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Zuchon

The Zuchon is one of the smaller designer crossbreeds, but despite their diminutive stature they are full of energy and personality. While more common in the US, it is slowly growing in popularity around the world due to their affectionate nature that makes them a great companion for both young and old. The breeds that make up the Zuchon are the Shih Tzu and the Bichon Frise.

The Zuchon can be a first cross (with one Shih Tzu and one Bichon parent), they can be bred back to one of the original breeds or be two Zuchons bred together. This means that there are varieties in size, shape, colours and coat types, but in all cases this is a small companion dog.

The need-to-know

  • Dog suitable for non-experienced owners
  • Basic training required
  • Enjoys gentle walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Little toy dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming daily
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Chatty and vocal dog
  • Not a guard dog
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • May require training to live with kids
Height:
The usual height of a Zuchon is between 24-29cms. Shih Tzu - not exceeding 27cms. Bichon Frise - 23-28cms.
Colours:
The colours of a Zuchon can be any mixtures of their parents’ colours with white markings. Shih Tzu: All colours permissible apart from merle. White blaze on forehead and white tip highly desirable in particolours. Bichon Frise: White
UK Kennel Club Groups:
Toy and Utility
Personality

Like most crossbreeds, the personality of a Zuchon depends on the parents and how they have been bred and reared.

The Shih Tzu is an extraverted, confident, affectionate dog who can be quite independent and aloof with strangers. They are, but will often think of training as a chore they would rather not participate in.

The Bichon Frise is an extroverted, lively, playful, friendly little dog. They bond very closely to their owners and will want to accompany them everywhere.

History and Origins

Like many of the designer crossbreeds, the Zuchon originated in the United States in a quest to find a small companion dog that didn’t shed and that would fit into any family’s lifestyle no matter how small their home and garden.To understand more about the origin of the breed requires an understanding of the two breeds that go into the formation of the Zuchon

Nutrition and Feeding

The fast metabolism of toy dogs is present in the Zuchon as well. This means they must eat little and often. Small-breed foods are specifically designed with appropriate levels of key nutrients and smaller kibble sizes to suit smaller mouths. This also encourages chewing and improves digestion. It’s important to make sure their diet includes the right balance of all the main nutrient groups. Make sure you conduct regular body condition scores to check that your dog is in shape, and remember to feed them at least twice daily in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Exercise

The Zuchon will be happy with half an hour to an hour walking each day, plus plenty of games and owner interaction.

Other Information

Health and common issues

Crossbreeds are used to dilute or eliminate any inherited health issues that may exist within one or other of the breeds. This dilution or elimination is likely if only one parent is the carrier of any particular condition, and where this is a first cross (F1). As this can’t always be guaranteed, all parents should be health tested prior to breeding: Shih Tzu - they can be prone to luxating patellas, and are prone to dental problems and eye conditions. They also are a brachycephalic breed and so can have the health problems and breathing difficulties associated with a shortened skull and flattened face. Bichon Frise - a generally healthy dog but eye testing should be carried out. Information on health tests for both breeds can be found on the Kennel Club’s website or find out more about brachycephalic breeds here.

Space requirements

This is a small dog who can happily live in a flat or a smaller property. As long as they have access to the outdoors for toileting and walks, they’ll be ready to call it home.

Training the zuchon

The Zuchon is a clever dog who will enjoy learning tricks and should be trained to walk on a lead and harness, as well as come back when called. If the Bichon trainability is inherited, this cross can be surprisingly trainable.

Family friendly dog breeds

The Zuchon makes a fun companion but as they are small and rather delicate, especially as puppies. They suit families with older sensible children. They can happily live with cats and other small dogs.