Shichon

The Shichon is a mixed breed dog–a cross between the Shih Tzu and the Bichon Frise dog breeds. Affectionate, intelligent, and outgoing, these pups inherited some of the best qualities from both of their parents.
Shichons go by a few other names including the Shih Tzu-Bichon mix, Zuchon, and Teddy Bear dog. Despite their unfortunate status as a designer breed, you can find these mixed breed dogs in shelters as well, so remember to adopt! Don’t shop!
These sweet pups are rather adaptable and are fit for apartment living, households with families, and single-person homes. They are the perfect companion animal for seniors, and their personalities and temperament make them excellent therapy dogs. If you want a companion who will follow you around your home and also protect their loved ones, the Shichon may be the right dog for you!
See below for all Shichon facts and mixed dog breed characteristics!
Shichon Mixed Dog Breed Pictures
Breed Characteristics:
Adaptability
Adapts Well To Apartment Living
5
Contrary to popular belief, small size doesn't necessarily an apartment dog make. Plenty of small dogs are too high-energy and yappy for life in a high-rise. Being quiet, low energy, fairly calm indoors, and polite with the other residents are all good qualities in an apartment dog. And you can find an awesome crate for your dog here to give them a little more personal space in your apartment.
Good For Novice Owners
4
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Dogs who are highly sensitive, independent thinking, or assertive may be harder for a first-time dog parent to manage. You'll get your best match if you take your dog-owning experience into account as you choose your new pooch.
If you're new to dog parenting, take a look at 101 Dog Tricks and read up on how to train your dog!
You may also want to consider adopting a senior dog, as they tend to be less demanding of your time and energy. You can keep your senior dog active well into old age by providing them with joint supplements to fight the symptoms of arthritis. Adding Glyde Mobility Chews to their routine can help their joints stay healthy.
Sensitivity Level
4
Some dogs will let a stern reprimand roll off their backs, while others take even a dirty look to heart. Low-sensitivity dogs, also called "easygoing," "tolerant," "resilient," and even "thick-skinned," can better handle a noisy, chaotic household, a louder or more assertive owner, and an inconsistent or variable routine. Do you have young kids, throw lots of dinner parties, play in a garage band, or lead a hectic life? Go with a low-sensitivity dog.
Tolerates Being Alone
1
Some breeds bond very closely with their family and are more prone to worry or even panic when left alone by their owner. An anxious dog can be very destructive--barking, whining, chewing, and otherwise causing mayhem. These breeds do best when a family member is home during the day or if you can take the dog to work.
Tolerates Cold Weather
2
Breeds with very short coats and little or no undercoat or body fat, such as Greyhounds, are vulnerable to the cold. Dogs with a low cold tolerance need to live inside in cool climates and should have a jacket or sweater for chilly walks. You can find a great jacket for your dog here!
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Tolerates Hot Weather
2
Dogs with thick, double coats are more vulnerable to overheating. So are breeds with short noses, like Bulldogs or Pugs, since they can't pant as well to cool themselves off. If you want a heat-sensitive breed, your dog will need to stay indoors with you on warm or humid days, and you'll need to be extra cautious about exercising your dog in the heat.
All Around Friendliness
Affectionate With Family
5
Some breeds are independent and aloof, even if they've been raised by the same person since puppyhood; others bond closely to one person and are indifferent to everyone else; and some shower the whole family with affection. Breed isn't the only factor that goes into affection levels; dogs who were raised inside a home with people around feel more comfortable with humans and bond more easily.
Treats can help the bonding process go more smoothly. Try giving your dog Glyde Mobility Chews to help them see you as a provider and to keep their joints healthy!
Kid-Friendly
5
Being gentle with children, sturdy enough to handle the heavy-handed pets and hugs they can dish out, and having a blasé attitude toward running, screaming children are all traits that make a kid-friendly dog. You may be surprised by who's on that list: Fierce-looking Boxers are considered good with children, as are American Staffordshire Terriers (which are considered Pit Bulls). Small, delicate, and potentially snappy dogs such as Chihuahuas aren't always so family-friendly.
**All dogs are individuals. Our ratings are generalizations, and they're not a guarantee of how any breed or individual dog will behave. Dogs from any breed can be good with children based on their past experiences, training on how to get along with kids, and personality. No matter what the breed or breed type, all dogs have strong jaws, sharp pointy teeth, and may bite in stressful circumstances. Young children and dogs of any breed should always be supervised by an adult and never left alone together, period.
Dog Friendly
4
Friendliness toward dogs and friendliness toward humans are two completely different things. Some dogs may attack or try to dominate other dogs, even if they're love-bugs with people; others would rather play than fight; and some will turn tail and run. Breed isn't the only factor. Dogs who lived with their littermates and mother until at least six to eight weeks of age and who spent lots of time playing with other dogs during puppyhood, are more likely to have good canine social skills.
