The Shih Tzu Wire Fox Terrier Mix (Fo-Tzu)

The Shih Tzu Wire Fox Terrier Mix: An Introduction

If you are searching for a sweet, cuddling, loyal companion for you and your family, the Shih Tzu Wire Fox Terrier Mix (affectionately known at the Fo-Tzu) may be the one for you!

This designer dog is a cross-over of a Shih Tzu with a Wire Fox Terrier. While this breed is relatively new and unknown to many, they are exemplary animals for dog owners of all ages. Its small size, lovable personality, and basic needs make this a low-maintenance addition to the family!

The Basics

History & Origin

While it is unknown exactly when the first Fo-Tzu was bred, there is speculation that the breed originated in the United States within the last 20 years. When dogs of different breeds initially cross-mixed, the offspring were referred to as “mutts.” However, the concept of mixing purebreds to create hybrid breeds became more appealing to many because the hybrid usually has few to no health issues of purebreds and they are hypoallergenic.

Average Life Expectancy & Size

Like most designer dogs, Fo-Tzus have a relatively long life expectancy. Fo-Tzus can live anywhere between 12 and 16 years, which is longer than many dog breeds. This is excellent news for dog-owners because they are able to enjoy the companionship of their pups for a long time.

Another unique feature of this breed is their relatively small stature. While their size varies based on their sex and the sizes of their parents, full grown Fo-Tzus typically weigh between 8 and 15 pounds and can grow to stand between 11 and 14 inches tall. This small size is ideal for people living in apartments and active seniors.

Appearance

Face: since this breed is the offspring of two adorable breeds, it makes sense that Fo-Tzus would be too! These pups typically have a round face with black, round eyes, and a black button noise. However, these features can vary, depending on genetics.

Coat: one of the breed’s most appealing features is that their coats are hypoallergenic.

In addition, Fo-Tzus can vary widely in terms of color and texture.

Fo-Tzus can range from white, cream, brown, black, fawn, and any combination in between. The coat texture is typically medium-length, dense, and wiry.

Stature: Fo-Tzus are typically short in stature. They are known for their short, stubby legs.

Growth & Development

Fo-Tzu puppies are born very small and are highly fragile. However, like puppies of other breeds, they grow rapidly and achieve many physical and social milestones by the time they reach adulthood, which are outlined below:

2 weeks old: At two weeks old, Fo-Tzu puppies begin opening their eyes and learning how to walk.

7-8 weeks old: by the time puppies reach the two- month mark, the puppies can be potty trained and start eating solid food. They also begin picking up on social cues, both with other dogs and humans.

10-12 weeks old: At 3 months old, puppies can begin experiencing more intentional and intensive exercise, such as walks. This is also when puppies can receive their first vaccinations.

5 months old: 5 months marks the beginning of adolescence for these puppies. This period is characterized by an increase in exploring their worlds and demonstrating behaviors such as hyperactivity and disobedience. Obedience training typically begins at this age but can be started earlier.

9 months old: at this age, puppies are introduced to adult food and can engage in more rigorous exercise.

14 months+: by the time puppies turn 14 months old, they are considered adults.

Health

General Health Concerns

As previously explained, one of the appeals of owning a designer dog is that they typically do not inherit the health problems that their purebred parents typically have.

For example, common health problems in Shih Tzus are allergies, progressive retinal atrophy, and liver problems. For Wire Fox Terriers, common health problems are dental issues and obesity, which can lead to joint problems and cardiovascular issues.

Despite the low risk of acquiring significant health problems, Fo-Tzus remain at risk of obesity. It is important to utilize a controlled feeding schedule and provide Fo-Tzus with food that is high in healthy nutrients (which will be discussed in more detail later on!) It is also important to limit how much “people” food Fo-Tzus ingest.

Dental Issues

Generally, smaller dogs tend to experience dental problems more than any other size group and Fo-Tzus are no exception. It is important to have their teeth professionally cleaned regularly and purchase specific toys and treats that strengthen their teeth and gums.

Nutrition & Diet

Maintaining a well-balanced diet is essential in keeping Fo-Tzus healthy. While there are numerous dog food options available, the most preferable are ones that contain the most nutritious ingredients.

An ideal kind of food for Fo-Tzus is a premium quality dry kibble created for smaller dogs that advertise medium energy. It is recommended to select a formula that has an ideal balance of protein, healthy fat, and carbohydrates. Brands such as Blue Buffalo and Taste of the Wild are excellent choices because they create food that contains an excellent balance of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids that meet all of your Fo-Tzu’s nutritional needs.

