The Shih Tzu Peke Mix – Your Ultimate Breed Guide

If you’re feeling a bit regal these days and are interested in a toy dog with a royal history, then the Shih Tzu Peke Mix is calling your name. This hybrid dog combines two unique worlds and brings a bit of Tibetan and Chinese history to any home they grace.

Small, affectionate, intelligent, and family-oriented, the Shih Tzu Peke Mix will make the perfect companion for the right owner.

Is that owner you? Join us today as we discover more about the Shih Tzu Peke Mix and learn why this darling dog is so highly coveted by canine enthusiasts.

Meet The Shih Tzu Peke

The Shih Tzu Peke is a cross between the Shih Tzu and the Pekingese.

Type: Crossbreed, Hybrid, Mixed Breed, Designer Dog

Parent Breeds: The Shih Tzu and The Pekeginese

Other Names: Shinese

Height: 8 to 13 Inches

Weight: 10 to 16 Pounds

Temperament: Affectionate, Playful, Sweet-Natured, Clever, Devoted

Best Suited For: Families With Gentle Children, Singles, Seniors, Retirees, Owners With Flexible Schedules

Average Price: $600 to $1,000

Hypoallergenic: Potentially

Lifespan: 10 to 15 Years

Health Issues: Intervertebral Disc Disease, Dry Eye, Corneal Ulcers, Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome, Entropion, Patellar Luxation, Kidney Stones, Mitral Valve Disease, Cleft Lip, Cleft Palat, Skin Fold Pyoderma, Overheating, Obesity, Ear Infections, Otitis Externa, Skin Fold Pyoderma, Mouth Abscesses, Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome

Shih Tzu Peke Mix Breed Overview:

The Shih Tzu Peke Mix is a newer canine crossbreed, though he is quickly rising in popularity. Owners of all kinds love this little toy dog due to its unique personality, temperament, and flowing coat.

Bred primarily as companion dogs, the Shih Tzu Peke Mix does best in homes with devoted owners who have flexible schedules. They are relatively long-lived little dogs, though they can struggle with quite a list of health issues.

It’s important that potential owners consider health, temperament, and the Shih Tzu Peke Mix dog’s unique needs before investing.

Is this canine cutie the right addition to your home or family? It’s time to find out!

Where Did The Shih Tzu Peke Come From? Let’s Talk Origin!

Crossbreeding dogs has been around for centuries, though it is considered controversial.

The Shih Tzu Peke Mix is a descendant of two highly coveted and royal breeds, but you wouldn’t be able to tell with this dog’s humble personality.

Whenever you are dealing with a crossbreed dog, it’s important to consider both parent breeds. And although both the Shih Tzu Peke dog’s parent breeds share similar origins, they are still quite different from one another.

While there is a chance your Shih Tzu Peke Mix could be a great combination of both the Shih Tzu and the Pekingese, he could also be more like one parent over the other when it comes to certain characteristics.

We can’t give you an exact prediction of what to expect out of your particular Shih Tzu Peke Mix, but we can help give you an idea by diving deeper into the origins of his parent breeds.

Let’s begin with the Pekingese.

Meet The Pekingese

Experts describe the small and spirited Pekingese as an opinionated, funny, and energetic little dog that is bred primarily for companionship. Historically, the Pekingese was a dog designated for royalty and was kept protectively sheltered in the Chinese Palace.

His job there was twofold; the Pekingese was not only a devoted and beloved companion dog, but he also served as a watchdog. This vocal breed was excellent at alerting guards to trespassers, animals, or anything else that suspiciously appeared where it shouldn’t.

During the Second Opium War in 1860, the Old Summer Palace was raided by the British. It was then that five royal Pekingese dogs were discovered. They made their way out of the palace and were finally introduced to the world.

Also called Lion Dogs, the Pekingese are famous for their uniquely flattened faces, long “lion’s mane” coat, and willful temperament.

Today, they are a favorite companion dog for seniors, singles, retirees, and families with flexible schedules.

