Beagle Shih Tzu Mix
Beagle Shih Tzu Mix – A Unique and Adorable Hybrid Dog
The Beagle Shih Tzu mix, also known as the Shigle or Shih Tzu Beagle Mix, is a charming hybrid that inherits traits from both the Beagle and the Shih Tzu. This small to medium-sized breed is known for its affectionate nature, intelligence, and playful temperament, making it an excellent companion dog. With a combination of the Beagle’s tracking abilities and the Shih Tzu’s friendly personality, this mixed breed offers the best of both worlds.
This hybrid is becoming increasingly popular among dog lovers due to its adaptable nature and manageable size. Whether you live in an apartment or a house with a backyard, the Beagle and Shih Tzu mix can fit well into different living situations. If you’re looking for a loving, loyal, and intelligent companion, this breed might be the perfect addition to your family.
Beagle Shih Tzu mix puppies are small, energetic, and incredibly affectionate. They inherit a mix of their parent breeds’ features, often having floppy ears like a Beagle and a soft, fluffy coat like a Shih Tzu. Their intelligence makes them relatively easy to train, although they may have a stubborn streak inherited from both parent breeds.
Socialization is crucial at an early age to ensure that they grow into well-mannered adults. These puppies thrive on human companionship and enjoy playing with children and other pets. Proper training and early exposure to various environments will help shape their temperament and behavior positively.
Breed Traits
Temperament: Friendly, affectionate, intelligent Energy Level: Moderate Trainability: Easy to moderate Grooming Needs: Moderate Best For: Families, singles, apartment dwellers
The Beagle Shih Tzu mix has a lifespan of 12-15 years, depending on diet, exercise, and overall care. Providing regular vet check-ups and a healthy lifestyle ensures longevity.
This mix typically grows to a height of 10 to 16 inches, depending on whether they take after the Beagle or the Shih Tzu more.
The Beagle and Shih Tzu mix weighs between 15 to 30 pounds, making them an ideal size for both small and large homes.
This breed thrives in a loving home with moderate space. They adapt well to apartment living as long as they get daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Breed Characteristics
Affectionate and friendly with family members. Curious like a Beagle and playful like a Shih Tzu. Good watchdog, alerting owners to strangers.
This mix is an excellent family dog, known for being gentle with children and friendly with other pets.
- Floppy ears (from the Beagle side)
- Soft and wavy fur (like a Shih Tzu)
- Compact build, making them easy to manage
The Shih Tzu Beagle mix is highly social, enjoying human interaction and playtime. They can be a bit independent but love companionship.
- Intelligent yet stubborn at times
- Affectionate and people-oriented
- Energetic, needing daily exercise
Training this mix requires patience and consistency. They respond well to positive reinforcement and early training. Housebreaking may take some time due to the Shih Tzu’s stubborn streak.
Beagle Shih Tzu Mix History & Facts
The Beagle Shih Tzu mix is a relatively new hybrid breed, combining the scent-tracking abilities of the Beagle with the Shih Tzu’s companionship traits. This mix gained popularity as a designer dog, perfect for those seeking a small yet playful pet.
They are excellent trackers – thanks to the Beagle’s strong sense of smell.
Their coat can vary – some inherit the Shih Tzu’s long fur, while others have a shorter coat.
They love food – making training with treats very effective.
They are affectionate lap dogs – thriving on human interaction.
They can be vocal – a mix of the Beagle’s baying and the Shih Tzu’s alert barking.
The Beagle is commonly mixed with other breeds to create loving and adaptable companions. Some popular mixes include:
- Beagle Lab Mix – A mix of energy and friendliness.
- Beagle Yorkie Mix – A small and lively crossbreed.
- Beagle Dachshund Mix – Known for their loyalty and playfulness.
