Facts & Origin
Pomeranian and Shih Tzu in one
The Shiranian is a hybrid breed, the result of crossing a Shih Tzu with a Pomeranian (Miniature Spitz). Both parents are among the most popular small companion dogs in the world, which is why the combination of their characteristics quickly attracted interest. The aim was to create a small, charming family dog that combined the fluffy appearance of the Miniature Spitz with the affectionate, friendly nature of the Shih Tzu.
Targeted breeding began primarily in North America, where designer dogs with a cute appearance and family character are particularly in demand. The Shiranian embodies exactly this mix: compact, playful and people-oriented.
Name synonyms for the Shiranian
The name Shiranian is the most common name. Alternatively, the breed is also referred to as Shih-Pom, Pom-Tzu or Pomeranian Shih Tzu Mix. Despite the different names, the same crossbreed is always meant.
Criticism of the Shiranian
As with many small designer dogs, there is also criticism of the Shiranian, especially with regard to the health risks of over-typed breeding. Particularly if the dogs are bred to be extremely short-nosed or have an excessively fine coat, this can lead to breathing problems, eye irritation or grooming requirements that are quickly underestimated.
Suitability of the Shiranian
The Shiranian is well suited to people who want a loving, small companion dog that likes to stay close to its caregiver and thrives on attention, play and affection. He is suitable for older people as well as in quiet families - provided that attention is paid to clear training and sufficient activity.
Despite its small size, the Shiranian is often lively and curious. It not only wants to be stroked, but also mentally stimulated. If he is encouraged but not spoiled, he will prove to be a happy, loyal and well-integrated companion with a lot of personality.
| Alternate Name | Shih-Pom, Pom-Tzu, Pomeranian Shih Tzu Mix |
| Origin | Tibet - Germany |
| Life expectancy | 10 - 16 years |
| Care requirements | 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 Shiranian
The Shiranian is usually an affectionate, happy and sociable little dog. It actively seeks to be close to its caregivers and rarely likes to be alone. Many Shiranians show a charming mixture of the gentle, patient nature of the Shih Tzu and the playful, lively temperament of the Pomeranian.
Despite his size, he is often alert and quick to make a noise when he notices something - making him a small but attentive house guardian. He can be trained well with loving consistency, but needs clear boundaries as he otherwise tends to want to get his own way. Early socialization will help him to be friendly and confident towards strangers and other animals.
Character
Usage
Health and breeding information
Possible diseases of the Shiranian
Some typical small dog diseases can occur in the Shiranian. These include dental problems, as small dogs often have a narrow jaw. There is also a risk of patellar luxation (an instability of the kneecaps), breathing problems if they inherit very short noses, as well as lacrimation or dry eyes, which are more common in the Shih Tzu.
The dense, often fluffy coat needs regular grooming to avoid matting and skin irritation. If you underestimate the amount of grooming required, you run the risk of health problems caused by poor coat hygiene.
This is what a Shiranian can look like
The appearance of the Shiranian is extremely cute and fluffy. It is usually small and compact, about 18 to 28 cm tall, weighing between 3 and 6 kilograms.
Its coat is usually very soft, dense and of medium to long length, often with a small lion's mane effect or a bushy tail that curls over its back. In terms of color, there are hardly any limits - from white, cream and apricot to black, grey, brown and piebald variations.
The facial expression is friendly, often slightly roundish, with dark, expressive eyes. The ears can be either drooping like the Shih Tzu or semi-erect like the Miniature Spitz.
| Fur length | medium - long |
| Fur | flat coated |
| Ear shape | Floppy Ear - Standing Ears |
| Tail | rolled up |
| Anatomy | rugged, slim, dainty |
| Size ♀ | 12 - 28 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 2 - 7 kg |
| Size ♂ | 17 - 28 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 2 - 7 kg |
| Suitable For | Beginner, Seniors, Seniors |
Known Diseases
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.
Hip dysplasia (HD)
Hip dysplasia (HD) is a genetic condition in dogs where the hip joint is not shaped properly. This leads to pain, stiffness and restricted movement.
Elbow dysplasia (ED)
Elbow joint dysplasia is a chronic disease complex of the elbow joint of fast growing dog breeds.
Numbness
Often occurs in old age.
Heart disease
Can occur frequently in dogs and can sometimes be treated with medication.
FAQ
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The life expectancy of a Pomeranian-Shih Tzu mix is 12 to 16 years.
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An adult Pomeranian and Shih Tzu mix weighs between 3-5 kg.
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The size of an adult Shiranian is 20-30 cm.
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Pomeranian and Shih Tzu mixes can be black, white, brown, cream or silver.
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The coat of a Pomeranian and Shih Tzu mix is fluffy and dense.
