The BoShih is a charming and delightful mixed breed dog, resulting from the cross between a Boston Terrier and a Shih Tzu. This small and inquisitive dog has won the hearts of many for its lovable, curious, and cheerful nature. Weighing around 10-20 pounds, BoShih dogs are perfect for families with children, first-time pet owners, and those living in apartments.
Originating from a blend of an All-American Boston Terrier and a noble Chinese Shih Tzu, the BoShih carries traits from both its parent breeds. Their medium to long-haired coats come in various colors like black, white, brown, and grey, thanks to the mix of their parents’ coats. As a mixed breed, predicting their temperament can be challenging, as it could be a combination of any characteristics found in either Boston Terriers or Shih-Tzus.
Key Takeaways
- BoShih is a mixed breed dog, a cross between a Boston Terrier and a Shih Tzu
- These dogs are perfect for families with children, first-time pet owners, and apartment dwellers
- BoShih dogs have medium to long-haired coats in various colors, inherited from their parent breeds
Boshih Origin
The Boshih is a mixed breed dog, often referred to as a designer breed, that is a cross between the Boston Terrier and the Shih Tzu. The primary goal of creating this crossbreed was to combine the best traits of both parent breeds, resulting in a friendly, energetic, and loving companion.
The Boston Terrier, one of the Boshih’s parent breeds, originated in Boston, Massachusetts, in the late 18th century. This breed is known as the “All American Dog” or “American Gentleman” due to its exclusively American origins. Boston Terriers were originally created by breeding English Terriers and Bulldogs, with a significant influence from a dog named Judge, who played a crucial role in the development of the Boston Terrier breed standard.
On the other hand, the Shih Tzu, the other parent of the Boshih, has a long history dating back over 1000 years, originating in China. It is believed that Shih Tzus were bred by Chinese royalty as companion dogs and considered a prized possession due to their elegant appearance and affectionate nature. The breed made its way to the Western world in the early 20th century and quickly gained popularity as a beloved pet.
Now, as a crossbreed, the Boshih has begun to establish its own unique identity separate from its parent breeds. These dogs are typically small, weighing between 10-20 pounds, with medium to long-haired coats that come in a variety of colors, such as black, white, brown, and grey. The Boshih’s coat patterns are often a blend of the parent breeds, making each Boshih visually unique.
As a hybrid breed, the Boshih is known for its friendly, curious, and cheerful disposition, making it an ideal pet for families with children, first-time pet owners, and those living in apartments. Additionally, the Boshih benefits from its parent breeds’ intelligence and adaptability, making it an excellent candidate for obedience training and various dog sports.
Size and Appearance
The BoShih is a mixed breed dog, a cross between the Shih Tzu and Boston Terrier breeds. They have a small and compact size, making them an adorable addition to any family. Adult BoShihs typically stand between 12 to 16 inches in height at the shoulders and weigh between 10 to 20 pounds. It’s worth noting that males tend to be slightly larger than their female counterparts.
When it comes to the coat of this lovely breed, it usually ranges from medium to long in length and is predominantly straight. The texture of their fur is soft to the touch and they come in various colors, including brown, black, white, tricolor, and other combinations. This diverse range of hues and patterns result from blending the coats of their Shih Tzu and Boston Terrier parents.
The appearance of a BoShih’s ears tends to be inquisitive and alert, contributing to their friendly demeanor. Their ears may be somewhat floppy, which makes them even more endearing. They also have big, expressive eyes that can seem curious and cheerful all at once.
Breed Registries
The BoShih dog, a hybrid breed resulting from a mix of Boston Terrier and Shih Tzu, has been recognized by several breed registries. These organizations serve to maintain standards and documentation for crossbreed dogs like the BoShih. Below is a list of some of the prominent registries that have recognized the BoShih dog breed:
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American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC): This registry is dedicated to the promotion and acknowledgment of hybrid dog breeds. Their mission is to provide breeders and owners with accurate and up-to-date information on these unique dogs. The ACHC recognizes BoShih as a valid hybrid breed.
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Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC): This organization is focused on the development and documentation of designer dog breeds. They aim to promote responsible breeding, health standards, and behavioral traits. The DDKC also recognizes the BoShih as a legitimate crossbreed.
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International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR): As the world’s largest designer dog registry, the IDCR works to provide breeders, owners, and enthusiasts with comprehensive information about all designer breeds. Their goal is to promote responsible breeding practices and healthy crossbreed dogs like the BoShih.
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Dog Registry of America (DRA): The DRA is a non-profit organization that recognizes purebred, hybrid, and mixed breeds, aiming to ensure that they meet high standards of health, appearance, and temperament. The BoShih is recognized as a hybrid breed by the DRA.