Friendly Toward Strangers
4
Stranger-friendly dogs will greet guests with wagging tails and nuzzles; others are shy, indifferent, or even aggressive. However, no matter what the breed, a dog who was socialized and exposed to lots of different types, ages, sizes, and shapes of people as a puppy will respond better to strangers as an adult. Remember that even friendly dogs should stay on a good, strong leash like this one in public!
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Health And Grooming Needs
Amount Of Shedding
1
If you're going to share your home with a dog, you'll need to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothes and in your house. However, shedding does vary greatly among the breeds. Some dogs shed year-round, some "blow" seasonally, some do both, and some shed hardly at all. If you're a neatnik, you'll need to either pick a low-shedding breed or relax your standards. To help keep your home a little cleaner, you can find a great de-shedding tool here!
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Drooling Potential
1
Drool-prone dogs may drape ropes of slobber on your arm and leave big, wet spots on your clothes when they come over to say hello. If you've got a laid-back attitude toward slobber, fine; but if you're a neatnik, you may want to choose a dog who rates low in the drool department.
Easy To Groom
4
Some breeds are brush-and-go dogs; others require regular bathing, clipping, and other grooming just to stay clean and healthy. Consider whether you have the time and patience for a dog who needs a lot of grooming, or the money to pay someone else to do it.
General Health
4
Due to poor breeding practices, some breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, such as hip dysplasia. This doesn't mean that every dog of that breed will develop those diseases; it just means that they're at an increased risk.
If you're adopting a puppy, it's a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed you're interested in. You may also want to ask if your shelter or rescue has information about the physical health of your potential pup's parents and other relatives.
Many health problems are related to digestion and issues in the gut. Adding Bernie's Perfect Poop digestion support treats to your dog's routine can help your pet feel better and improve their overall health!
Potential For Weight Gain
3
Some breeds have hearty appetites and tend to put on weight easily. As in humans, being overweight can cause health problems in dogs. If you pick a breed that's prone to packing on pounds, you'll need to limit treats, make sure they get enough exercise, and measure out their daily food servings into regular meals rather than leaving food out all the time.
Ask your vet about your dog's diet and what they recommend for feeding your pooch to keep them at a healthy weight. If your dog has tummy troubles, adding Bernie's Perfect Poop digestion support treats to their diet can help your dog feel better and improve their overall health!
Size
2
Dogs come in all sizes, from the world's smallest pooch, the Chihuahua, to the towering Great Dane, how much space a dog takes up is a key factor in deciding if they're compatible with you and your living space. Large dog breeds might seem overpowering and intimidating, but some of them are incredibly sweet! Take a look and find the right sized dog for you!
Many larger dogs are prone to joint issues. Adding Glyde Mobility Chews to their routine can help their joints stay healthy.
Trainability
Easy To Train
3
Easy-to-train dogs are more adept at forming an association between a prompt (such as the word "sit"), an action (sitting), and a consequence (getting a treat) very quickly. Other dogs need more time, patience, and repetition during training.
Many breeds are intelligent but approach training with a "What's in it for me?" attitude, in which case you'll need to use rewards and games to teach them to want to comply with your requests. Here are some great treats that can actually improve your dog's digestion to get you started!
Intelligence
4
Dogs who were bred for jobs that require decision making, intelligence, and concentration, such as herding livestock, need to exercise their brains, just as dogs who were bred to run all day need to exercise their bodies. If they don't get the mental stimulation they need, they'll make their own work--usually with projects you won't like, such as digging and chewing. Obedience training and interactive dog toys are good ways to give a dog a brain workout, as are dog sports and careers, such as agility and search and rescue.
Potential For Mouthiness
1
Common in most breeds during puppyhood and in Retriever breeds at all ages, mouthiness means a tendency to nip, chew, and play-bite (a soft, fairly painless bite that doesn't puncture the skin). Mouthy dogs are more likely to use their mouths to hold or "herd" their human family members, and they need training to learn that it's fine to gnaw on chew toys, but not on people. Mouthy breeds tend to really enjoy a game of fetch, as well as a good chew on a toy that's been stuffed with kibble and treats.
Prey Drive
1
- (Picture Credit: Haydn West - PA Images/PA Images via Getty Images)
Dogs who were bred to hunt, such as Terriers, have an inborn desire to chase--and sometimes kill--other animals. Anything whizzing by, such as cats, squirrels, and perhaps even cars, can trigger that instinct. Dogs who like to chase need to be leashed or kept in a fenced area when outdoors, and you'll need a high, secure fence in your yard. These breeds generally aren't a good fit for homes with smaller pets that can look like prey, such as cats, hamsters, or small dogs. Breeds that were originally used for bird hunting, on the other hand, generally won't chase, but you'll probably have a hard time getting their attention when there are birds flying by.
