We all know French bulldogs as popular, beautiful and little lap dogs. Then we have Shih Tzu with their perky and happy temperaments. But did you ever wonder what happens when you mix French Bulldog and Shih Tzu?
What is a French Bulldog and Shih Tzu mix?
The result of the French bulldog and Shih Tzu mix is a cute little affectionate dog called French Bull Tzu. Other names for this mix are Shitzu Bulldog, Bully-Tzu, or Bullshitz. Traits like loyalty, intelligence, and charm are inherited from French bulldog and Shih Tzu.
Personality traits are not the only thing French Bull Tzu has similar to parent breeds. Their look also reflects the physical traits of French Bulldog and Shih Tzu. Fluffy, adorable, and soft, French Bull Tzu will take over your heart in seconds.
French Bull Tzu doesn’t have a long history like French bulldogs and Shih Tzu and they are usually considered “designer” dogs. This means that they are bred from two pure breeds.
Temperament and Personality of French Bull Tzus
Bully-Tzu is easy to love and a very friendly dog. But don’t get fooled, French bulldog and Shih Tzu mix puppies can be feisty little dogs. They love to be in charge like they have no idea that they are small. French Bull Tzus can be a little snappy which is why it’s important to socialize them from a young age.
They are a very laid-back dog breed but sometimes they like to set terms of hanging out together.
If you want an affectionate dog that enjoys spending lots of time with you, a Bulldog Shih Tzu mix is a perfect choice. This temperament will also cause them to bark and chew if bored.
French bulldogs are known as a non-aggressive dog breed. Shih Tzu has most bites registered with children under 3 years. It’s usually due to the provocative behavior of small children but it is a risk.
French Bulldog and Shih Tzu mix Appearance
The average size of a French Bull Tzu is 8-12 inches with 15-25 pounds weight.
It is very hard to predict what will French bulldog Shih Tzu mix puppies look like. They usually have medium or long smooth coats. Coat colors can vary from black, brown, white and red. Coats can also be mixes of these colors.
Sometimes French Bull Tzus will look more like a French bulldog and sometimes more like Shih Tzu. If they take more physical traits of a french bulldog they will be slim and muscular with erect “bat ears”. On the other hand, they can have a longer coat and floppier ears like Shih Tzu.
Bulldog Shih Tzu Mix Health
Here’s what you need to know before looking for Bulldog Shih Tzu mix puppies for sale.
The brachycephalic face shapes of a French bulldog and Shih Tzu lead to several health problems. Usually, it’s a Brachycephalic ocular syndrome and Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). This also leads to overheating and dental issues are also a common problem for Shih Tzu mixed with a French bulldog.
Other health problems that can be passed down to French bulldog mixed with a Shih tzu are:
- Vertebrae deformities which are common in French bulldogs (For example screw tails and hemivertebrae)
- Hyperuricosuria – a problem with bladder stones characteristic for both breeds
- Intervertebral Disc Disease which Shih Tzu is prone to
- Hip Dysplasia which is a common issue both for Shih Tzus and Frenchies
- Allergies are another health issue that both Frenchies and Shih Tzu suffer from
- Retinal dysplasia or atrophy and cataract
French bulldog Shih Tzu mix puppies often inherit these health problems. Serious and reputable breeders will give you a guarantee for Bulldog Shih Tzu puppies. It’s easy to find French Bull Tzu puppies for sale but finding the right breeder who did all necessary tests shouldn’t be taken lightly.
They usually live 10-14 years and are considered one of the healthiest breed hybrids.
Taking care of French Bull Tzu
Here are several recommendations for taking care of this hybrid breed in case you want to buy a French bulldog Shih Tzu mix puppy.
Spend time together
French Bull Tzu requires lots of together time in order to be happy and satisfied. They love long walks, playing fetch and other games. This French bulldog Shih Tzu mix also loves learning tricks and responds very well to this kind of fun. If you plan on leaving it alone for more than 2 hours, consider crate training. This will teach your dog that the crate is its safe and happy place. This will significantly help with separation anxiety.
Training
This hybrid is not easy to train, but once they build trust with you, they are very quick learners. Use the reinforcement methods as well as classic conditioning to train your French Bull Tzu dog. They are very sensitive and can easily develop fear so try to avoid punishment and yelling.
Brushing and baths
While French bulldogs are heavy shedders, Shih Tzus are considered light shedders. French Bull Tzu is a medium shredder that requires often brushing. Furminator is the only tool you need to keep shedding to a minimum and help your pet handle the shedding process. For bath time you can choose a shampoo brush.
Feeding
Help your French Bull Tzu by providing triangular kibble. Due to their facial anatomy, it can be hard for them to reach food from regular kibble. Make sure that you give them enough protein, carbohydrates, fats, minerals and vitamins. Choose a premium dog food that will provide all the necessary nutrients for your dog. Also, make sure that the food is easy to eat and delicious. Adjust micro and macronutrients according to French Bull Tzu’s age. Their needs change with age so make sure that you follow those.
How much do French bulldog Shih Tzu mix puppies cost?
French bulldog and Shih Tzu mix puppies usually cost between $500 and $1000.
The cost of their parent breeds also varies. Shih Tzu puppies cost between $750 and $1250. French Bulldog puppies can go from $1500 and more. Some are even sold for over $10.000.
Prices will always depend on quality. If you purchase puppies from a reputable breeder, you can count on higher prices, but also a healthier dog.
