Facts & Origin
Chihuahua and Shih Tzu in one
The ShiChi is a popular designer hybrid breed that is the result of crossing a Shih Tzu with a Chihuahua. Both parent breeds are small, compact and known as lovable companion dogs - each with their own character: while the Shih Tzu is appreciated for its gentle, calm and friendly nature, the Chihuahua often has a self-confident, lively and courageous nature.
Selective breeding of the ShiChi began in the last two decades, mainly in the USA, with the aim of creating a small, charming companion dog with a balanced temperament - ideal for city dwellers, seniors or families looking for a good-natured but alert small dog.
Criticism of the ShiChi
As with many hybrid breeds, there is also criticism of the ShiChi, particularly from the point of view of animal welfare and experienced breeders. As the ShiChi is not an officially recognized breed, there are no set standards for appearance, temperament or health. This means that puppies from one litter can differ greatly depending on which of the parents' characteristics are dominant.
Another point of criticism concerns breeding practices: in some cases, ShiChis are bred from dubious matings without health checks, which increases the risk of hereditary diseases or behavioral problems. In addition, the ShiChi is often marketed as easy to care for and "ideal for everyone" - without taking into account that the Chihuahua part in particular can also bring stubbornness, nervousness or pronounced territorial behavior.
Anyone deciding on a ShiChi should therefore not only be guided by the cute appearance, but should also be prepared to take a close look at the nature of both original breeds.
Suitability of the ShiChi
Despite the criticism, the ShiChi - if bred responsibly and kept appropriately - is a lovable, often very affectionate companion dog that fits well into various lifestyles. Due to its small size, it is ideal for living in an apartment, but also loves to roam in the garden or be out and about with its owner.
ShiChis are usually people-oriented, cuddly and lively, but can also show a certain willfulness or vigilance - especially if the Chihuahua character dominates. They need clear, patient leadership and loving but consistent training.
The ShiChi is suitable for:
Single people or couples who want to be close to their dog
Seniors who want a calm but watchful companion
Small families where the dog is not overwhelmed
People who are willing to devote time regularly to care, attention and activity
The ShiChi is less suitable for very small children or busy households - despite its size, it has a strong personality and can quickly feel overwhelmed.
| Alternate Name | Shichi, Chi Tzu, Chihuahua Shih Tzu Mix |
| Origin | Mexico - Tibet |
| Life expectancy | 10 - 20 years |
| Care requirements | low-maintenance - high-maintenance |
| Activity level | 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 ShiChi
The ShiChi is generally a lively, loving and loyal little dog with a lot of personality. It combines the tenderness and calm disposition of the Shih Tzu with the liveliness and self-confidence of the Chihuahua - a mixture that is very appealing to many people.
Shih Chis are often very people-oriented and love to be close to their caregiver. They are considered affectionate, cuddly and attentive, but can also be alert, suspicious of strangers and sometimes a little possessive - especially if they have a strong Chihuahua influence.
Their behavior can vary greatly: Some ShiChis are rather calm and composed, others lively and playful. What they almost always have in common is a clear preference for company - they don't like to be alone and need emotional closeness.
With loving but consistent training, they can be easily integrated into everyday life. Early socialization and clear boundaries help to keep small idiosyncrasies such as jealousy or barking in balance.
Usage
Health and breeding information
Possible diseases of the ShiChi
As with all mixed breeds, ShiChi can also suffer from health problems in both parents. It is therefore important to ensure that the parents are bred responsibly and that their health has been checked.
Possible diseases in the ShiChi:
Patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap), common in small dogs
Dental problems, such as tartar or tooth loss due to narrow jaws
Breathing problems if a short nasal bridge was inherited from the Shih Tzu
Heart problems, occasionally occurring in Chihuahuas
Eye diseases, e.g. dry eyes, lacrimation or corneal injuries
Allergies or skin problems, e.g. due to food or environmental factors
Sensitivity to cold, especially with short fur
A good diet, regular veterinary check-ups and dental care, as well as a stress-free everyday life contribute significantly to ShiChi's health.
This is what a ShiChi can look like
As it is a mixed breed, the appearance of the ShiChi can vary greatly - depending on which genes are more prevalent. Most ShiChis are small and petite, with a shoulder height of around 15 to 25 cm and a weight of between 2 and 5 kg.
The build is usually compact but elegant, with a slightly rounded head and a short to medium-long muzzle. The eyes are large, dark and expressive, and the ears can be either erect, drooping or semi-erect, depending on their shape.
The coat can be short, medium or long - smooth, slightly wavy or silky - depending on whether the Chihuahua or the Shih Tzu dominates. Many ShiChis have an easily groomed coat type that requires regular brushing to prevent matting.
The coat colors are very diverse: white, cream, brown, black, grey, gold, often multi-colored or with a mask.
Overall, the ShiChi is an expressive, charming small dog that stands out due to its mixture of gentleness and temperament - a small dog with a big heart and lots of character.
| Fur length | medium |
| Fur | flat coated |
| Ear shape | Standing Ears - Floppy Ear |
| Tail | lang - rolled up |
| Anatomy | slim, rugged |
| Size ♀ | 15 - 28 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 2 - 7 kg |
| Size ♂ | 15 - 28 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 2 - 7 kg |
| Suitable For | Children, Seniors, Beginner, Seniors |
Known Diseases
Eye diseases
Often occur with allergies and intolerances.
Hypoglycemia
If an insulin dose was overdosed or accidentally administered twice, the dog may experience hypoglycemia.
Tartar
If dogs don't get a good food or sugary food, tartar can quickly appear.
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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A ShiChi is a hybrid dog breed created by crossing a Chihuahua with a Shih Tzu. These mixed-breed dogs are sometimes also referred to as Chi-Tzu or Shih-Chi.
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Chihuahua and Shih Tzu mixes can look very different, depending on which parent breed they resemble more. However, they are usually small dogs with long, fluffy fur. They often have the large, round eyes of a Shih Tzu and can have the characteristic "apple-head" shape of a Chihuahua.
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ShiChis are usually small dogs, although their exact size can vary depending on which parent breed they more closely mimic. As a rule, these mixed breed dogs weigh between 3 and 5 kg.
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Chihuahua and Shih Tzu mixes need relatively little exercise and can also live in small spaces such as apartments. They need to be brushed daily so that their long fur does not become matted.
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Yes, ShiChis can be good family dogs. They usually get along well with children and other pets and are not known to be aggressive.