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Designer Breed Registry (DBR): This registry focuses on the recognition, documentation, and promotion of designer and rare breed dogs, including hybrids like the BoShih. The DBR supports responsible breeding practices and the development of healthy, well-tempered dogs.
Each of these registries maintains its own standards and documentation, making it essential for breeders and owners to adhere to their guidelines and registration processes. By being registered through these organizations, BoShih dogs can be more easily identified, tracked, and promoted as a distinct breed, contributing to the overall improved health and wellbeing of this unique hybrid.
Temperament
The BoShih, a mixed breed that results from crossing a Boston Terrier and a Shih Tzu, boasts a temperament that is both confident and friendly. Their cheerful and curious nature makes them highly adaptable and great companions for families with children, apartment dwellers, and beginner pet owners.
Inheriting the lively and playful character from their Boston Terrier parent, BoShihs are energetic dogs that love to engage in games and activities. They are known to be gentle, making them a suitable choice for households with younger children. Being loyal to their families, they create strong emotional bonds with their owners.
While BoShihs inherit the alertness of the Boston Terrier, they are not typically excessive barkers. They may bark occasionally to communicate or alert their owners to unusual sounds or occurrences that they find intriguing. However, their barking is generally not considered a nuisance, and with proper training, it can be managed effectively.
The friendly and sociable nature of the BoShih makes them well-suited to meeting and interacting with new people and other dogs. Their gentle and affectionate demeanor allows them to create a welcoming and warm environment for anyone they encounter.
In summary, the temperament of the BoShih includes being:
- Confident
- Friendly
- Playful
- Loyal
- Alert
- Gentle
- Lively
With these traits, BoShihs make for wonderful pets that are easy to love and enjoy spending time with. Their adaptable and engaging character ensures they fit effortlessly into most lifestyles, providing endless fun and companionship for their lucky owners.
Compatibility with Families
BoShihs are well known for their compatibility with families, making them a popular choice as a family pet. These dogs are naturally affectionate, loving, and loyal, which makes them great companion animals for people of all ages. They enjoy being around humans, and with their friendly demeanor, they quickly become an integral part of the family.
When it comes to children, BoShihs are typically very kid-friendly. Their energetic nature and playful attitude make them a great match for younger family members who can engage them in activities and keep them entertained. BoShihs are known to be gentle with kids, but it’s always important to supervise any interactions to ensure the safety and well-being of both the children and the dog.
Families who live in apartments or smaller living spaces will find that BoShihs can adapt well to their environment. These adaptable dogs can thrive in any setting as long as they receive enough attention and affection from their owners. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are essential for keeping these dogs happy and healthy, even in smaller living spaces.
BoShihs are incredibly affectionate with their family, enjoying cuddles and spending quality time with their loved ones. Giving these dogs plenty of attention will ensure that they remain content and well-adjusted. In return, their loyalty and love will be a constant source of joy for their family.
Training and Exercise
The BoShih is an intelligent breed, thanks to the combined traits of its Boston Terrier and Shih Tzu parents. For successful training, it is essential to maintain a regular routine and incorporate positive reinforcement techniques. Rewarding good behavior with treats and praise encourages BoShih dogs to learn new commands and develop obedience skills.
BoShih dogs have moderate energy levels and will require a fair amount of exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks on a leash and supervised off-leash time in a secure, fenced yard are ideal ways to help your BoShih burn off excess energy. Although they are active and energetic, BoShih dogs can also adapt well to apartment living, provided they have sufficient opportunities for indoor play and exercise.
Consistency is key when it comes to both training and exercise for the BoShih. Establishing a regular schedule for walks and training sessions will help your dog understand what is expected of them and will also meet their need for structure and routine. Due to their intelligence and curiosity, BoShih dogs may benefit from mental stimulation in addition to physical exercise. Puzzle toys, interactive games, and basic obedience training can engage their minds and help prevent boredom.
Keep in mind that every BoShih is an individual, and energy levels may vary depending on factors such as age, health, and temperament. Regular monitoring and adjusting your dog’s exercise and training needs will ensure they stay healthy, well-behaved, and content. While training and exercising your BoShih, always remember the importance of patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement to foster a strong bond between you and your canine companion.
Grooming and Care
Taking care of a BoShih involves regular grooming to keep their medium to long-haired coat healthy and free from tangles. It’s important to brush their coat daily to prevent matting and distribute natural oils evenly. Though they may not shed as heavily as some other breeds, consistent brushing also helps in managing shedding.
BoShih’s nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. Using a dog nail clipper, trim the nails every few weeks or as needed. Be cautious to avoid cutting the quick, as it may cause bleeding and pain for your pet.