Meet The Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is often confused for another dog of Chinese heritage, although his true origin places him in Tibet. It is believed that travelers gifted these dogs to the Chinese, who then used the dogs in a similar way to the Pekingese.

Owned and beloved by royalty, it has been suggested that all Shih Tzus of today are descendants of 14 original Shih Tzu dogs from Imperial China.

Similar to the Pekingese, the Shih Tzu was utilized as a watchful alert dog, though he quickly became more beloved as a cheerful and affectionate companion dog.

Today, Shih Tzu dogs make excellent companions for families with older, more gentle children, singles, seniors, retirees, and those seeking emotional support dogs or therapy dogs.

The Shih Tzu Peke Mix And The Crossbreed Controversy

Crossbreed dogs have exploded in popularity over the last two decades, and this is greatly due to Doodle hybrids like the Labradoodle, Goldendoodle, Maltipoo, and more making their way onto the scene.

And while crossbreeding dogs has been ongoing for centuries, it has only recently become a trend to breed and sell first and second-generation hybrids as if they were purebred dogs.

This has raised some eyebrows amongst experts, breeders, and dog enthusiasts, and it has started a debate regarding the breeding and selling of newer generation designer dogs.

This is because it can take generations of careful breeding for a dog to be considered a purebred dog. Originally, dogs were not bred and sold by reputable sources without proper paperwork and pedigree, and there was great pride in owning a purebred dog with excellent heritage.

The benefit to purebreds, as many experts see it, is that they are predictable when it comes to temperament, health, and appearance.

Crossbreed dogs, and especially newer generation crossbreed dogs, are less predictable and could take after one parent breed over the other.

However, there are some benefits of investing in crossbreed dogs. One of the benefits is that hybrids have the advantage of what is known as hybrid vigor.

Hybrid vigor is the idea that mixed dogs are healthier than purebred dogs due to their widened gene pool.

Purebred dogs, for example, have been so widely overbred for centuries that they are much more likely to inherit or suffer from genetic diseases and ailments.

However, many point out that you cannot predict genetics, and that hybrid dogs, mutts, and purebred dogs are equally as likely to suffer from genetic health issues.

It should also be noted that crossbreed dogs like the Shih Tzu Peke Mix could potentially have a longer list of health issues to contend with, as they do have two different parent breeds in their DNA.

Either way, it’s important to note where your dog comes from and have a good idea of which types of issues he may be predisposed to.

The good news is that there are ways to combat certain health issues in your Shih Tzu Peke Mix, and we will talk more about that further down.

For now, it’s time to move on to the temperament of the remarkable and darling Shih Tzu Peke Mix!

The Shih Tzu Peke Temperament And Personality

These hybrids are people-oriented and become very bonded to their family.

Small but mighty!

These words are often used to describe the remarkable Shih Tzu Peke Mix. From his button nose to his fluffy tail, this little dog is an opinionated, vocal, and devoted companion who is not afraid to ask for what he wants.

His tiny size can make him the ideal apartment dog, though his propensity to use his voice could make him problematic for some owners in smaller spaces.

For the most part, though, the Shih Tzu Peke Mix is a friendly, easy-going, fun-loving canine companion.

He does well with a variety of owners and in a variety of home types, though he is best suited for those with older, more respectful children.

Toy dogs of any breed can be prone to easy injury, especially if they are handled or played with too roughly.

If you do plan on raising your Shih Tzu Peke Mix with youngsters, it’s wise to not leave your dog and children unsupervised.

We also suggest working with children on how to appropriately and respectfully interact with their Shih Tzu Peke Mix, and how to understand basic canine body language.

Remember, all dogs can be capable of growling, nipping, or biting. This is especially true if dogs feel threatened or fearful, or if they are hurt.

While the Shih Tzu Peke Mix is not known to be aggressive, he may not tolerate very young children handling him roughly.

Aside from this, the Shih Tzu Peke Mix is a sweet-natured and sassy little dog. He is very companionable and family-oriented, which means he will do best in homes with owners who can be home with him often.

