Shih Tzu Pomeranian Mix – The Shiranian [Shi Pom]
These dogs are a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Pomeranian. They have been around since the 1990s, but they have only recently become popular as designer dogs.
Other recognized names for this dog include the Shih-Pom, Shih A Pom, and the Pom-Tzu. These dogs are bred for their small size, playful personality, and ability to get along well with children and other pets. Although they are not recognized by the Kennel Clubs, the Shiranian has become a popular pet in recent years.
They are, however, recognized by:
- Designer Breed Registry
- Dog Registry of America, Inc.
- American Canine Hybrid Club
- Designer Dogs Kennel Club
- International Designer Canine Registry
- Designer Dogs Kennel Club
Thanks to their loving nature and cute appearance, these dogs make great companions for families with small children or seniors looking for a low-maintenance pet.
Overall, the Shiranian is an excellent choice for those looking for a small, affectionate dog.
Veterinarian Charlotte Stiles (DVM)
Appearance
The Shiranian is a tiny dog that weighs 4 to 16 pounds on average, with the maximum being somewhat larger than a modern Pomeranian. Both of its parent breeds have medium to lengthy double-coated fur.
They have silky fur that is generally straight, although it may be wavy like the Pomeranian. They come in a range of colors, including red, black, brindle, chocolate, orange, sable, and multi-color.
They have small muzzles, big brown or black eyes, and floppy ears. In addition, they have a tiny black nose, and their tails generally curl over their backs. Despite being little dogs, they have robust bodies with strong legs between 7 and 10 inches tall.
Temperament
The personality of the Shiranian is a combination of the Shih Tzu and Pomeranian. This designer dog is intelligent, pleasant, and sociable. They are loving, affectionate dogs that enjoy being with their family, but they can get anxious if left alone for too long.
If you are adopting a Shiraninan puppy, it is essential to know that training will be required at an early age. This dog breed has difficulty being alone for extended periods. If you’re a single parent who spends eight hours at work every day, your pup will be stressed out.
Although they are very energetic and lively, these dogs are easy to train since they are quick learners who take instructions with a positive attitude. Unfortunately, they don’t bark unless necessary, making them unsuitable for guard duty because they’re too friendly and approachable.
The Shiranian is a wonderful companion animal for an older person seeking a pet. If you have the time to properly train your pup, it will be a loving and loyal companion for years to come.
Is the Shiranian a Good Family Dog?
A Shiranian may make an excellent pet for the family. Still, not every family is prepared to deal with this breed. Because they are such small dogs, Shiranians weigh very little.
If you have toddlers who aren’t used to dealing with a tiny dog, your puppy might be in danger.
Younger children may be unaware of the fragility of a tiny dog like the Shiranian. If you think you can adequately educate your children about small dog welfare, the Shiranian could be a wonderful addition to your family. There’s no need to be concerned that this dog will be aggressive or harmful to your kids; the risk comes from the kids instead.
Shiranian is a great match if you have kids that are older since they enjoy people. A home with lots of individuals visiting frequently would be an excellent place for a Shiranian. It’s also critical to have a few people at home to ensure your dog gets enough activity.
How is a Shiranian Around Other Pets?
Other pets should be introduced and trained as soon as possible after birth so that they can get along well together. If you have several pets, your Shiranian may benefit from having a companion.
Having another pet at home while you’re away is a good idea for Shiranians, who commonly have separation anxiety.
Ideal Environment
Shiranians are very adaptable to different lifestyles and living situations. Of course, they do best in a home with a backyard where they can run and play, but they’re also content to live in an apartment as long as they’re given plenty of attention and exercise.
These dogs can live in any climate, but they prefer warm weather and do not tolerate cold well. They also like to be around people and should not be left alone for long periods.
Health Concerns
The Shiranian isn’t a breed that has a lot of health issues, for the most part. However, they may inherit problems typical of their parent breeds, such as hypoglycemia and cataracts from the Pomeranian and hypothyroidism and allergies from the Shih Tzu, among other things.
The Shiranian, on the other hand, is not impacted by these problems. It’s critical to have routine checkups with a veterinarian (particularly as your dog gets older) to guarantee any potential health concerns are detected and addressed promptly.
Grooming
Because of the crossbreeding, your dog’s hair on its Shiranian will be different in length. The majority of the time, Shiranians are thought to have long hair. It’a best to brush your dog’s hair daily.
Brushing their coat regularly keeps it looking and feeling fabulous.
The ears of the Shirani are tiny and liable to get filthy quickly. Therefore, check your dog’s ears regularly and take them to your vet if you think they need cleaning or you spot a problem.
The Shiranians are also susceptible to dental troubles. Brushing your dog’s teeth every day from a young age, and taking them for annual dental checks can help.
Long-term dental problems can lead to other health issues as well.
You don’t want to go crazy when bathing your Pomeranian Shih Tzu Mix. Bathing too frequently can cause the skin and coat’s natural oils to dry up and should only be done if absolutely necessary.
After the bath, make sure to brush their hair completely so that mats and tangles don’t form.
Nutrition Requirements
A Shiranian is classified as a small dog, and needs a diet for a tiny breed. If you overfeed a Shiranian, it will soon gain weight. It’s best to get advice from your veterinarian on how much nutrition your pet requires.
For example, a dog weighing four pounds may require food in different quantities than a dog that weighs 10 pounds.
A Shiranian does well on high-quality dry kibble or wet food when it comes to food. However, it’s essential to buy food made for tiny breeds since it has all the nutrients required in smaller quantities and in suitable sizes. Your veterinarian can advise you on what food is best for your pet.
Exercise Requirements
The Shiranian is a moderately active breed that has the same level of activity as most people require in their daily lives. For example, your dog will probably want to go walking every day, perhaps about a mile long. Because Shiranians do not need much space to run, they do well in confined environments.
A backyard is not required for this breed to get the exercise it needs, but if you have one, your dog will probably enjoy playing there. Shiranians are known to be very playful and need a good amount of toys to keep them occupied.
Toys that are small enough to be carried around in their mouths are ideal since these dogs do not like to share their toys with other dogs. Balls and chew toys are also good choices.
Even if you don’t have a large backyard, you can still offer a great home for this breed. The Shiranian is not a highly active dog, but they still need some activity to maintain an ideal weight.
Training
Shiranians are clever creatures, but they’re obstinate when learning new things. So when teaching your Shiranian, be patient, especially if it involves potty training. The best thing though is that whether or not they’re frustrating, your best friend will make you smile.
This is a dog that responds best to positive reinforcement training methods. Food rewards, verbal praise, and petting are great ways to show your dog that they’re doing something right.
Remember to be consistent when training your Shiranian. They will quickly learn what they can and cannot get away with if the rules are consistently enforced in the same way.
Obedience training may benefit Shiranians, and it aids in socialization from the start. When dealing with a Shiranian, you must use positive reinforcement when training. They want to be your friend and make you happy with their conduct.
Therefore positive reinforcement will be necessary.
Conclusion
The Shiranian is a beautiful designer breed that is energetic and loving. The Shiranian will want to be with you all the time and will become upset if you’re gone for long periods of time. If you’re at home a lot, this is the ideal companion.
A Shiranian will be no more difficult to care for than other little dogs, and their energy is just right. Overall, this dog breed has few health or behavioral issues.
Hopefully, our article provided you with all the information you need to determine whether the Shiranian is ideal for you and the rest of your family.
