Shih-Poo Health and Costs
Breed Group
Hybrid Dogs
Country of Origin
United States
Breed Size
Small
AKC Recognition
No
FCI Recognition
No
Rarity
Rare8 / 10
Purchase cost
Moderate8 / 10
Life expectancy
Long Lifespan8 / 10
Health
Very healthy8 / 10
Health problem risk
Mild health concerns3 / 10
Maintenance cost
Manageable upkeep cost3 / 10
Health & Costs FAQ
How much do Shih-Poo cost?
The cost of a Shih-Poo typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,200 when purchased from a reputable breeder. Adoption fees are much lower. Owners should also budget for initial supplies and ongoing veterinary care.
Purchase cost: 8 / 10
How long do Shih-Poo live?
Shih-Poos typically enjoy a long lifespan, generally ranging from 12 to 15 years. This longevity is often attributed to hybrid vigor inherited from their parent breeds, the Shih Tzu and Poodle.
Life expectancy: 8 / 10
Are Shih-Poo healthy dogs?
Shih-Poos are generally healthy, often benefiting from hybrid vigor. However, they can inherit issues from parent breeds, such as dental disease, patellar luxation, and eye problems.
Health: 8 / 10
What health problems do Shih-Poo have?
Shih-Poos are generally healthy but prone to hereditary conditions from their parent breeds, including patellar luxation, dental disease, and eye problems like cataracts. Hypoglycemia is a risk for puppies and Legg-Calve-Perthes as a potential hereditary condition.
Health problem risk: 3 / 10
Are Shih-Poo expensive to maintain?
Shih-Poos are generally affordable to maintain due to their small size and modest food requirements. However, they have high grooming needs, requiring professional visits every four to eight weeks.
Maintenance cost: 3 / 10
How much does it cost to own a Shih-Poo per month?
Expect to spend between $100 and $300 per month for a Shih-Poo. This covers high-quality food, regular professional grooming for their non-shedding coats, and pet insurance.
Monthly ownership cost: 4 / 10
How much does pet insurance cost for a Shih-Poo?
Pet insurance for a Shih-Poo typically costs between $20 and $50 per month, though costs can increase significantly as the dog ages. Comprehensive coverage is highly recommended.
Pet insurance cost: 3 / 10
Will homeowners insurance cover a Shih-Poo?
Yes, most homeowners insurance policies cover Shih-Poos because they are not typically on restricted breed lists. As a small, friendly crossbreed, they are generally considered low-risk.
Homeowners insurance difficulty: 10 / 10
Are Shih-Poo on insurance restricted breed lists?
No, Shih-Poos are not typically found on insurance restricted-breed lists. As a small designer crossbreed, they are viewed as low-risk companions by most providers.
Insurance restriction risk: 2 / 10
Can you get renters insurance with a Shih-Poo?
Yes, you can typically get renters insurance with a Shih-Poo. As a small, friendly designer breed, they are rarely included on restricted breed lists.
Renters insurance difficulty: 9 / 10
Vet Insights
Shih-Poos are healthy, rare hybrids with a long lifespan of 12 to 15 years. While generally robust, they may inherit dental and respiratory issues, and hypoglycemia in younger dogs. Monthly ownership costs range from $100 to $300, including high grooming needs. They are considered low-risk by insurers, making them easy to cover under standard homeowners and renters insurance policies without breed-specific restrictions. Read more about the Shih-Poo.