Tendency To Bark Or Howl
2
Some breeds sound off more often than others. When choosing a breed, think about how often the dog vocalizes with barks or howls. If you're considering a hound, would you find their trademark howls musical or maddening? If you're considering a watchdog, will a city full of suspicious "strangers" put your pup on permanent alert? Will the local wildlife literally drive your dog wild? Do you live in housing with noise restrictions? Do you have neighbors nearby? Then you may wish to choose a quieter dog.
Wanderlust Potential
1
Some breeds are more free-spirited than others. Nordic dogs such as Siberian Huskies were bred to range long distances, and given the chance, they'll take off after anything that catches their interest. And many hounds simply must follow their noses--or that bunny that just ran across the path--even if it means leaving you behind.
Physical Needs
Energy Level
4
High-energy dogs are always ready and waiting for action. Originally bred to perform a canine job of some sort, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding livestock, they have the stamina to put in a full workday. They need a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation, and they're more likely to spend time jumping, playing, and investigating any new sights and smells.
Low-energy dogs are the canine equivalent of a couch potato, content to doze the day away. When picking a breed, consider your own activity level and lifestyle, and think about whether you'll find a frisky, energetic dog invigorating or annoying.
Your dog's energy level can also be affected by health issues. Adding Bernie's Perfect Poop digestion support treats to your pet's diet can help them feel better and improve their overall health!
Intensity
2
A vigorous dog may or may not have high energy, but everything they do, they do with vigor: they strain on the leash (until you train them not to), try to plow through obstacles, and even eats and drinks with great big gulps. These dynamos need lots of training to learn good manners, and may not be the best fit for a home with young kids or someone who's elderly or frail. A low-vigor dog, on the other hand, has a more subdued approach to life.
Exercise Needs
3
Some breeds do fine with a slow evening stroll around the block. Others need daily, vigorous exercise, especially those that were originally bred for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting.
Without enough exercise, these breeds may put on weight and vent their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, such as barking, chewing, and digging. Breeds that need a lot of exercise are good for outdoorsy, active people, or those interested in training their dog to compete in a high-energy dog sport, such as agility.
Even older dogs need exercise, and it can help fight symptoms of arthritis and other age-related conditions. Adding Glyde Mobility Chews to your dog's routine can give your dog the joint supplements they need to stay active well into old age.
Potential For Playfulness
5
Some dogs are perpetual puppies -- always begging for a game -- while others are more serious and sedate. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog.
You may want to consider adopting an older dog. Seniors can remain playful well into old age and have fewer demands than young dogs. Adding Glyde Mobility Chews to your senior's routine can help fight the symptoms of arthritis and keep your old dog active and playful.
Vital Stats:
Dog Breed Group:
Mixed Breed DogsHeight:
9 to 12 inchesWeight:
9 to 15 poundsLife Span:
12 to 18 yearsMore About This Breed
Highlights
- Shichons are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Shih Tzu or Bichon Frise parents.
- The most common Shichon colors include cream, silver, black and white, brown and white, and chocolate, as well as any mixture of any of those colors. The coat can be solid or have patches throughout.
- Shichons are an excellent choice for those who suffer from allergies, as these are considered very low shedders. Daily brushing to avoid matting of the hair is important.
- Shichons commonly suffer from separation anxiety if left alone frequently or for extended periods of time. It's imperative to begin crate training early or seek out a doggy daycare center.
- Due to their intuitive and gentle natures, Shichons make very popular therapy and emotional support animals.
- Shichons have high energy levels. A game of fetch, a bit of chasing kids around the yard, and a daily half hour walk will help to keep your pet at a healthy body weight.
- Shichons love children and other pets, but because these dogs are small, they can be easily injured during play. Supervision is a must for all play between dogs and kids, especially with Shichons.
History
The Shichon dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders are said to have started intentionally mixing the Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise about 20 to 30 years ago, likely in the United States.
Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to obtain the small size of the Shih Tzu dog and the adaptability and mild disposition from the Bichon Frise parent. Breeders continued to produce the Shichon as demand climbed for these pups who are great for families and people with allergies.
Even though the Shichon got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters and rescues. If this mixed breed is a good match for you, consider adoption.
Check your local shelters, look up Shichon rescue groups, or check with breed specific Shih Tzu or Bichon Frise rescues, as they sometimes will take in mixed breeds to find them homes.
Size
As the Shichon is a more recent mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That being said, with a mix between a Shih Tzu and a Bichon Frise, you can expect this dog to be on the small side.
Most weigh in at nine to 15 pounds and range in height from nine to twelve inches at the shoulder. However, many can be smaller or larger in size, depending on their parents.
