The Sheltie-Tzu is a mix of two breeds that are worlds apart in personality and work ethics. One of the parents of the Sheltie-Tzu is a working-class dog named the Shetland Sheepdog. The other parent is a multi-talented dog from China named the Shih Tzu.
Their particular combination gives the Sheltie-Tzu some interesting personality traits. However, before we discuss the Sheltie-Tzu and its compatibility, there are a few basic pieces of information that we have to get out of the way.
Sheltie-Tzu History
There are no reliable sources of information on the Sheltie-Tzu’s origins. The history of the Sheltie-Tzu’s parents is the only thing that can help us understand it better. The Shetland Sheepdog is a breed of dog known for its ability to herd sheep. They were bred on farms in the Shetland Islands and kept as pets. According to some experts, Collie blood was infused into their bloodlines over the years to make them tamer and efficient.
The Shih Tzu, compared to the Sheltie, has a longer and richer history. More than 1500 years have passed since these canines first appeared on the scene. This dog was popular during the Tang Dynasty. In ancient China, these dogs were so important that they served as a reflection of a person’s social status and nobility. Their excitable and chirpy nature made them a favorite of different royal families.
Sheltie-Tzu Characteristics
The Sheltie-Tzu can take after any side of its family. Fortunately, both sides have some mutual appearance traits. The coat of the Sheltie-Tzu should remain medium to long in length. The colors for the coat will remain between Black, Brown, White, Fawn, Gray, Cream, Pied, Sable and Brindle. The Sheltie-Tzu may have the Shih Tzus muzzle. Overall, they will be quite short but will still have a well-proportioned body.
How Big do Sheltie-Tzu Get
The Sheltie-Tzu is a small canine. The males are usually 13 to 16 inches, while the females are 10 to 13 inches tall. The weight range for the males is 20 to 25 lbs, while the females weigh 15 to 20 lbs. The weight should stay within the specified range for optimal health.
How Long Does Sheltie-Tzu Live
There are no fixed standards to determine the lifespan of the Sheltie-Tzu. The only thing we can be sure of is that with average care, the Sheltie-Tzu should live beyond the 10-year limit. The more you take care of its health, the longer it will live. With ideal care and conditions, the Sheltie-Tzu should live to 15 years of age.
How Much Does a Sheltie-Tzu Cost
The average cost of a Sheltie-Tzu should remain between 200 and 600 dollars. This figure is a mere estimation based on the price ranges for similar mixed breeds. The parents cost way more because of their demand, but the Sheltie-Tzu is unrecognized, and no one knows about them. Therefore, their price will remain on the lower end of the cost spectrum.
Sheltie-Tzu Temperament/Personality
Both parents get along well with humans. The Sheltie-Tzu will be protective and wary due to the Shih Tzu genes. With the right training, this dog could become a good watchdog. Small pets may find the Sheltie-Tzu to be a bit bossy because of the Shetland’s herding nature. We don’t recommend leaving it unattended around small animals.
If you have prior experience, training the Sheltie-Tzu should be simple. You should begin training it at a young age. You will have to give it the right training sessions with the right outlook and discipline. If you aren’t determined or consistent with the training sessions, they won’t work. You won’t be able to teach it a thing. You can use a Dog Training Book to get more guidance.
Caring for Sheltie-Tzu
The following section highlights all of the important bits about dog keeping. For reference, we have explained dietary procedures, touched upon general healthcare routines and other bits of instructive information.
Sheltie-Tzu Nutrition
Because the Sheltie-Tzu is a small dog, it will only require one cup of food per day. You may be tempted to feed it two or more cups of food, but you do so at your own risk. Your dog’s diet could be ruined by the wrong diet. When it comes to dietary planning, it’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian.
How to Groom a Sheltie-Tzu
The Sheltie-Tzu has a long coat that cannot be ignored for any length of time. You will have to brush the coat every day to avoid any problems. You will need to brush the coat with an appropriate Dog Brush. To get rid of the excess hair, you might want to use a Vacuum for Dog Hair. You will also have to pay attention to the dental health of the Sheltie-Tzu. Brush the teeth at least once per two days. You will have to bathe the Sheltie-Tzu based on the intensity of the smell that it develops.
Sheltie-Tzu Activity Levels
The Sheltie-Tzu is a moderately active dog for its size. The Sheltie-Tzu’s daily activity should range from 40 to 50 minutes. The length of the workouts should correspond to the intensity of the workouts. Start with a few light exercises or soft jogs. After those, you can move to games or drills to really deplete your canine’s energy levels.
Caring for Sheltie-Tzu
There are a few things that you will have to be careful about. A lot of new owners make an amateur mistake by using human toothpaste for brushing their canine’s teeth. Human toothpaste contains fluoride and other washing agents that are not meant for canines. You will have to give your canine a Toothpaste for Dogs. With the toothpaste, you should also get an appropriate Toothbrush for Dogs.
Sheltie-Tzu Health
Small canines, like the Sheltie-Tzu, are prone to a wide range of health issues. The Sheltie-Tzu’s weak points include IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease, PDA, Von Willebrand’s Disease, Entropion, and Ectropion. There are at least eight more possible entries on the list that could affect your doggie.
The best way to protect your dog from these diseases is to feed it a nutritious diet. Take it to the vet if you notice anything out of the ordinary. You will also have to pay the vet’s office at least one visit per month.
Breeds Similar to Sheltie-Tzu
Best Dog Food for Sheltie Tzus
The best dog food for Sheltie Tzu is Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini Breed Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food. This dog food has been prepared with unique formula considering the health and nourishment of your little friend. The formula contains natural ingredients in the recipe that provides a healthy lifestyle to your dog.
- Improves digestive health of your pal with prebiotic fibers.
- Equipped with omega fatty acids for healthier skin and coat.
- Includes amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.
Best Puppy Food for Sheltie Tzus
The best puppy food for Sheltie Tzu is Purina Pro Plan Puppy Small Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food. This puppy food has been crafted with rice and chicken as key ingredients. It does not include any artificial ingredients like flavors and color.
- Contains antioxidants and live probiotics for better immunity and digestion.
- Ensures vision and cognition development through omega fatty acids.
- Builds muscles through high-protein formula.
Best Dog Crate for Sheltie Tzus
The best dog crate for Sheltie Tzu is the MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate. This crate has a strong construction. It guarantees the safety of your dog by providing a secure home.
- Super easy to transport and relocate with fold-and-carry structure.
- Includes plastic pan for cleaning easily.
- The divider panel provides convenient size adjustment.
Best Dog Bed for Sheltie Tzus
The best dog bed for Sheltie Tzu is Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Shag Fur Donut Cuddler Cat & Dog Bed. This bed has faux fur material with a machine-washable and dryer-safe structure which makes it super easy to clean.
- Contains raised edges for the headrest.
- Offers relief from muscle and joints pain through the additional filling.
- The water-resistant bottom makes it safer.
Best Dog Harness for Sheltie Tzus
The best dog harness for Sheltie Tzu is Best Pet Supplies Voyager Black Trim, Mesh Dog Harness. This harness has high-quality material that makes it super comfortable and durable. It supports airflow for cozy warm days.
- Attach leash through 2D rings.
- Contains a fastener snap with snap-in buckles for added security.
- Easy to put on with a step-in design.
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