Also, it is encouraged to speak with your dog’s veterinarian for more specific insight and food recommendations, based on your dog’s specific health and nutrition needs.

TIP: It is not recommended to use what is called a “free-feeding” approach with Fo-Tzus. Since they are prone to obesity, they will likely over -eat and gain weight quickly. Therefore, a healthier feeding method is to feed Fo-Tzus based on a daily time schedule and to only give them the recommended amount of food at a time. The general rule of thumb is no more than 1 cup of food (more on that later).

It is also important to note that dietary needs change as Fo-Tzus get older.

Puppies initially feed on their mother’s milk until they are about 2 months old. At this age, they can be introduced to solid “puppy” food, which is a specific formula designed for growing puppies. The typical recommended food amount and frequency for puppy food is about 0.1 cups of food 3 times a day.

At 3 months old, the amount of dry food can be increased to 0.2 cups 3 times per day.

For puppies who are 6 months old, the food amount can be increased again to 0.3 cups 3 times per day.

When puppies turn 9 months old, adult food can begin to be incorporated into their diet. The recommended way to do this is to initially add a very small amount of adult food to the puppy food and continue adding more adult food and less puppy food each day until the puppies are eating adult food only. The advised portion size at this age is 0.6 cups 2 times per day.

Finally, the recommended amount and frequency of food intake for adult Fo-Tzus is about 0.75 cups of food 2 times per day.

TIP: while it is important to be mindful of how much food Fo-Tzus eat, they do not need to be deprived of treats! Treats can be provided during training and spontaneously in between meals. However, it is recommended to monitor how many treats are given per day and that the treats are nutritious.

Spaying/Neutering

Exercise

Like all dogs, Fo-Tzus require some regular physical activity in order to stay healthy and extend their lifespan. Consistent, rigorous exercise can begin as young as 10 weeks and is important to maintain throughout the lifespan.

The reason why exercise is so important is because Fo Tzus are characterized by having lots of energy. While they do not require as much physical activity as larger dogs, they require small doses of exercise throughout the day, such as walks and outdoor games.

A standard length of time for exercise for Fo Tzus that are full grown is about 45 minutes total per day. This can include a variety of different activities such as walks, playing fetch, and outdoor play. In general, it is recommended that your Fo-Tzu complete approximately 7 miles of walking per week.

TIP: to enhance social development with other dogs, bringing Fo-Tzus to dog parks can be beneficial because they are getting exercise and practicing socially appropriate behaviors with other dogs.

Obedience & Potty Training

Obedience and potty training are crucial for dogs of all breeds and must begin when puppies are about 5 months old or younger.

The most common skills learned in obedience training include: socializing appropriately with other dogs and people, potty training, walking on a leash, how to greet humans appropriately, basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” and “come.”

It can be helpful to enroll your Fo-Tzu in a structured obedience school curriculum in addition to reinforcing skills learned in the home. These schools are facilitated by trained instructors that work with both the pupils and owners to learn and strengthen obedience skills.

Fo-Tzus can be excellent students when it comes to obedience and potty training. However, every dog is different and some may struggle with learning more than others. Because of their loyal nature and dedication to their humans, Fo- Tzus strive to please their owners. They are also smart dogs, as both of their parent breeds are highly intelligent. However, terriers are known for being stubborn. If your Fo -Tzu displays stubbornness, they can still be trained successfully with patience, consistency, and the appropriate rewards.

TIP: Fo -Tzus thrive on verbal praise and treats as rewards. Positive reinforcement has shown to be one of the most successful training approaches for dogs, including Fo- Tzus. Incorporating these into training as frequently and consistently as possible is highly recommended.

Grooming Daisy Dogs: Overview, How To, & Recommendations

Grooming & Hair Maintenance Requirements

Fo -Tzus have relatively low maintenance grooming needs. Like all dogs, Fo -Tzus benefit from baths, combing and brushing, and attention to teeth and nails.

As previously explained, their coats can vary in color and texture, but most are somewhat wiry and dense. While their coats are hypoallergenic and have minimal shedding, this consistency can lead to frequent tangles and become matted easily.

To help prevent matting and to keep your Fo- Tzu’s coat shiny and free from tangles, the standard grooming requirements and frequency of each are:

Brushing: 2-3 times per week (TIP: if your dog’s hair is slightly longer more frequent brushing may be needed to get rid of tangles and mats).

Bathing: approximately every 3 or 4 months

Haircuts: approximately 3 times per year, depending on how long you prefer your dog’s hair to be.