Dental care is another crucial aspect of grooming and general care for a BoShih. Daily brushing of their teeth with a dog-specific toothpaste and toothbrush can help reduce plaque buildup, prevent gum diseases, and minimize bad breath. In addition to at-home care, scheduling professional dental cleanings with your vet is also advised to maintain optimal oral health.
Though BoShihs may not be categorized as easy to groom due to their daily brushing requirement, proper and consistent care will ensure they stay clean, comfortable, and healthy. By attending to your BoShih’s coat, nails, and teeth, you can create a strong grooming routine that enhances the bond between you and your pet while keeping them looking and feeling their best.
Health and Lifespan
BoShih dogs are generally healthy and have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. As a crossbreed between Boston Terrier and Shih Tzu, they inherit traits from both parent breeds, which can impact their overall health. To ensure their well-being, regular vet checkups and preventative care are vital.
One of the common health issues affecting BoShihs is patellar luxation. This condition occurs when the kneecap temporarily slips out of its natural position, causing pain and lameness. Although it can be managed through weight control and anti-inflammatory medication, severe cases may require surgery.
BoShihs are also prone to reverse sneezing. This non-harmful condition can be alarming for owners, as it involves a sudden, spasmodic inhalation of air through the nose. It occurs due to irritation of the nasal passages and can be triggered by allergies, excitement, or even rapid temperature changes.
Allergies are another common issue in BoShihs. They can suffer from food, environmental, or contact allergies, which may cause skin irritations, itching, and inflammation. To manage allergies, it’s essential to identify and eliminate the allergens and provide appropriate medication and topical treatments.
Eye problems, such as cherry eye or cataracts, can affect BoShihs due to their brachycephalic facial structure. Monitoring your dog’s eyes for redness, irritation, or discharge and seeking prompt treatment can help prevent complications and preserve their vision.
To maintain your BoShih’s health, it’s crucial to provide a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper grooming. Make sure to monitor their weight, as obesity can exacerbate existing conditions or cause new ones. Additionally, routine dental care to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease is vital.
Adopting a Boshih Dog
If you’re considering welcoming a new pet into your home, a Boshih dog might just be the perfect addition. This mixed breed dog, affectionately known as a Boston Terrier and Shih Tzu mix, has a charming personality and an adaptable nature that makes it suitable for many living situations. When adopting a Boshih dog, it’s essential to understand their unique needs and traits to ensure their long and happy life with you.
Begin your search by checking shelters and breed-specific rescues. Many mixed breed dogs, like the Boshih, can be found at these locations, making adoption both an affordable and responsible choice. While you’re searching, keep in mind that the needs of small dogs like the Boshih may not be as apparent as those of larger breeds, so don’t hesitate to ask the staff for advice and support.
When it comes to care, the Boshih dog has a few specific needs that you should be aware of. The breed tends to be prone to separation anxiety, so you should be prepared to spend some quality time with your new pet, especially during the initial adjustment period. In addition, their small size makes them more susceptible to injury, so ensure that young children or other family members know how to handle them gently and responsibly.
One of the advantages of adopting a Boshih dog is that they’re suitable for various household types, including those with retired seniors or novice owners. This breed’s cheerful and lovable nature makes it a delightful companion for individuals of all ages and experience levels. Additionally, their adaptability means that they can comfortably live in apartments or more extensive living spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the personality of a Boshih dog?
Boshih dogs are known for their curious, cheerful, affectionate, energetic, and loyal temperament. They make great companions for families with children, apartment dwellers, and beginner pet owners. Like all dogs, their personalities can vary, so it is essential to research and meet the specific dog before making a decision.
What breeds make up the Boshih?
The Boshih is a hybrid breed, combining the Boston Terrier and the Shih Tzu. The Boston Terrier is an intelligent and highly energetic dog, bred in Boston, Massachusetts. The Shih Tzu, on the other hand, hails from China and has been a companion to royalty for generations.
How much does a Boshih puppy typically cost?
The cost of a Boshih puppy can vary depending on factors like breeder reputation, location, and availability. In general, a Boshih puppy’s price can range from $500 to $1,500. It is essential to research reputable breeders to ensure the puppy is healthy and well-socialized.
What is the lifespan of a Boston Terrier Shih Tzu mix?
A Boston Terrier Shih Tzu mix, or Boshih, typically has a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Regular vet checkups, a balanced diet, and proper exercise can contribute to a healthy life for these dogs.
How do Boshih dogs get along with other pets?
Boshih dogs usually get along well with other pets, especially when properly socialized from a young age. However, it is essential to monitor interactions between pets and ensure they are introduced gradually, giving each animal time to adjust to the presence of others.
What are common health issues in Boshih dogs?
Some common health issues in Boshih dogs may include eye problems, allergies, hip dysplasia, and respiratory concerns. As with any breed, regular preventative care and medical attention when necessary can help maintain a healthy and happy Boshih.