If you are only looking for canines, then congratulations, you are in luck. The Shih-Mo has beauty sprinkled all over it. It has the Shih Tzu and the American Eskimo as its parents. Both of these canines have a fluffy appearance and friendly nature. The American Eskimo influence will make the Shih-Mo easy to train, so even first-time owners won’t have any problems with this canine.
The following article will explain everything about this canine in great detail.
Shih-Mo History
There aren’t many things that we can say with certainty about the Shih-Mo. The few things that we use to explain this canine are related to its parents. The Shih Tzu, for example, has a rich history tied to the farms and noble courts of China. These canines had a fearless streak that allowed them to become good companion dogs. Unfortunately, their numbers decreased to concerning values with the Chinese revolution.
The American Eskimo has a weird history. According to their genetics, these canines are German. They belong to the same general Spitz family. However, hostilities rose when the worst came to pass during the world wars. The German families living in the US had to rename it as the American Eskimo. These canines would often be used as show dogs and circus dogs because of their curious and intelligent nature. The Shih-Mo has yet to make a name for itself in the dog world.
Shih-Mo Characteristics
The Shih-Mo has varying physical features. The few things we know about it are all related to its parents. The coat length of this canine, for example, remains between medium and long. The coat will most likely resemble the Shih-Tzu’s than the American Eskimo. Their general body shape is square with strengthened hindquarters. Other than the coat, nothing is fixed. They can have pointed ears and small beady eyes or not. We won’t know until a breed standard is drawn up!
How Big do Shih-Mo Get
The Shih-Mo is a small to medium-sized dog that can easily be carried around in your arms. The Shih-Mo will be taller than 12 inches and shorter than 18 inches in most cases. The height will reflect the parent that it takes after. On the other hand, weight is a reflection of its lifestyle. Ideally, the weight of an average Shih-Mo should remain between 18 and 25 for males and 15 to 22 lbs for females.
How Long Does Shih-Mo Live
The Shih-Mo’s lifespan will be determined by the lifestyle it is exposed to. The Shih-Mo will live between 12 and 14 years if properly cared for. We wouldn’t get too excited about the 14-year limit because it would require a lot of care and a fair bit of luck.
How Much Does a Shih-Mo Cost
There aren’t enough specimens of this canine available to determine its price. Based on the price of its parents, the Shih-Mo will cost you anything between $200 and $500. The price of the Shih-Mo will vary based on the credibility of the breeder and the appearance of the Shih-Mo.
Shih-Mo Temperament/Personality
The Shih-Mo is an intelligent canine with show dog genes. What does this mean for you? It means that the Shih-Mo will be easy to train compared to other canines. They will learn different tricks more easily, and they will listen to commands without a problem. Don’t worry if you don’t have any prior experience; even novices can train this canine.
The Shih-Mo has a social nature since both parents are friendly human-oriented dogs. On the downside, these canines are more prone to separation anxiety because of their social nature. Leaving these canines alone for a long time can trigger self-destructive urges in their body. These canines will befriend any animal as long as they are socialized properly.
Caring for Shih-Mo
The section below highlights things like diet, exercise, and general healthcare. By reading through them all, you will understand the needs of your canine and make better decisions for it.
Shih-Mo Nutrition
Small dogs, such as the Shih-Mo, don’t require much food. The Shih-Mo will typically require no more than one cup of food once they reach full size. Since small canines have different nutritional requirements, we recommend looking for suitable food choices in the Food for Small Dogs section.
How to Groom a Shih-Mo
Some people have their Shih-Mo’s nails and coat trimmed by a professional groomer. You can take care of them yourself at home because it isn’t that difficult. With a Nail Clipper for Dogs, you can easily cut the nails. You’ll have to cut its nails every two to three weeks. With some safe Dog Grooming Clippers and a well-designed Dog Grooming Table, you can trim its coat. You’ll have to brush the Shih-Mo’s coat every day if you don’t want to be tangled up. The Shih-Mo also needs to be bathed once per month.
Shih-Mo Activity Levels
Active canines, like the Shih-Mo, need a lot of exercise to stay healthy. The Shih-Mo will need about forty to fifty minutes of daily activity. Yes, you may not have a lot of time on your hands, but remember that it’s all about your canine’s health. The health of your canine is not something that you can ignore by choice.
Caring for Shih-Mo
There are a couple of things to look out for when taking care of the Shih-Mo. To begin with, provide your dog with a balanced and nutritious diet. Chocolate and anything containing alcohol are the two most toxic foods for dogs, so avoid including them in its diet at all costs. Chocolate, in particular, can lead to problematic conditions like Bloat.
Besides diet, you also have to keep the Shih-Mo safe from large animals. These canines are small and vulnerable. If not taken care of, they could fall prey to even different birds of prey. You have to keep them inside of the house, safe from the treachery of the moody sky and different predators.
Shih-Mo Health
If being small is a crime, the Shih-Mo got the worst possible punishment. This canine has a weakened defense against tons of conditions. The leading ones include Legg-Calve Perthes Disease, Kidney Problems, Hernia, Allergies and Live Disease. These conditions cannot be dealt with at home. You will need professional guidance to keep your canine safe.
We recommend taking your canine to the vet at least once per month. There are also various supplements like Dog Joint Supplements that you should use. These will give your canine a well-deserved boost of immunity.
Breeds Similar to Shih-Mo
Best Dog Food For Shih-Mo
The best dog food for Shih-Mo is Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food. It is a meal that comprises whole grains, real meat, and vegetables to promise complete nutrition and wellness for your Shih-Mo. Plus, it has chicken as a necessary protein supplement to provide strength during the entire lifespan.
- It comprises high-quality protein ingredients to give essential muscle strength
- Glucosamine helps in providing joint support and assists mobility
- The product has no by-products, artificial ingredients, or colors
Best Puppy Food For Shih-Mo
The best puppy food for Shih-Mo is Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food. It is a high protein meal that provides all essential nutrients during the growth years of your Shih-Mo. Plus, the kibble has novel proteins like bison and buffalo as its main protein sources for mobility strength.
- The kibble is great for giving essential strength and support in mobility
- It has no artificial ingredients or harmful contents
- It has vegetables and probiotics to support gut health
Best Dog Crate For Shih-Mo
The best dog crate for Shih-Mo is MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Single Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate. It is a kennel with a unique design that promises maximum safety and security for your Shih-Mo. Plus, it has a sturdy frame that is durable and makes a perfect home for your little Shih-Mo to stay inside all day long.
- The crate is easy to fold, and you can carry it with convenience
- It includes a composite pan for better hygiene
- The divider panel permits to adjust space as per your Shih-Mos liking
Best Dog Bed For Shih-Mo
The best dog bed for Shih-Mo is Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Shag Fur Donut Cuddler Dog Bed. It is a soft and comfortable bed that promises a sound sleep after a tiring and hectic day. Plus, it has orthopedic support to give better comfort to the head and neck region.
- This bed is completely waterproof and dust-resistant, which helps in maintaining hygiene
- The unique shape permits better sleeping position and comfort
- You can easily wash and clean it in the machine
Best Dog Harness For Shih-Mo
The best dog harness for Shih-Mo is Best Pet Supplies Voyager Black Trim Mesh Dog Harness. It is a soft harness that hugs your Shih-Mo and feels gentle on the coat. Plus, it has adjustable straps for giving your Shih-Mo a perfect fit.
- The fabric is soft and breathable and provides absolute comfort
- It has an easy step-in design that promises maximum ease
- It comes with rings to attach a leash easily
Recommended Reading:
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