curly or straight, silky coats. The mix is smart, playful and loves to please their humans. They are ideal for families as they are very social, adaptive and loyal and can also serve as a guard dog. These two breeds can be very similar, but they also have differences. The Cairn Terrier is energetic and lively, while Shih Tzus are calmer, more relaxed and affectionate. Both breeds need a lot of attention and activity. If you give them this, they will be great companions that everyone will love.
| Alternate Name | Shairn Terrier |
| Origin | Scotland - Tibet |
| Life expectancy | 10 - 16 years |
| Care requirements | low-maintenance - high-maintenance |
| Activity level | average - low |
| FCI group | not recognised |
| AKC group | not recognised |
| KC group | not recognised |
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Possible character traits of the Care-Tzu
Cairn Terriers and Shih Tzue are both charming, lovable, and good-natured dog breeds. When they mate, an incredibly heartwarming mixed breed often results. This Cairn Terrier and Shih Tzu mix breed is charming, alert, sensitive, friendly and loyal.
This mix is a bundle of energy and has a natural curiosity about the world. They are quite bright and often very active. They are good-natured and friendly companions who enjoy meeting people or other dogs at home. They love to interact with their humans and should have an active recreational activity at least one day a week.
It is important that this breed be challenged mentally and physically on a regular basis. They benefit from a balanced diet and support to maintain a healthy weight. This breed may need daily brushing to keep combs at bay.
As for character, this mix is lively and gentle. They are very playful and like to have fun. They like to bring laughter and joy to the family. They are intelligent and pick up training lessons very easily.
This breed is characterized by a stable and confident attitude. They are friendly and accept experiences with new people or changes without being overly anxious or fearful.
If you are looking for a loyal, faithful, and playful companion that will give you love and fun, consider a Cairn Terrier and Shih Tzu mix. This breed is benign, lovable and a loyal companion that is there for all family members.
Character
Usage
Health and breeding information
Breed diseases of the Care-Tzu
Cairn Terrier Shih Tzu mixes, also known as Shairn Terriers, are a popular and lovable cross between Cairn Terriers and Shih Tzus. The basis for this cross is the sweet, small Shih Tzu and the fearless, bright Cairn Terrier. These tiny crosses are very bright, but also have social skills and are ideal for families with children because of their energy. Although they are very lovable and undemanding, there are a few diseases that are commonly seen in Cairn Terrier Shih Tzu crossbreeds.
The first is Hip Dysplasia, a common condition in small dogs. This condition occurs when the dog's hip joints are not properly formed, leading to pain and joint discomfort. To avoid developing hip dysplasia, Cairn Terrier Shih Tzu mixes need to be exercised regularly and not carried or lifted excessively.
Another common condition in Cairn Terrier Shih Tzu mixes is allergy to dust mites. Many of these dogs are allergic to a specific protein that is commonly found in the air in most. If the dog has dust mite allergies, it may experience symptoms such as chronic itching, redness of the skin and hair loss. The dog's veterinarian may prescribe an immunotherapy program to help alleviate symptoms.
With a good diet and regular exercise, Cairn Terrier Shih Tzu mixes have a long, happy lifespan ahead of them. However, it is important that owners of these crossbreeds present their dogs to the veterinarian regularly so that potential diseases can be detected and treated early.
Breed characteristics of the Care-Tzu
A Cairn Terrier Shih Tzu mix is a small, compact dog with a distinctive charm. They have a light, curly coat with a color that can vary from light brown to blackish brown or even gray. They have relatively short legs, thick paws and a fluffy, woolly mane. Their weight is between 4 and 7kg and their height is between 25 cm and 35 cm.
What does this mixed breed look like?
Most Cairn Terrier Shih Tzu mixes have a very soft, close-fitting coat, often of medium length. Often the coat is light wavy or curly. They have a variety of colors that are usually a combination of many different shades, from chocolate brown to beige to white stripes. The underside of the dogs is often white, while the head region and back has a brownish maroon coloration. Some Cairn Terrier Shih Tzu mixes may also be black or sable. The tail of the dog usually has a lighter coloring than the rest of the body.
| Fur length | short - medium |
| Fur | rough-haired - flat coated |
| Ear shape | Standing Ears - Floppy Ear |
| Tail | short - rolled up |
| Anatomy | strong, hefty, rugged |
| Size ♀ | 20 - 30 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 4 - 8 kg |
| Size ♂ | 20 - 33 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 4 - 8 kg |
| Suitable For | Children, Seniors, Beginner, Seniors |
Known Diseases
Joint problems
Especially due to overweight, joint problems can occur in dogs.
Eye infections
Chronic eye infections can be very painful in dogs and can be treated with medication. In rare cases, the cornea must be treated.
Breathing problems
Dogs with shortened muzzles can often experience respiratory problems.
Patellar luxation
Patellar luxation is the term used to describe a displacement of the kneecap, which is one of the most common causes of lameness in dogs.
Knee injuries
Some breeds, unfortunately, especially suffer from knee injuries of various kinds.
FAQ
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This mixed breed has a medium-sized, slender and athletic appearance with a soft, long coat. It is extremely affectionate, loving and child-friendly.
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Positive reinforcement should be used during training. These are easy techniques where the animal is rewarded for any acceptable behavior. The dog should learn basic commands such as sit, stay, down and come.
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This hybrid breed requires a balanced diet based on its individual needs. Daily feed intake should usually be limited to ½ to 1 cup per day.
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Since this hybrid breed is very affectionate, it is expected that it likes to spend time with its people and live peacefully with other animals. She is alert and intelligent and can respond very well to commands.
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To maintain the health and appearance of the Care-Tzus, it needs regular grooming, including brushing and a bath, as needed. Dental care is also important to prevent tooth damage and bad breath.
