Dogs have an exceptional ability to make our lives better.
They are loving, loyal, and playful creatures that bring joy and companionship.
Each breed has unique characteristics that give them distinctions, while some have a mix of traits that create a perfect dog.
One such mix is the Shih Tzu Golden Retriever, commonly called the Shretriever.
A Shretriever is a crossbreed of a Shih Tzu and a Golden Retriever.
BASIC TRAITS
Height
15-19 inches
Weight
30-50 lb
Lifespan
10-16 years
Group (of Breed)
Crossbreed
Best Suited For
active families with kids and other pets, experienced dog owners
Temperament
intelligent, affectionate, loyal, playful
Origin
The Shih Tzu Golden Retriever mix is a relatively new breed that originated in the United States.
Breeders created this designer dog by crossing the Golden Retriever with the Shih Tzu in the 1990s.
Although it is a new breed, Shretrievers have gained popularity due to their cute looks and affectionate nature.
Coat
Shretrievers have a coat that can vary in color and texture.
Most commonly, their coat color combines white, black, brown, and gold.
Due to the Golden Retriever’s influence, their coat is usually thick, long, and silky.
The Shih Tzu side of the breed also makes the coat hypoallergenic, which means it doesn’t shed much hair.
Grooming your Shretriever is necessary to keep them looking and feeling their best.
Given their long and thick hair, regular brushing is essential to avoid matting and tangling.
Experts recommend that Shretrievers be brushed at least twice a week, which will help distribute oils throughout the coat, prevent mats, and reduce shedding.
Temperament/Behavior
The Shretriever is an intelligent and affectionate breed.
They are great family pets and are especially good with children.
They have friendly personalities and love to be around people.
Shretrievers are also easy to train and are highly adaptable to new environments.
Their loyalty makes them suitable as watchdogs, and they are known to defend their families against perceived threats.
However, Shih Tzu Golden Retriever mixes are known for their stubbornness sometimes, which can make training a little challenging.
They require patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement training to unlock their full potential while young.
Early socialization through obedience and good manner training is crucial to prevent unwanted behaviors such as nipping, barking, or digging.
Exercise Requirements
Although the Shretriever is a small breed, they still require a moderate amount of exercise to stay fit and healthy.
Shretrievers love to play and need daily interactive activities to keep them mentally stimulated.
Engaging them in games like fetch or walks in the park can help them burn off energy and maintain good physical health.
However, exercise needs will vary depending on the dog’s disposition and age.
Always consult your veterinarian about the optimal exercise routine for your Shretriever.
But on average, they need around 30 to 45 minutes of daily exercise.
Food/Diet
The Shretriever’s diet must be nutritious, balanced, and rich in high-quality protein.
Their food should contain vegetables, fruits, and whole grains for energy production, muscle repair, and growth.
Avoid feeding them too many treats as they can easily gain weight and become obese.
Also, provide fresh water at all times to keep them hydrated.
While feeding your Shretriever, choose high-quality dog food brands that suit their age and breed.
A combination of wet and dry food is recommendable for Shretrievers, but always check with your vet first.
Common Health Problems
The Shih Tzu Golden Retriever mix inherits health problems from its parent breeds.
However, the good news is that they are generally healthy dogs.
However, some common health problems can affect them, such as:
- Hip dysplasia: This is a genetic condition where the hip joints don’t develop correctly, leading to movement problems and chronic pain.
- Allergies: Shretrievers, like any other breed, can develop different forms of allergies, including food sensitivities, environmental allergies, and flea allergies.
- Eye problems: Hereditary conditions can affect your dog’s vision, including cataracts, glaucoma, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA).
Conclusion
Shretrievers are delightful and loving mixed dogs with endearing personalities.
Their loyalty and affection make them ideal companion dogs, while their size and playfulness make them suitable for families with kids.
Anyone looking for a companion dog with a cute look and a friendly nature will find a perfect fit in the Shih Tzu Golden Retriever mix.
However, before bringing a Shretriever home, research and find a responsible breeder to provide you with a healthy and happy dog.