Fo-Tzu
Hybrid Breed Description
The Fo-Tzu is a cross between the Shih Tzu and the Toy Fox Terrier. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Fo-Tzu. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, compact toy dog standing between eight and eleven inches at the shoulder and weighing nine to sixteen pounds. This breed is slightly longer than it is tall, with a well-proportioned body that displays good balance and substance. The head is large and rounded with a broad skull, featuring prominent dark eyes that convey warmth and sweetness. The short, square muzzle includes a characteristic underbite, which is required in the breed standard. Their nose is black, and their expression radiates friendliness and trust. The breed's most distinctive feature is its luxurious double coat, consisting of a long, flowing outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat. The coat grows continuously and can sweep the floor if left unclipped, with hair on the head often tied up in a topknot or styled to create the characteristic chrysanthemum-like face. The coat comes in a wide variety of colors and combinations, including white, black, gray, gold, brown, and various parti-colors. Many Shih Tzus display a white blaze on their forehead, known as the Star of Buddha. The heavily furred tail curves gracefully over the back. As a brachycephalic breed, the Shih Tzu has a shortened muzzle and flattened face, contributing to their distinctive appearance. The large, floppy ears are covered with long hair that blends into the body coat. Despite their regal appearance, these dogs move with a smooth, flowing gait characterized by good reach and drive. Their proud carriage, with head held high and tail carried over the back, reflects their heritage as companions to Chinese royalty.
Key Characteristics
The Shih Tzu is renowned for its outgoing, happy, and affectionate temperament, making them excellent companions for individuals and families alike. These dogs are inherently friendly, loyal, and devoted to their owners, forming strong bonds with all family members. They possess a naturally cheerful disposition and seem to approach each day with enthusiasm and joy. Their loving nature means they thrive on human companionship and prefer to be included in family activities rather than left alone for extended periods. Shih Tzus are intelligent and can be trained effectively, though they may display a stubborn streak due to their proud, independent nature. This characteristic stems from their breeding as royal companions and requires patient, consistent training using positive reinforcement methods. They are eager to please when properly motivated and can learn tricks and commands readily. Early socialization helps them become well-adjusted, confident dogs who are comfortable in various situations. They generally get along well with children and other pets when introduced appropriately. While these dogs are alert and will bark to announce visitors, they are not aggressive and typically greet everyone with friendliness. Their playful, spirited nature makes them entertaining companions who enjoy interactive games and indoor play. Shih Tzus adapt well to apartment living and various household situations, provided their moderate exercise needs are met. They require relatively little outdoor activity but benefit from daily walks and play sessions. Their sensitivity means they respond poorly to harsh training methods, preferring gentle guidance and encouragement from their beloved family members.
The Shih Tzu has a moderate lifespan averaging ten to sixteen years, with many individuals living longer with proper care. As a brachycephalic breed, they are predisposed to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, which can cause breathing difficulties, especially in hot or humid weather. This condition may include stenotic nares, elongated soft palate, and tracheal hypoplasia, potentially requiring surgical intervention in severe cases. Owners must monitor their Shih Tzus carefully during exercise and warm weather to prevent respiratory distress. Periodontal disease represents one of the most common health concerns in this breed due to overcrowding of teeth in their small mouths. Regular dental care, including daily brushing and professional cleanings, is essential for preventing tooth loss and associated systemic problems. Eye problems are particularly prevalent, including keratitis, corneal ulceration, proptosis (eye displacement), and progressive retinal atrophy. The prominent eyes require regular monitoring and cleaning to prevent infections and injury. Orthopedic issues such as patellar luxation and hip dysplasia can affect mobility and quality of life, though they are less common than in larger breeds. Intervertebral disc disease may occur due to the breed's long back, causing pain, weakness, or paralysis if discs herniate. Other health concerns include ear infections due to their long, floppy ears, allergies causing skin irritation, and umbilical hernias. Regular veterinary check-ups, maintaining a healthy weight, and providing appropriate grooming and care help manage these potential issues and ensure a good quality of life for affected dogs.
