PIN-TZU

Apartment Living

Good for 1st Time Owners

Tolerance Levels

Affection for Family

Kid Friendliness

Stranger Friendliness

Ease of Grooming

General Health

Trainability

Prey Drive

Exercise Needs

Energy Level

History

The Pin-Tzu is a crossbreed between the Miniature pinscher and the Shih Tzu. The Pin-Tzu puppies in most cases inherit the look of the Shih Tzu, then the Miniature Pinscher. Most Pin-Tzu dogs have brown eyes with a brown nose. The coat color can either be brown or white and black mix. Some Pin-Tzus may have floppy ears while others may have a pair of erect ears.

Temperament & Personality

It is a very friendly and energetic dog that loves the company of its owner. But at times, shih tzu mix puppies might be independent or stay aloof. The owner should keep the fact in mind that the dog may have a leadership strike too. The Pin-Tzu gets well with the older kids and other pets in the house. This breed does not suffer from the separation anxiety when the owner leaves the house.

Exercise

Minimal activity will be fine for this breed. A daily walk in a dog park or a session of fetching will keep it in a healthy physical state. These dogs do well in different agility tests. The Pin-Tzu may also love an interactive session with dogs at a dog park. These dogs are great swimmers and love hiking sports.

Grooming

The texture and depth of the coat will decide the grooming needs of the dog. Some may have a dense and long coat where the owner should brush the coat on a daily basis. Bathing once in a month will keep the dog odor and dirt free. The owner should use a mild dog shampoo recommended by a Veterinarian.

Health Problems

A short muzzle may result in a disease called the Brachycephalic syndrome. Significant concerns such as Exposure keratopathy syndrome, Intervertebral disc disease can affect the breed. Minor matters are Entropion, Ectropion, Color dilution alopecia. Occasional tests such as cardiac examination, eye examinations, skin evaluation, Internal imaging (X-ray, CT scan, MRI’S) is advised.

Training

It is in the record that some Pin-Tzus may develop a keen interest in some unusual stuff like playing the piano. Pin-Tzu dogs are known to get well socialized if socialization skill is taught in their early puppyhood.