Many people often refer to the Shih Tzu Peke Mix as a “velcro dog”, as he likes to be with his people as often as possible. This is a dog that will follow you from room to room, and he will enjoy going on an adventure so long as he is with you.

This makes the Shih Tzu Peke Mix an excellent addition to homes of retirees, and he does especially well with those in need of an emotional support dog or therapy dog, as we mentioned briefly above.

However, keep in mind that if your Shih Tzu Peke Mix is left alone for too long during the day, he can be prone to suffering from separation anxiety. This could lead to destructive behaviors like barking, marking, and chewing.

Luckily, you can help combat problematic behaviors by ensuring your dog is kept mentally stimulated and exercised throughout the day.

Let’s learn more.

How To Keep Your Shih Tzu Peke Exercised And Mentally Stimulated

Though they are primarily companion dogs, these small pups still need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Because the Shih Tzu Peke Mix is such a family-oriented canine, he can struggle with depression, anxiety, and issues with separation if left alone.

While his first choice will always be to be with you, you can help distract him and keep him occupied while you are away by ensuring he is mentally stimulated and properly exercised.

Routine exercise will help reduce pent-up energy in your Shih Tzu Peke Mix, and it will also help ensure he stays physically fit.

A small dog, the Shih Tzu Peke Mix can have his exercise needs met in several ways. He requires at least 30 to 40 minutes of dedicated exercise a day, and this can be met with brisk walks around your neighborhood, games of fetch or chase in a yard, or even fun homemade obsticale courses you make for him inside your home.

Fida Step-In Dog Harness

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When you are walking your Shih Tzu Peke Mix, be sure to walk him using the proper equipment. As we will discuss in more detail further down, the Shih Tzu Peke Mix is a brachycephalic dog breed that can struggle with breathing difficulties and other sensitivities.

For this reason, it’s very important not to walk your dog on a leash and collar alone. Instead, we recommend a step-in no-choke dog harness that clips in the front and therefore does not put pressure on your Shih Tzu Peke Mix dog’s sensitive throat or trachea.

Along with ensuring your Shih Tzu Peke Mix is properly exercised, it’s also important to keep his brain fit.

This is a clever little dog who will enjoy being challenged from time to time. Like all dogs, the Shih Tzu Peke Mix is likely going to be highly food motivated. You can help keep him distracted and busy while you are away by leaving him home with toys that hold his focus utilizing treats.

There are many puzzle toy options for dogs you can purchase that hide goodies in small compartments and encourage your dog to work to find the treats. You can also use the classic KONG toy for small dogs and fill it with dog-safe peanut butter or KONG filler from your local pet shop

For especially attached Shih Tzu Peke Mix dogs, you might consider investing in the Furbo camera and treat dispenser, listed below.

Furbo Treat Dispenser and Pet Camera

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The Furbo camera is one of the most popular pet camera options owners use to help keep tabs on their pets while they are away. The camera also tosses treats to your dog, and you can control this simply from an app on your phone.

The Furbo camera includes a 1080 HD camera and even has night vision. You can live stream what your pet is doing right from your phone, which can help ease any anxieties you have about leaving your pet at home alone when you know they might be anxious.

The Training and Socializing Needs Of A Shih Tzu Peke Mix

Training and socialization should begin while your puppy is young and continue throughout his life.

The Shih Tzu Peke Mix is a devoted companion dog, but he is also a curious, clever and opinionated pup with loads on his mind. If your Shih Tzu Peke Mix takes after his Pekingese parent breed in temperament, chances are he may be a bit more vocal and stubborn than you’re prepared for.

You can help nip any behavioral issues in the bud by beginning training and socialization early on with your Shih Tzu Peke Mix.

Training Your Shih Tzu Peke Mix

It’s never too early or too late to begin training any dog, and the Shih Tzu Peke Mix is no exception. With that being said, it is often easier to begin training your Shih Tzu Peke Mix during puppyhood. During this time, it’s wise to establish a routine and to build a strong and trusting bond with your dog.

