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Shih-Mo |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
Tibet <> U.S.A. -> U.S.A. | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen |
A brief presentation of the Shih-Mo |
| The Shih-Mo is a cross between an American Eskimo Dog and a Shih Tzu. This hybrid has been a popular mix for the past 20 years. Its exact origins are unknown. This little dog has the combined characteristics of both parents to create a delightful companion. The Shih-Mo is relatively small, measuring just 30.5 to 46 centimeters and weighing 7 to 11.5 kilos. Females tend to be slightly smaller than males. The Shih-Mo has a long, silky coat and comes in shades of cream and tan. They are affectionate and lovable. The Shih-Mo is generally considered an excellent companion for small children or the elderly. It loves to be a lapdog and receive lots of attention. |
History of the Shih-Mo |
| The Shih-Mo is a delightful combination of its two parents: the Shih Tzu and the American Eskimo dog. In many cases, the breed is a 50/50 mix, but with each successive generation, the ratio changes a little. Despite the percentage, the Shih-Mo remains a combination of Shih Tzu and American Eskimo Dog and therefore shares many of the unique characteristics of both its parents. |
A little of the Shih Tzu |
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| The Shih Tzu is an ancient and noble breed. Its history dates back to China and Tibet, where it was a favored companion dog during the Tang dynasty. Once reserved for the nobility, the Shih Tzu became a people's dog under the Ming dynasty. In 1928, a breeding pair was shipped to the UK. The breed then made its way to the United States, where it was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969. | ||
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| Standard of the Shih Tzu |
A little of the American Eskimo Dog |
| The American Eskimo Dog comes from the Nordic family of dogs known as Spitz. Its exact origins are unknown, but this dog was a common pet in the 19th century in many German communities in America. It became a popular breed used by circus performers to perform tricks. The American Eskimo Dog joined the American Kennel Club in 1994. This small dog is exceptionally intelligent and always ready to please its master. |
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| Presentation of the American Eskimo Dog |
Appearance of the Shih-Mo |
| The Shih-Mo is considered a small to medium-sized dog. It generally has long legs and a compact body. Its tail curls over its back. Its ears resemble those of the Shih Tzu. Many people believe that the Shih-Mo's face is more like that of the Shih Tzu than that of the American Eskimo Dog. The Shih-Mo has an alert appearance with bright, lively eyes. Its hindquarters are well muscled and slightly wider than its chest, giving it a cute, unusual shape. |
Temperament of the Shih-Mo |
| Unlike many other small dogs, the Shih-Mo adores children and is an excellent companion for youngsters. It's also ideal for an elderly person, as it requires very little care and enjoys spending its hours as a spoiled lapdog. The Shih-Mo is ideal for people with other pets, as it gets on well with dogs and cats. He tends to be a very happy dog who is always ready to please his master. When strangers approach, he is protective and may bark. The Shih-Mo is not an excessive barker like some small dogs. He makes a wonderful apartment dog, provided he is given enough time outdoors for a change of air. |
Needs and activities of the Shih-Mo |
| The Shih-Mo is an excellent combination of its two parent breeds. The Shih Tzu tends to be a laid-back lapdog, while the American Eskimo Dog loves to play and is full of energy. The Shih-Mo likes to be cuddled on a warm lap, but is always up for a fun walk and a bit of play. His desire to play is one of the reasons why the Shih-Mo is an excellent companion for children. He'll benefit from a daily one-hour walk, but if his owner doesn't feel like going for a walk, he'll be happy to play indoors. Its versatility is one of the reasons why it's an ideal apartment dog. The Shih-Mo is very close to its owner and makes an exceptionally affectionate companion. |
Maintenance of the Shih-Mo |
| This small dog has a long, silky, straight coat that comes in shades of cream, white, brown and black. It sheds moderately and needs daily brushing to avoid tangles. These gentle little dogs benefit from professional grooming once a month. Many owners opt for short clipping of their long coats to prolong grooming visits. He has no significant odor and generally requires a bath only once a month. His ears should be cleaned weekly. This dog's nails often need trimming once a month. Many owners choose to brush their dog's teeth several times a week to prevent future periodontal disease. |
English (United Kingdom) 
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