The Pekingese Shih Tzu mix, commonly known as Peketzu or Shinese, is a designer breed that combines two ancient Asian dog breeds. This small companion dog emerged in the United States as breeders sought to create an ideal lap dog with the best traits of both parent breeds. The Peketzu typically weighs 10-16 pounds and features a flat face, dense coat, and floppy ears. While not recognized by major kennel clubs, this mixed breed has gained popularity for its friendly yet independent temperament, protective nature, and adaptability to family life. Their growing appeal stems from their manageable size and relatively low exercise needs.
Pekingese Shih Tzu Mix Care Needs
Dietary Requirements and Feeding Schedule
The Shih Tzu Pekingese mix requires approximately 1 cup of high-quality small breed dog food daily, divided into two meals. Treats and table scraps should be limited to prevent obesity. The food should be low in fats and carbohydrates but contain adequate protein levels. Special feeding dishes may be needed to accommodate their flat faces.
Optimal Environmental Conditions
The Shinese thrives best in moderate temperatures due to their brachycephalic nature. They require a fenced yard for safe play but can adapt well to apartment living. Indoor temperatures should be maintained between 68-75°F to prevent overheating. Their living space should include comfortable bedding away from drafts and direct sunlight. As they can be sensitive to extreme weather, outdoor time should be limited during peak temperatures.
Appearance and Physical Characteristics of the Pekingese Shih Tzu Mix
Distinctive Features
The Pekingese Shih Tzu mix has a distinctive oval to round head shape with a slightly flattened face. They have large round eyes, typically brown in color, with a black or brown nose. Their floppy, triangle-shaped ears frame their face, while their dense, wavy coat often veils their facial features.
Size and Structure
This hybrid stands between 8-12 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 10-16 pounds. The Shinese has a compact body that is longer than it is tall, with short legs supporting their sturdy frame. Their tail is characteristically long and fluffy, typically carried curved over their back. Unlike many other small breeds, they have a notably thick double coat that requires special grooming attention to maintain its condition.
Temperament and Personality Traits of the Pekingese Shih Tzu Mix
Intelligence and Training Disposition
The Peke-Tzu exhibits high emotional intelligence and adaptability, though they can display stubbornness during training. Their intelligence allows them to quickly understand human emotions and commands, but their independent nature requires consistent, patient training approaches using positive reinforcement methods.
Social Characteristics
The Shinese demonstrates strong protective instincts and loyalty toward their family while maintaining a cautious attitude toward strangers. Unlike many small breeds that are purely companion dogs, they make excellent watchdogs due to their alert nature and protective tendencies. However, this protective trait needs proper management through early socialization to prevent excessive barking or defensive behaviors.
Health Management and Lifespan of the Pekingese Shih Tzu Mix
Common Health Screening Requirements
The Shinese requires regular health monitoring, particularly for conditions like skin fold pyoderma and patellar luxation. Veterinary check-ups should occur every 6 months to screen for early signs of intervertebral disc disease. Regular dental examinations are also crucial due to their predisposition to oral health issues.
Longevity Factors
While small dogs generally have longer lifespans, the Peke-Tzu specifically benefits from hybrid vigor, with an average lifespan of 11-16 years. This exceeds the typical lifespan of their purebred parents due to reduced genetic health issues. Maintaining optimal weight through proper diet and exercise, along with regular preventive healthcare, can help maximize their longevity. Environmental factors like indoor living and protection from extreme temperatures also contribute to their extended lifespan.
Conclusion
The Pekingese Shih Tzu mix (Shinese) emerges as a distinctive companion dog that combines the best traits of both parent breeds. This small but sturdy hybrid typically stands 8-12 inches tall, weighs 10-16 pounds, and features a characteristic flat face, dense double coat, and compact body structure. Their care requirements include specific dietary needs of approximately 1 cup of high-quality food daily, moderate temperature environments, and regular health screenings for breed-specific conditions.
Notable findings indicate that the Shinese possesses high emotional intelligence and strong protective instincts, though they may display some stubbornness during training. Their hybrid vigor contributes to an impressive lifespan of 11-16 years, exceeding that of their purebred parents. For potential owners, this breed's combination of adaptability to apartment living, watchdog capabilities, and affectionate nature makes them an excellent choice for various households, provided they can commit to the required grooming maintenance and health monitoring these dogs need for optimal wellbeing.