The Beagle Shih Tzu mix requires a nutritious diet rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. High-quality dry kibble for small-to-medium breeds is ideal, with ingredients like chicken, lamb, or fish to support muscle growth. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids from fish oil keep their coat shiny and skin healthy. Due to the Shih Tzu’s sensitivity to weight gain, portion control is essential. Feeding them twice daily with limited treats helps maintain a healthy weight. Adding carrots, blueberries, and sweet potatoes provides natural antioxidants. Always ensure they have fresh water available throughout the day.
Beagle Shih Tzu Mix Breed Behaviour
The Beagle and Shih Tzu mix is a friendly and affectionate breed that thrives on human companionship. They are social, playful, and eager to please. This mix enjoys cuddling and engaging in playtime. Their temperament is generally gentle and adaptable, making them an excellent choice for families and apartment living.
Alertness
With the Beagle’s sharp senses and the Shih Tzu’s curiosity, this mix is naturally alert. They quickly notice new sounds and movements, making them good early warning dogs without being overly reactive.
Protectiveness
The Beagle Shih Tzu mix is not highly protective, but they can show mild territorial behavior. While they may bark at strangers, they quickly warm up to people once they feel comfortable.
Prey drive
This breed has a low-to-moderate prey drive, inherited from the Beagle’s hunting background. However, due to the Shih Tzu’s companion dog nature, they are less likely to chase small animals.
Aggressiveness
This mix is not aggressive and is known for its friendly demeanor. They get along well with children and other pets. Proper socialization from an early age ensures a well-behaved companion.
Barking level
The Beagle Shih Tzu mix has a moderate barking tendency. They may bark when excited, seeking attention, or hearing unfamiliar sounds. Training can help control excessive barking.
Trainability
With Beagle intelligence and Shih Tzu stubbornness, this mix can be moderately trainable. Short, reward-based training sessions work best to keep them engaged and responsive.
Mental stimulation needs
This breed needs moderate mental stimulation. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and daily playtime help keep them engaged. Without it, they may become bored and develop unwanted behaviors.
Intelligence
The Beagle Shih Tzu mix is smart and quick to learn. They pick up commands easily but may have an independent streak, requiring consistent training and positive reinforcement.
Apart from the Beagle Shih Tzu mix, other popular Shih Tzu crosses include:
- Shih-Poo (Shih Tzu + Poodle) – Hypoallergenic and highly intelligent.
- Shorkie (Shih Tzu + Yorkie) – Small and feisty with a big personality.
- Shih Chi (Shih Tzu + Chihuahua) – Playful and affectionate.
- Mal-Shi (Shih Tzu + Maltese) – Gentle and loving.
- Shih Tzu Cocker Spaniel Mix – Loyal and people-friendly.
Each mix brings a unique personality, but the Beagle Shih Tzu mix is a well-balanced blend of playfulness, intelligence, and companionship.
The Shih Tzu Beagle mix has medium-length fur that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. Brushing 3-4 times a week keeps their coat clean and manageable. Bathing once a month using mild dog shampoo helps maintain their coat’s softness. Ear cleaning is crucial, as floppy-eared breeds are prone to infections. Nail trimming every few weeks ensures comfort and prevents cracking. Daily teeth brushing helps avoid dental issues, especially since Shih Tzu mixes are prone to tartar buildup. Overall, they require moderate grooming but regular maintenance keeps them looking and feeling their best.
Physical Attributes: Small and Adorable Hybrid
The Beagle Shih Tzu Mix, also known as the Shigle, is a small-sized designer breed with a compact and fluffy body. They inherit the Beagle’s expressive eyes and floppy ears along with the Shih Tzu’s luxurious coat and charming face. Their sturdy build and affectionate nature make them perfect family pets.
Breed Size
This mix stands between 9 to 15 inches tall and weighs 10 to 25 pounds. Their compact yet muscular structure makes them agile, playful, and well-suited for indoor living.
Colours
The Beagle Shih Tzu Mix comes in white, tan, brown, black, or tricolor combinations. Some have the Beagle’s signature markings, while others inherit the Shih Tzu’s silky, multicolored coat.
