How Big Do Shih Tzu Pomeranian Mix Get: Complete Growth Guide

My Experience with Shih Tzu Pomeranian Mix Dogs

Remember that time I got my very first Shih Tzu Pomeranian mix? Oh man, what a whirlwind that was! Louie—yep, that’s right, my little ball of fluff was called Louie. I adopted him when he was just 2 months old. My good friend Jane from the animal shelter gave me the nudge, and there I was, instantly smitten with his tiny paws and button-like eyes.

What’s the Deal with Shih Tzu Pomeranian Mixes?

So, if you’re curious about how big these little buddies get, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. First off, Shih Tzu Pomeranian mixes, often called Shih-Poms, are a hybrid breed. This means that you’ll see traits from both parents, and their size can vary a bit. To put it simply, they don’t come with a one-size-fits-all guarantee. That’s part of the charm, isn’t it?

Size Expectations and Growth Timeline

When Louie was young, I was always wondering just how big he’d get. It’s kinda like a guessing game! Generally speaking, a Shih-Pom won’t get much larger than 7 to 15 pounds. They’re usually 7-12 inches tall at the shoulder. But, of course, there can be outliers. I mean, I heard this one story of a Shih-Pom reaching nearly 20 pounds! That’s rare though.

Puppyhood

As puppies, these mixes are incredibly tiny, often weighing just 1-2 pounds when you first bring them home. Louie was barely over a pound—honestly, he could fit in the palm of my hand. He smelled like fresh laundry and a hint of puppy kibble. Adorable, right?

Adolescence

Around 6 months, expect a bit of a growth spurt. Louie shot up to 8 pounds pretty quickly before leveling off. I remember fretting over his food a lot during this time. Was I feeding him too much or too little? It’s a fine line!

Adulthood

By the time they’re a year old, they usually reach their full size. Louie didn’t gain much weight after his first birthday. He capped at around 10 pounds, the perfect lap dog size if you ask me. Still, individual growth can differ.

Influencing Factors

Now, the size of your Shih-Pom can depend on a few elements:

Genetics

The size of the parents plays a crucial role. If the Pomeranian side of the family was particularly small, your Shih-Pom is likely to take after that. Conversely, if the Shih Tzu parent was on the larger side, you might end up with a bigger dog.

Diet

A well-balanced diet is essential for any growing pup. Louie had a bit of a picky palate, beleive it or not. We went through a whole bunch of different kibble types before he settled on a brand. Make sure your furry friend gets all the nutrients they need to grow properly.

Exercise

Like people, dogs need activity to stay fit and healthy. Regular walks and playtime can help control their weight. However, over-exercising a small breed can lead to issues like joint problems. Be mindful of their limits.

Health Considerations

Shih-Poms, due to their small stature, are susceptible to certain health concerns. Regular vet visits are a must. Louie had a couple of ear infections early on, common among breeds with floppy ears. But hey, that didn’t stop us from having a good time.

Dental Issues

Small breed dogs tend to have more dental problems. Keeping Louie’s teeth clean was a bit of a challenge. Doggy toothpaste isn’t exactly his favorite.

Respiratory Issues

Both the Shih Tzu and Pomeranian breeds can have respiratory problems. Keep an eye out for any signs of difficulty in breathing.

Personality and Temperament

While the size varies, one thing’s for sure—Shih-Poms have larger-than-life personalities! Louie was always up to some mischief, tail wagging a-mile-a-minute, chasing shadows and barking at the occasional leaf that dared to flutter in our yard. Socialization is key to making sure these little firecrackers get along well with others.

Friendly and Social

Louie loved to meet new people—sometimes a bit too much. We had to work on not jumping up on guests, but he soon learned.

Independent yet Affectionate

Shih-Poms, like Louie, can be quite independent. They don’t always require constant attention, but when they want to snuggle, you better be ready to give your full attention.

Fun Fact

Did you know that both the Shih Tzu and Pomeranian breeds have royal histories? That’s right! Shih Tzus were bred by Chinese royalty, and Pomeranians have ties to European nobility.

Personal Touch

“To have a dog is to know joy.” That’s something my grandpa used to say. Louie certainly brought joy and a whole lot of love into my life. A fun personality in a compact package—what more could you ask for?

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Shih Tzu Pomeranian mix is a delightful, unpredictable bundle of joy. They may be small in size, but they’ll fill your home with love and laughter.

Thanks for taking the time to read my little insight into these adorable dogs. 🐾 If you’re considering a Shih-Pom, be ready for a loving companion that brings excitement into every day.

“May your days be as joyful as a dog with two tails!”