The Bo Shih is a small, sturdy dog with a charmingly expressive face, often exhibiting a blend of features from its parent breeds.

Small, typically weighing between 10-20 pounds and standing 8-15 inches tall.

Can vary; may be short and smooth like a Boston Terrier, or longer and flowing like a Shih Tzu. Some have a mix of both.

Commonly seen in black, white, brown, brindle, or a combination of these colors.

Often has a slightly brachycephalic (short-nosed) face, though typically less pronounced than a purebred Shih Tzu.

Large, round, and expressive.

May be naturally short or docked (where permitted), or long and feathered like a Shih Tzu.

Bo Shihs are known for their friendly, affectionate, and playful personalities, making them wonderful companions.

They thrive on human interaction and love to cuddle.

They enjoy games and have a moderate energy level.

Generally good with children and other pets, especially when socialized early.

They are relatively smart, inheriting traits from both parent breeds.

They form strong bonds with their families.

Can be good watchdogs, barking to alert their owners to anything unusual, though not excessively yappy.

Bo Shihs are suitable for a wide range of owners, including families, singles, and seniors, who can provide them with love, attention, and moderate exercise.

Intelligent and relatively easy to train.

Not ideal for those looking for a highly active or sporting dog.

The ideal owner for a Bo Shih is someone who is looking for a devoted, loving companion and is prepared to provide consistent training, moderate exercise, and proper care for potential health issues. They thrive in environments where they receive plenty of attention and affection.

Bo Shih care involves regular grooming, a balanced diet, and providing a comfortable living environment.

Depends on coat type. If short-haired, weekly brushing is sufficient. If longer-haired, more frequent brushing (2-3 times a week) is needed to prevent mats. Occasional baths are also necessary.

High-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Monitor their weight, as they can be prone to obesity.

Adaptable to various living situations, including apartments and houses with yards. They prefer to be indoors with their families.

Regular teeth brushing (at least 2-3 times a week) is important to prevent dental disease.

Trim nails regularly, usually every few weeks, or as needed.

Bo Shihs are moderately easy to train and require regular, but not excessive, exercise.

Bo Shihs respond well to positive reinforcement methods like treats and praise. They can be a bit stubborn at times, so consistency and patience are key. Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended to ensure a well-adjusted adult dog. Short, engaging training sessions are most effective.

Bo Shihs need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy, but their needs are moderate. A couple of short walks each day, combined with some playtime in the yard or indoors, is usually sufficient. They are not high-energy dogs, making them suitable for apartment living.

Use treats, praise, and toys to motivate them during training.

Maintain a regular training schedule to reinforce good behavior.

Expose them to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Provide puzzle toys and interactive games to keep their minds engaged.

They are sensitive dogs and do not respond well to harsh training techniques.

Bo Shihs are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions.

Due to their shortened noses, some Bo Shihs may experience breathing difficulties, especially in hot or humid weather.

A condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal position.

Both parent breeds are prone to certain eye conditions, such as cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and dry eye.

A condition affecting the spinal discs, causing pain and potential mobility issues.

A malformation of the hip joint, leading to arthritis and pain.

The Bo Shih is a relatively new hybrid breed, emerging from the growing trend of designer dogs that began in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The intent behind crossing the Boston Terrier and the Shih Tzu was likely to combine the desirable traits of both breeds: the Boston Terrier's intelligence and sociability, and the Shih Tzu's affectionate nature and hypoallergenic coat (though a hybrid's coat can vary). While neither parent breed has ancient origins (the Boston Terrier originating in the late 1800s and the Shih Tzu developing in Tibet and later refined in China), the Bo Shih itself does not have a long, documented history. It's not recognized by major kennel clubs like the AKC, as it is a mixed breed, but is recognized by some designer dog registries.

While Shih Tzus are considered hypoallergenic, Boston Terriers are not. Therefore, a Bo Shih's hypoallergenic status can vary. It's best to spend time with a Bo Shih before committing if you have allergies.

The average lifespan of a Bo Shih is 12-15 years.

Yes, Bo Shihs are generally good with children, especially when raised with them and properly socialized. They are playful and affectionate, making them good family pets.

Bo Shihs are not excessive barkers, but they will bark to alert their owners to something unusual. They are not typically considered 'yappy' dogs.

The cost of a Bo Shih puppy can vary depending on the breeder, location, and lineage. Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1500, or possibly more.

Shedding depends on the coat type inherited from the parent breeds. A Bo Shih with a more Boston Terrier-like coat will shed moderately, while one with a Shih Tzu-like coat may shed less.

Bo Shihs thrive on companionship and do not do well when left alone for extended periods. They can develop separation anxiety. It's best if they have someone home with them for most of the day, or if arrangements can be made for companionship.

Bo Shihs can be moderately easy to housetrain with consistency and positive reinforcement. Crate training is often recommended.

Feed your Bo Shih a high-quality dog food formulated for small breeds. The specific food and amount will depend on their age, activity level, and individual needs.

You can find Bo Shihs through reputable breeders specializing in designer dogs. You may also find them through breed-specific rescues or shelters that occasionally have mixed breeds available.