Avoid aversive methods like scolding or punishments when it comes to training. Remember, the Shih Tzu Peke Mix is a sensitive little dog who will likely shut down if he feels he has upset you.

Instead, use training treats that are high value and sure to hold your dog’s attention during training sessions, and use tons of positive reinforcement and praise to focus on what your dog does right as opposed to what he does wrong.

Train Me Training Treats

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When training a Shih Tzu Peke Mix, we like using the Train Me Training Treats listed above. These training treats are low in calories and made with quality ingredients that include real pork.

The treats are small, highly smelly, and very chewy, which are all characteristics that make for excellent training treats.

When you’re training your Shih Tzu Peke Mix, try keeping training sessions short, game-like and fun. Take breaks often and stay consistent and repetitive.

Remember, training should begin early but it should be a consistent practice throughout your dog’s lifetime.

Socializing Your Shih Tzu Peke Mix

Just as training should be consistent throughout your dog’s lifetime, so should socialization. Although the Shih Tzu Peke Mix is known as a family-oriented and loving dog, he could also be prone to wariness with strangers or those he doesn’t know.

The Pekingese in particular is a breed that is more devoted to his family and less friendly with outsiders, and it is possible that your Shih Tzu Peke Mix could inherit this trait.

To help combat this, it’s best to begin socializing your Shih Tzu Peke Mix early on in puppyhood. Introduce him to as many new experiences, people, places, and things as possible and try and ensure first impressions are positive for him.

Avoid forcing your Shih Tzu Peke Mix into an experience that is stressful or scary for him. This could cause your dog to become even more frightened and exasperate behavioral issues down the road.

Instead, use training treats, gentle encouragement, and patience while allowing your Shih Tzu Peke Mix to explore the world at his own pace.

The Shih Tzu Peke – Tips On Grooming And Basic Care

Grooming maintenance for your Shih Tzu Peke could depend on the coat type he inherits.

Both the purebred Shih Tzu and the purebred Pekingese are known for their lush, long coats. However, the Shih Tzu is a hypoallergenic dog while the Pekingese has long, flowing hair that sheds.

Your Shih Tzu Peke Mix could inherit either one of these coats, or he could have a coat that is a mix of each. Either way, grooming should be consistent with this type of dog, as it will be important in not only keeping him looking his best but feeling his best as well.

Because owners cannot show their Shih Tzu Peke Mix, many opt to keep their coats trimmed short in a puppy cut. This makes their coat easier to manage and reduces the chances of tangles and mats. Still, even with a shorter coat, your Shih Tzu Peke Mix should be brushed routinely at least once or twice a week.

He should also have his ears cleaned and checked to keep them free of waxy buildup, moisture, or debris that could lead to ear infections, and his nails should be trimmed or ground down regularly to keep them from cracking or splitting.

Bathing should be done routinely, about once every two to three weeks. The Shih Tzu Peke Mix can be prone to suffering from skin issues and allergies, so it will be important to use a quality dog shampoo specified for canine use. Avoid shampoos that contain dyes, alcohols, parabens, or other ingredients and additives that could strip your Shih Tzu Peke Mix dog’s coat of the natural oils it produces.

We also suggest investing in eye care grooming essentials for your Shih Tzu Peke Mix. This is because this little dog can be prone to several eye-related health issues. If your dog is lighter in color, you might also want to have tear-stain remover on hand.

Angel’s Eyes Tear Stain Wipes

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We recommend investing in the presoaked wipes above for your Shih Tzu Peke Mix because they are easy to use, gentle and safe for your dog. They come in 100 pre-soaked wipes that are textured and saturated in a safe solution that helps reduce irritation and itching in your dog’s eyes.

They are so safe to you use that you can begin using them on your Shih Tzu Peke Mix during puppyhood.

You do not need to wash or rinse your dog’s face after using these wipes, and you can use them as often as needed.

The Health And Lifespan Of A Shih Tzu Peke Dog

Considered a brachycephalic mix, the Shih Tzu Peke can be prone to some serious health issues.