Toy Fox Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier presents a well-balanced, athletic appearance despite its diminutive size, standing between eight and a half to eleven and a half inches tall and weighing four to nine pounds. This breed exhibits a square proportion when viewed from the side, with height approximately equal to length. The head is distinctive with an elegant, moderately wedge-shaped skull that widens gradually from the nose to the base of the ears. Their round, dark eyes convey an alert, intelligent expression, while the characteristic large, erect, V-shaped ears sit high and close together without touching. The body displays a muscular, athletic build with a level topline and deep chest with well-sprung ribs. The breed possesses strong, straight legs with moderate bone structure, maintaining an agile appearance without appearing fine or coarse. Their small, oval feet have well-arched toes, and the high-set tail is carried gaily over the back. The neck is slightly arched and muscular, fitting smoothly into well-laid-back shoulders at approximately forty-five degrees. The Toy Fox Terrier's coat is short, smooth, and satiny with a fine texture and glossy sheen. The breed is predominantly white with striking patches of color, typically appearing as tricolor combinations of black, tan, and white, or bicolor patterns of white with tan or black. The coat lies close to the body, requiring minimal grooming while maintaining its sleek appearance. Their overall appearance exudes confidence and grace, with a characteristic springy gait that demonstrates effortless movement and athletic capability.
Key Characteristics
The Toy Fox Terrier displays a spirited, affectionate temperament that perfectly blends terrier courage with toy dog devotion. These highly intelligent dogs rank among the most trainable breeds, learning commands quickly and excelling in obedience and agility competitions. Their keen intelligence, however, requires consistent mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related behaviors. They possess a confident, sometimes bold personality that makes them believe they are much larger than their actual size, approaching life with fearless determination. This breed forms exceptionally strong bonds with their families and thrives on human companionship. They are devoted, loyal companions who love to be involved in family activities and prefer not to be left alone for extended periods. While naturally independent at times, they enjoy cuddling and staying close to their owners. Toy Fox Terriers are generally friendly toward people when properly socialized, though they may be initially reserved with strangers. Their alert nature and tendency to bark make them excellent watchdogs despite their small stature. These energetic little dogs maintain high activity levels and require regular exercise and play to stay happy and healthy. They love interactive games, fetch, and learning new tricks. Their terrier heritage means they possess a strong prey drive and may chase small animals, requiring supervision outdoors. While they generally get along well with children, their small size makes them better suited for families with older, respectful children who understand how to handle small dogs gently. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training help develop well-adjusted, confident companions.
The Toy Fox Terrier is generally a healthy breed with an average lifespan of thirteen to fifteen years. However, like all breeds, they are predisposed to certain health conditions that require monitoring. Patellar luxation is one of the most common orthopedic issues, occurring when the kneecap dislocates from its normal position. This condition can cause pain, lameness, and difficulty walking, with treatment ranging from weight management and physical therapy to surgical correction in severe cases. Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease represents another orthopedic concern specific to small breeds, resulting from degeneration of the femoral head due to inadequate blood supply. Signs include limping and pain in the affected leg, typically appearing in young dogs. Surgical intervention often provides the best outcome for severely affected animals. Primary lens luxation, an inherited eye condition, can occur when the lens moves from its normal position, potentially causing pain and blindness if left untreated. The breed is prone to von Willebrand's Disease, a blood clotting disorder that can cause abnormal bleeding during injuries or surgeries. DNA testing allows responsible breeders to avoid producing affected puppies. Congenital hypothyroidism, while rare, can affect puppies and requires early diagnosis for proper management. Toy Fox Terriers may also experience dental issues due to their small mouths, necessitating regular dental care including brushing and professional cleanings. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for preventing obesity-related complications. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care help identify potential issues early when they are most treatable.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Fo-Tzu may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Shih Tzu and Toy Fox Terrier to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.