Fo-Tzu is sweet, affectionate, and lively. They adopt these wonderful and admirable traits from their parents, both of which are popular traits owned by many people worldwide. This hybrid dog results from a cross between the Shih Tzu and the Fox Terrier. These small-sized dogs come in different variations, depending on the type of Fox Terrier used in the cross.
These dogs are unique because they have many contradicting qualities like sweetness on one side and affection on the other, with curiosity on one side and playfulness on the other. They can make anyone fall in love with them with their loving, caring, and affectionate personalities.
Fo-Tzu History
Fo-Tzu is a comparatively new breed with not much going on the pages of their history. So, to gain a better perspective, we will look at their parent breeds. Fox Terriers are believed to have their origins in the 1500s England, where hunters used them for hunting medium-sized game like fox and Vermin.
The other parent breed is the Shih-Tzu. It is a genuine Chinese variety, thought to have begun back in the old days of the Lhaso Apso and the Pekingese. Both of these varieties are believed to be identified with the Cockerel A-Tzu. The Shih-Tzu was especially acclaimed with eminence and became very popular when it was imported to Western Shores. This variety has a particular regal look that can allure even the hardest of hearts.
Fo-Tzu Characteristics
Fo-Tzu has a small, cute, and cuddly appearance. These adorable pups made their entrance into the list of designer breeds recently. The distinctive feature of this dog is its tiny legs, a furry tail, and medium floppy ears. These ears are flopped from the tips and stand on a round dome-shaped head with a long muzzle that supports a small black nose.
Their coats can be different depending on the parent breed that dominates in the cross. They can have a short coat with straight hair or a long coat with fine hair. The possible coat colors include black, brown, white, cream, sable, and pied.
How Big do Fo-Tzu Get
The size of this dog can vary according to the breed of Fox Terrier used in the cross. But normally, the males have an average height of 12 – 15 inches and an average weight of 10 – 19lbs. The females have similar proportions, and their height maybe a little less, averaging between 8 and 13 inches.
How Long Does a Fo-Tzu Live
Small-sized dogs like the Fo-Tzu have longer lifespans than the bigger and medium-sized dogs. On average, they live between 12 and 16 years. You can tip this scale towards the upper limit by taking good care of them, feeding them appropriately, and taking care of their activity needs.
How much does a Fo-Tzu Cost
The price of any dog depends on various factors like the breeder’s reputation that you’re buying from. On average, they can cost you anywhere between $800 and $2000, but if you are buying it from a more reputable breeder, you’ll have to pay much more than that. You’ll also have to spend extra on their accessories which include Toys, Beds, and Bowls.
Fo-Tzu Temperament/Personality
Like all the other designer breeds, Fo-Tzu’s personality is unique in each individual; it mostly depends on the qualities the parents of their specific litter had. But there are some commonalities. For instance, this little fellow is known for their affectionate, caring, and compassionate nature. They tend to form tight bonds with their owners.
They also love being the center of attention, so you’ll have to ensure that you keep them with you as much as you can. They will follow you around wherever you go, but they are naturally very suspicious of strangers, so you might see them getting stressed when new faces are around.
Caring for Fo-Tzu
Caring for your Fo-Tzu requires you to take care of their grooming so that their coat and overall appearance remain neat and clean. You need to ensure that they are eating properly and the right amount of food. And lastly, you’ll have to complete their nutritional needs. Keep on reading to find out all you need to know.
Fo-Tzu Nutrition
As a small-sized dog, so they don’t require a lot of food before they fill up. You can feed them 1 – 1.5 cups of good quality dog food per day. It would be best to divide this amount into 3 – 4 meals and feed them throughout the day. This ensures that they have a constant food supply throughout the day, and their metabolism keeps running.
How to Groom a Fo-Tzu
This adorable dog needs to be brushed at least 4 – 5 times per week, preferably with a wire-pin brush. This will ensure that their coat remains free of tangles and mats. They can also develop skin diseases, so ensure that your dog’s vet approves the shampoo you’re using.
Fo-Tzu Activity Levels
Fo-Tzus can be lazy if you let them. But they have energy in them that needs to be released; otherwise, they can become anxious. Moreover, a lack of exercise causes them to gain additional weight that can prove harmful. So, It would be best to take them on walks and play various games with them to keep them engaged. They need at least 60 minutes of activity per day.
Caring for Fo-Tzu
Fo-Tzus are intelligent dogs that require constant care and attention. Leaving them alone for long periods can prove detrimental to their mental health. They can develop separation anxiety and develop self-destructive behavior. So it will be your responsibility to ensure they get to spend a good amount of time with you every day.
Fo-Tzu Health
These adorable pups are usually very healthy dogs. But sometimes they can develop certain health issues like Brachycephalic Syndrome, Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome, Entropion Ectropion, Cataracts, Urolithiasis, Intervertebral Disc Disease, Eye Problems, and Otitis Interna and Media.
Breeds Similar to Fo-Tzu
Best Dog Food For Fo-Tzu
The best dog food for Fo-Tzu is Purina Pro Plan Adult Shredded Blend Lamb & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food. This dog food provides your Fo-Tzu a complete and balanced diet that will help them stay healthy and active throughout its life. It contains rich proteins, fats, minerals, and other essential nutrients without any artificial preservatives.
- Contains high-quality proteins from lamb as the base ingredient
- Contains hard kibbles with tender shredded meat that gives the dog food another texture
- Contains prebiotics that is good for the digestive system
Best Puppy Food For Fo-Tzu
The best puppy food for Fo-Tzu is Nutro Natural Choice Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe. The Nutro dry puppy food is specially formulated for young Fo-Tzus, providing them all the nutrition it needs to grow into a healthy adult. It is packed with tasty and delicious chicken, rice, vegetables, etc., without any poultry-by-products, corn, wheat soy, and other fillers.
- Contains chicken as the base ingredient
- Contains antioxidants that aids a healthy immune system
- Has DHA for healthy brain and vision development
Best Dog Crate For Fo-Tzu
The best dog crate for Fo-Tzu is MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate. The MidWest double door crate is designed to provide your Fo-Tzu a nice den to retreat to while you are not around to supervise. It is easy to assemble and collapse down while it is not in use for easy storage.
- Features 2 doors for easy entry and exit
- Has ABS plastic handles for easy portability
- Has secure bolt latches for added safety
Best Dog Bed For Fo-Tzu
The best dog bed for Fo-Tzu is K&H Pet Products Thermo-Snuggly Sleeper Bolster Cat & Dog Bed. This bed is designed to keep your Fo-Tzu warm and comfortable, especially in the winter season. The bed is designed to be easily washable.
- Features bolster on all sides for added support
- Features dual thermostats for the additional warmth
- Has a lowered front side for easy access
Best Dog Harness For Fo-Tzu
The best dog harness for Fo-Tzu is Puppia Vest Polyester Step In Back Clip Dog Harness. The Puppia is a comfortable and stylish harness perfect for your Fo-Tzus. It fits exactly like a vest with a fastener closure and a quick-release buckle.
- Has a vest-style design for a secure and comfortable fitting
- Made from pure polyester
- Made from soft fabric with breathable mesh to prevent any discomfort
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