Sheltie Tzu

Dog Breed Profile

Sheltie Tzu History

The Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso were crossed to create the Sheltie Tzu, a mid-sized hybrid that originated in the USA. The Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso were crossed to create the Sheltie Tzu, a mid-sized hybrid that originated in the USA. The traditional breeding of the Tibetan Terrier (or “Sheltie”) and the Lhasa Apso, which is believed to have started in the late 1930s, produced a dog that was reasonably compact in stature, but retained the coat and character of these two related spitz-type breeds. The original intention was to produce a toy-sized “teacup” type, but, as with all crosses, some of the characteristics favoured by one parent are often overpowered or obscured in the offspring. Since 1997, when breeders began selectively breeding for small size and even smaller heads, the puppies produced by these “teacup” or “designer” lines have become increasingly similar in appearance to the Shih Tzu.

Time of Origin

2000s

Country of Origin

United States Of America

Ancestry

Shetland Sheepdog, Shih Tzu

Sheltie Tzu Physical Characteristics

The Sheltie Tzu is a small, medium-to-large sized mixed-breed dog that typically stands between 14 and 16 inches at the shoulders, and weighs between 20 and 30 pounds. They have a medium-length, sleek, and shiny coat of any color, excepting white, blue, or liver. They have a partially flat face with a slightly turned up nose and their legs are short. They have a wedge-shaped head. The eyes of the Sheltie Tzu are medium sized, round, and dark in color. The teeth meet in a scissors bite. Their tail is normally docked and their ears are triangular and erect. They have a cheerful temperament, are intelligent, and people oriented.

Eye Colors

Blue, Brown

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Black, Brown, Red, Cream, Fawn, Blue, Silver, White, Sable, Brindle

Height Range

Male Height Range: 13 – 16 inches

Female Height Range: 10 – 13 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 20 – 25 lbs

Female Weight Range: 15 – 20 lbs

Sheltie Tzu Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

11-15 yrs

Sheltie Tzu Health Concerns

Patellar Luxation, Von Willebrand’s Disease, Brachycephalic Syndrome, Patent Ductus Arteriosis (PDA), Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), Entropion, Ectropion, Deafness, Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome, Eye Conditions (Cataracts, Lens Luxation)

Sheltie Tzu Temperament and Behaviour

The Sheltie Tzu is a medium-sized, energetic, and intelligent breed. The Sheltie side of the mix makes them outgoing, happy-go-lucky, and friendly. The Tzu side makes them quiet, calm, and cautious. The combination makes the Sheltie Tzu a well-mannered, confident, and adaptable breed.

Sheltie Tzu Activity Requirements

The Scottish Terrier and Shih Tzu are both small, elegant breeds that make great companions. Originally used for hunting, the Sheltie Tzu still has plenty of energy and stamina. While they are not a high-energy breed, most Shelties and Shih-Tzus do enjoy being out with the family. Daily walks and trips to the dog park are a great way to get your Sheltie and Shi-Tzu the exercise and attention they need. Due to their small size, some people don’t consider these breeds to be suitable for families with small children. While this is not always the case, it is important to take extra precautions when bringing a Sheltie or Shih-Tzu into a home with young children.