Coat
Their coat varies from short and smooth like a Beagle to long and fluffy like a Shih Tzu. Regular brushing and grooming help keep their fur tangle-free and shiny.
Drooling
The Beagle Shih Tzu Mix is a low-drooling breed, making them a great option for clean and tidy households. Occasional drooling may occur when excited or after eating.
Snoring
This mix may snore moderately, especially if they inherit the Shih Tzu’s short muzzle. Providing a comfortable sleeping position helps reduce snoring.
Exercise Needs
They require 45 to 60 minutes of daily exercise, including short walks, interactive games, and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and maintain a healthy weight.
Grooming Needs
Shih Tzu-like coats need regular grooming and trimming, while Beagle-like coats require weekly brushing. Routine ear cleaning, nail trimming, and occasional baths are essential.
Aggressiveness
The Beagle Shih Tzu Mix is not aggressive but may develop protective tendencies. Early socialization and training help them stay friendly, confident, and well-mannered.
This mix is generally healthy but can inherit hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, eye problems, and allergies. Their floppy ears make them prone to ear infections, requiring regular cleaning. Dental issues are common, so routine teeth cleaning is important. Some may develop respiratory issues, especially if they inherit the Shih Tzu’s short snout. Keeping them active, feeding a balanced diet, and providing vet checkups ensures a long, healthy life. They also have a tendency to gain weight, so portion control is necessary. With proper care and attention, the Beagle Shih Tzu Mix can live a happy 12 to 15 years.
The Beagle Shih Tzu Mix is classified as a small breed, weighing 10 to 25 pounds and standing 9 to 15 inches tall. They have a compact but strong frame, making them ideal lap dogs and active companions. Their small size and adaptable nature make them perfect for apartments and small homes, as long as they get regular exercise. They thrive on human companionship and enjoy being spoiled with attention. Their sturdy build and playful nature make them suitable for children and seniors alike. With proper training and love, they grow into devoted, well-behaved, and affectionate pets.
Beagle Shih Tzu Mix faq
Are Beagle Shih Tzu Mix dogs easy to train?
Yes, they are intelligent but slightly stubborn, so consistent training with positive reinforcement is necessary.
Do Beagle Shih Tzu Mix dogs shed a lot?
It depends on their coat type. Short-haired ones shed moderately, while long-haired ones need frequent grooming.
Are they good with children?
Yes, they are gentle, affectionate, and playful, making them great for families.
How much exercise do they need?
They need at least 45–60 minutes of activity daily to stay fit and happy.
Do they bark a lot?
Yes, they can be vocal, especially when excited or alert, but training can help manage barking.
Are Beagle Shih Tzu Mix dogs good with other pets?
Yes, they get along with other pets when socialized from an early age.
Are they hypoallergenic?
No, they are not hypoallergenic and may shed depending on coat type.
How long do they live?
With proper care, they can live 12 to 15 years.
The Beagle Shih Tzu Mix thrives in loving and active homes where they receive attention, training, and companionship. They enjoy daily walks, interactive play, and cuddle time. Their small size makes them perfect for apartments, but they still need regular outdoor activity. They form strong bonds with their owners and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They are well-suited for families, singles, and seniors who can provide them with love and care. With proper socialization, training, and a structured routine, they develop into loyal, affectionate, and well-mannered family pets.
The Beagle Shih Tzu Mix is a playful, intelligent, and affectionate hybrid that thrives in a loving and attentive home. They require daily exercise, socialization, and grooming to stay happy and healthy. While low-maintenance in size, they need companionship and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Their friendly and loyal personality makes them ideal for families and individuals alike. If you’re looking for a small-sized, affectionate, and intelligent dog, the Beagle Shih Tzu Mix could be the perfect addition to your home. With proper care and training, they will reward you with years of unconditional love and companionship.