Facts & Origin
What is a Smooth Fo-Tzu?
The Smooth Fo-Tzu is a hybrid dog created by crossing a Smooth Fox Terrier and a Shih Tzu. Both breeds have a long and interesting history.
History and origin
The Smoothhair Fox Terrier originated in England and was bred for fox hunting. The breed is known for its lively and enthusiastic nature. The Shih Tzu is an ancient breed from China that was primarily bred as a lap dog and is known for its friendly and loving personality. The combination of these two breeds makes the Smooth Fo-Tzu an excellent companion and family dog.
| Alternate Name | - |
| Origin | UK - Tibet |
| Life expectancy | 10 - 16 years |
| Care requirements | low-maintenance - high-maintenance |
| Activity level | average to high - low |
| FCI group | not recognised |
| AKC group | not recognised |
| KC group | not recognised |
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Personality and temperament
A mix between a Smooth Fox Terrier and a Shih Tzu, the Smooth Fo-Tzu has a lively and joyful personality. They are known for their playful nature and curiosity. They love to be the center of attention and are always ready for a new adventure. Thanks to their friendly and outgoing nature, they get along well with children and other pets.
This mixed breed is an excellent family dog that appreciates a lot of activity and attention. With proper care and attention, this lovable and enthusiastic little dog will be a loyal and long-lasting companion.
Character
Usage
Health and breeding information
Grooming and health
Although the Smooth Fo-Tzu's coat is smooth, it requires regular grooming to prevent knots and matting. It is recommended that they be brushed at least once a week. Like all dogs, they also need regular dental and nail care. In addition, they love to be challenged physically and mentally, so daily walks and games should be part of their routine.
Like most mixed breed dogs, the Smooth Fo-Tzu can inherit genetic health problems from their parent breeds. Common concerns include hip dysplasia, eye problems and allergies. Regular vet visits for preventative care are crucial to ensure they stay healthy and happy.
The average life expectancy of a Smooth Fo-Tzu is 12 to 15 years, depending on care and health.
Breeding and Purchase
Choosing a responsible breeder is key to ensuring that your Smooth Fo-Tzu is as genetically healthy as possible. A good breeder should be willing to show health certificates and answer questions about the health of the parents and the puppies. It is also advisable to choose a breeder who offers a proper socialization program for their puppies.
What does this mixed breed look like?
The Smooth Fo-Tzu takes on the best characteristics of its parent breeds and has an attractive appearance. Generally, they have a smooth-haired, medium-length coat that is neither as short as the Fox Terrier's nor as long and silky as the Shih Tzu's.
Their coat colors vary and can be white, black, brown, cream or a mixture of these colors. Their facial expressions are often happy and alert, which emphasizes their playful and affectionate nature.
Known Diseases
Eye diseases
Often occur with allergies and intolerances.
Ataxia
Ataxia (from Greek ἀταξία ataxia 'disorder' 'irregularity') is a generic term in medicine for various disorders of movement coordination. Ataxia can occur even when there is no paralysis (paresis), that is, when there is normal muscle strength.
Myelopathy
Degenerative myelopathies of dogs are a series of slowly progressing neurological diseases associated with destruction of the spinal cord. These diseases are associated with slowly progressive movement disorders of the hindquarters.
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 Smooth Fo-Tzu is a cross between two breeds, the Smooth Fox Terrier and the Shih Tzu.
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Smooth Fo-Tzus are intelligent and friendly dogs that enjoy interacting with other dogs and people. They can be very energetic, but also calm creatures.
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These mixed breeds need regular coat, teeth and nail care. They also need regular vaccination and deworming.
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This mixed breed can live up to 15 years.