Stripping of the Coat: 2-3 times per year.

Teeth Brushing: 2 times per week.

Recommended Grooming Tools

To meet their pet’s grooming needs, some dog owners prefer to hire a dog groomer while others prefer to groom their pets themselves. Either method is perfectly appropriate, as long as your pet’s hair, skin, and nail needs are met.

Regardless of whether you groom your dog yourself or not, there are some basic grooming tools that are available for purchase to have on hand in case. These include:

• Brush
• Nail clippers
• Hair scissors
• Shampoo and Conditioner
• Deshedder
• Slicker brush
• Dematter

Since Fo- Tzus require basic grooming and have no significant hair and/or skin conditions, most generic grooming products are sufficient. However, since their coats can become more matted than other breeds, it is recommended to invest in additional supplies, such as a deshedder (which helps get rid of excess hair), a slicker brush, and a dematter.

If you decide to wash and groom your pup at home, tools such as a grooming tub and harness are suggested. However, these tools are not required, as dogs can be wash perfectly well in a standard bathtub as well!

Temperament & Personality

Personality Traits

Even though Fo- Tzus are not commonly known, they are extraordinary companions for any dog-owner. This breed appeals to dog-owners thanks to their sweet and loving personality and loyal nature.

Above anything else, Fo -Tzus love to be close to their humans. Generally, wherever you go, chances are your Fo- Tzu will be right next to you.

In addition, Fo- Tzus can be rather stubborn. However, this can be managed easily by remaining patient and consistent.

Other notable personality traits are that they are typically loyal, fun, affectionate, and friendly.

Child/Family Friendly

If trained and socialized correctly, Fo- Tzus can make excellent family dogs. Even though their parents may not always be good with children, this trait varies depending on the dog. In addition, since they are hypoallergenic, they are an excellent choice for families of someone who is allergic to dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Fo- Tzus good with other pets?

When socialized appropriately, Fo- Tzus can interact completely fine are with other dogs and pets.

If you are concerned about how your dog will get along with other animals, both in your home and in the neighborhood, exposing your Fo- Tzu to a dog park may be beneficial in practicing appropriate social skills.

2. Can Fo- Tzus be support animals?

Due to their loving and loyal nature, Fo- Tzus can make wonderful emotional support animals. However, in order for a Fo- Tzu to become an officially registered emotional support animal (ESA), it is recommended to follow the steps outlined on the US Service Animal Registry website to obtain an official photo ID and certificate. This allows your dog to go with your anywhere, as long as you have proof of registration with you.

TIP: due to their potentially stubborn nature, Fo -Tzus are probably not ideal candidates for other service dog certifications.

3. Are Daisy Dogs good guard dogs?

Even though Fo- Tzus can have natural hunting tendencies, they may not make the best guard dogs due to their size. However, they do tend to bark, which can be beneficial in alerting their humans if danger is nearby.

Adopting Daisy Dogs: How & Where to Locate Them

If you are interested in bringing a Fo-Tzu into your family, you are probably wondering how and where they can be found. Since they are not a well-known breed, you may need to complete more extensive research to find the dog that is right for you, based on where you live.

TIP: it can be challenging to locate a breeder who breeds Fo- Tzus from purebred Shih Tzus and Wire Fox Terriers, as this cross breed is not as common as other hybrids.

However, there are two primary ways of finding the furry friend that is right for you and your family: adopting from a rescue or locating a breeder.

Adopting a Dog from a Rescue or a Shelter

If you decide to adopt from a shelter, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you can explore rescues by breed. You can also seek out specific non-profit organizations, such as the MSPCA in the US.

Below are some additional rescue groups across different countries:

• USA: there are approximately 14,000 animal shelters and rescues across the country. These include local city and town shelters and The Humane Society of American Organization
• UK: Last Chance Animal Rescue and Greenleaf Animal Rescue
• Australia: RSPCA and Pet Rescue
• Canada: Dog Tales Rescue and Sanctuary and SPCA
• Asia: Soi Dog Foundation

TIP: It is recommended to seek out more information from each individual rescue regarding the specific requirements of adopting and what their procedures entail.

EXTRA TIP: one of the most important things to keep in mind when adopting from a shelter is that the dogs currently at these shelters are what is currently available for adoption. There may not be Fo- Tzus at rescues or shelters at the time of your visit. You may end up choosing a different breed that is currently available at the shelter, which is excellent! However, if you wish to adopt a Fo-Tzu specifically, it is important to keep this in mind and plan accordingly.

Adopting from a Breeder