Shih Tzu Jack Russell Terrier

The Shih Tzu Jack Russell Terrier is a Jack Russell with a toy-type twist. These dogs have a mix between the personalities of the two breeds. They tend to have longer coats than purebred Jack Russells. They can also be smaller than a typical Jack Russell. Read on to learn all about the characteristics and personality traits of this mix and how to care for them, and check out the handy training resources.

Shih Tzu Jack Russell Traits and Care

Jack Russell Shih Tzus shed more than regular, purebred Jack Russells. Shih tzu fur is silky and soft, whereas Jack Russell fur is firm due to its breeding as a hunting dog. Shih tzus, on the other hand, are bred to be companion dogs. They will follow you wherever you go. Shih Tzu Jack Russells will show some common JRT traits such as:

• high stamina
• excitability
• independence
• strong hunting instinct
• impressive physical strength
• affectionate
• sense of humor

• shorter muzzle
• average size of 10-11 inches
• arrogance or "small dog syndrome"
• very trusting of their owners
• "lapdog" qualities
• sometimes harder to houstrain

If you find that many of these traits show up in your dog and are leading to problem behaviors, my complete guide to Jack Russell training may be the answer you're looking for.

Shih Tzu Jack Russell Terriers are for people who want more of a "cutesie" pet than the traditional Jack Russell. They are a companion breed, bred to be lapdogs in the distant Chinese past. As stated above, the average size for a Shih Tzu is about 10-11 inches. The average Jack Russell is between 10-15 inches. Don't buy a Shih Tzu Jack Russell that is significantly shorter than 10 inches - this is a sign of bad breeding and the dog may be prone to health problems.

Like the Jack Russell Poodle, this dog is suitable for people who like Jack Russells but can't tolerate the natural boisterousness and full-on nature of a purebred. Just like a purebred, any Jack Russell Terrier mix breed needs plenty of exercise. Be prepared to handle the extra grooming.

For more information on how to raise and train your Jack Russell Shih Tzu, my new ebook is a comprehensive guide to training Jack Russells which contains a chapter on Jack Russell mix breeds. Take a look at The Jack Russell Lover's Ultimate Guide To Training. This ebook is shows the average owner simply how to train their dog in a positive way to achieve greater obedience and a stronger, lasting bond.

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