Personality
Many Shichon owners describe their pup's personality as naturally extroverted and intelligent. Fortunately, they are not particularly yappy dogs, despite being a small breed dog. They are very energetic pups who will love a couple of laps around the yard and then be ready to come inside to snuggle up to their owner.
Even though they are not big barkers, they are highly protective of their family and household, so they make excellent watchdogs. They love their families so much, in fact, that they are known to be a bit on the clingy side and quite commonly suffer from separation anxiety if left alone frequently or for extended periods of time. It's imperative to begin crate training early, and depending on your personal schedule, you may need to seek out a doggy daycare center.
The positive side to these pups being so close to their humans, is that they are extremely intuitive creatures and make very popular therapy and emotional support animals. They are perfect companions for those suffering from illnesses because of their loving and caring nature and will never leave your side, especially when you need them the most.
The Shichon can have a bit of a stubborn streak. That mixed with their high level of intelligence can sometimes make housetraining a bit of a challenge. Since they are such a small breed, you can potty train your pup to use potty pads indoors or also train them to either go outside in the yard or outside on leash. The potty training options often appeal to older owners who may not be able to physically take their pup outdoors in adverse weather conditions.
Health
The Shichon is a fairly healthy mixed breed but did inherit a few of the common health issues carried by their Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise parents. As with any pet you own, it's very important to maintain good health care and keep up to date with regular veterinary checkups.
Some of the most common of health issues that affect the Shichon include:
- Sensitive skin/allergies
- Chronic dry eye
- Patellar Luxation
- Cataracts
- Cushing's Disease
- Gum Disease
Care
As with all dogs, the Shichon must regularly have vet checkups to make sure any health issues are detected early on. Your vet can help you develop a routine to keep your pet as healthy as possible.
Shichons have energy levels on the higher end, so it's important to make sure that your pup gets the right amount of exercise since this mix can be prone to obesity. A game of fetch, a bit of chasing kids around the yard, and a daily half hour walk will help to keep your pet at a healthy body weight.
These dogs can grow long hair, and it's very important to make sure to check their eyes and ears for debris on a daily basis. Your vet and groomer can help you create a grooming schedule to maintain proper hair and nail length, as well.
Small breed dogs, in general, are notorious for having dental problems, and the same applies to the Shichon. With a short muzzle, they may inherit an underbite--a common trait among Shih Tzus--as well as overall poor oral health. Daily teeth brushing should be performed, and your veterinarian can best instruct you on how to do this properly.
Feeding
An ideal Shichon diet should be formulated for a small breed with high energy. The Shichon can have a tendency to overeat, and although they have a high energy level, you should stick to a regular feeding schedule to avoid obesity. Limiting their amount of treats will also help.
As with all dogs, the Shichon's dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Shichon's diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs--including weight, energy, and health--to make a specific recommendation.
Coat Color And Grooming
Shichon coat colors are often a mix of the Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise parents' coats and colors. Their coats vary, and as the pup grows, their colors may change over time. The most common colors include cream, silver, black and white, brown and white, and chocolate, as well as any mixture of any of those colors. The coat can be solid or have patches throughout.
Since the Shih Tzu dog has long straight hair and the Bichon Frise has a more wavy or curly coat, the Shichon mix can have a variety of coat textures. They are an excellent choice for those who suffer from allergies, as these are considered very low shedders. These soft coats will continue to grow until trimmed so daily brushing to avoid matting of the hair is important, as well as scheduling regular grooming appointments.
Even though the coats of the Shichon can grow out, these are still small breed dogs and are sensitive to extreme temperatures. They may need to wear a sweater in the winter months and should not spend extended periods of time in the cold or hear. With their short snouts, their respiratory tracts are particularly sensitive and respiratory distress can occur if they begin to overheat or cannot breathe properly in colder air.
Children And Other Pets
Since the Shichon is a small dog, they are considered to be very fragile and are prone to suffering from fractures due to their light body frame. That said, the Shichon loves children and should be socialized with them as puppies, but it's very important that there is constant adult supervision and children are taught how to properly handle these pets.
Even the most gentle of children may drop a wiggly little puppy, and for a Shichon, that can mean a fractured limb or worse. As long as the puppy is safe, they will make an excellent family companion!
The Shichon is a small dog with no prey drive, so they will get along wonderfully with any other household pets. Again, proceed with caution while introducing your puppy to larger animals or animals that may engage in rough play due to the small size of the Shichon.
These are naturally curious and lovable pups, so socialize them with their fellow furry family members while young, and they will adapt to living in a multi-pet household wonderfully.
Even thought the Shichon and their parent breeds tend to get along with other pets just fine, it still comes down to the individual Shichon's personality and how successful training and socialization goes.
Rescue Groups
It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Shichons because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Shih Tzu or Bichone Frise breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:
You can also try DogTime's adoption page that lets you search for adoptable dogs by breed and zip code!