Although the Shih Tzu Peke Mix can have a decent lifespan of between 10 to 15 years, and while this dog does have the benefit of hybrid vigor, he can also be prone to several serious genetic health issues.

Because the Shih Tzu Peke Mix dog is a crossbreed, it can be difficult to predict which health issues he may be most at risk for. However, you can get a good idea by taking a closer look at the health issues of both of his parent breeds.

The most common health issues a Shih Tzu Peke Mix dog is predisposed to, according to experts, include:

• Intervertebral Disc Disease
• Dry Eye
• Corneal Ulcers
• Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome
• Entropion
• Patellar Luxation
• Kidney Stones
• Mitral Valve Disease
• Cleft Lip
• Cleft Palat
• Skin Fold Pyoderma
• Overheating
• Obesity
• Ear Infections
• Otitis Externa
• Skin Fold Pyoderma
• Mouth Abscesses
• And Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome

What You Should Know About Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome

The Shih Tzu Peke Mix is a flat-faced breed, and the unique shape of his skull has led to several breathing difficulties known as Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome. This can lead to an increased risk of heatstroke, exercise exhaustion, and breathing problems, as well as other respiratory issues in your dog.

To ensure your Shih Tzu Peke Mix is healthy, monitor him during exercise. Avoid exercising your Shih Tzu Peke Mix in extreme heat or cold.

Other Tips On Keeping Your Shih Tzu Peke Mix Healthy And Happy

The Shih Tzu Peke Mix dog’s unique skull shape also means he may have a more difficult time eating and digesting food. You can help ensure your Shih Tzu Peke Mix is healthy by offering him a quality dog food specified for his age, weight, and activity level.

The Shih Tzu Peke Mix can be prone to obesity, which can further exasperate health issues and problems with his respiratory system.

It’s important to keep your Shih Tzu Peke Mix in shape and to ensure he is on healthy dog food that is free of additives, byproducts, corn, soy, wheat, or gluten to ensure your Shih Tzu Peke Mix is properly and routinely exercised.

The Shih Tzu Peke Mix may do best on a wet or raw dog food, but he can also do well on kibble that is small and shaped to help him better chew and swallow.

We also suggest that you keep up with routine vet visits, and try and make sure your Shih Tzu Peke Mix is routinely seen at least once a year until he is about seven or eight. At that point, he should be seen for checkups twice a year.

Is The Shih Tzu Peke Right For You? How To Find A Healthy Puppy Or Dog

These dogs make excellent companions for owners with a flexible schedule.

While the Shih Tzu Peke Mix is a popular and beloved hybrid, it can also be prone to many serious health issues.

You can combat these health issues by following some of our tips and tricks above, but one of the best ways to ensure you raise a healthy dog is to get your puppy or rescue from a reputable source.

Have you decided that the Shih Tzu Peke Mix is the right dog for you? If so, it’s important to go through a responsible breeder who has a history of breeding and selling this type of hybrid.

Avoid backyard breeders, online sellers, or uncertified sellers who cannot provide you with proper paperwork.

Remember that a good breeder will be able to provide you with paperwork proving your puppy has been screened and cleared of any serious health issues. It’s also important to avoid breeders who are selling Shih Tzu Peke Mix puppies for much more or much less than they are worth.

If you prefer to rescue a Shih Tzu Peke Mix, you may be able to find the dog of your dreams in breed-specific shelters. Hybrid dogs like the Shih Tzu Peke Mix are becoming increasingly popular, so finding one in a shelter could prove difficult. However, it’s not impossible, and there are plenty of dogs in need of a loving and devoted home.

Adopting a dog comes with plenty of benefits, including finding an adult dog whose coat, temperament, and health issues are more established.

You may also be able to rescue a dog that has already been spayed, neutered, or microchipped, and oftentimes shelters will have their dogs undergo basic behavioral testing before putting them up for adoption.

Remember, whichever route you choose to take with your Shih Tzu Peke Mix is up to you. The important thing is that you do your research, have a plan, and enjoy the journey!

Are you on a mission to get a Shih Tzu Peke Mix? Tell us below in the comments.