You’re probably looking at your screen right now wondering how on earth a pitbull and shih tzu mix even happens. It sounds like a punchline to a joke about designer dogs, doesn't it? But they exist. Usually called a "Pit-Tzu," this crossbreed is one of the weirdest results of the modern obsession with mixing everything with everything else.
Honestly, it’s a bizarre pairing. On one side, you’ve got a dog bred historically for its "gameness" and muscular power. On the other, a tiny "lion dog" meant to sit on the laps of Chinese royalty.
When you mash them together, you don't get a predictable middle ground. Genetics aren't like mixing paint where red and white always make pink. It’s more like a chaotic lottery. You might get a 40-pound dog with a flat face and a high prey drive, or a 15-pound dog that thinks it’s a gladiator.
The Reality of the Pit-Tzu Appearance
Most people expect a miniature pitbull. They want that tough look in a portable package. Sometimes that happens. Other times? Not so much.
I’ve seen a pitbull and shih tzu mix that looked exactly like a scruffy terrier with a massive, blocky head. It was jarring. The Shih Tzu side often contributes a longer, wiry coat that doesn't shed much, while the Pitbull side gives them that thick neck and wide chest.
If the Shih Tzu’s brachycephalic (flat-faced) genes win out, the dog might struggle with breathing, especially if it inherits the high-energy lungs of a Pitbull. That’s a recipe for expensive vet bills. Their weight usually lands somewhere between 15 and 35 pounds. It depends entirely on whether the Pitbull parent was a smaller American Staffordshire Terrier or a larger American Pit Bull Terrier.
Coat Texture and Maintenance
Don't assume they’re hypoallergenic. That’s a marketing lie people tell to sell expensive puppies. While Shih Tzus have hair rather than fur, Pitbulls have short, single coats. A pitbull and shih tzu mix could have anything from a slick, short coat to a shaggy mess that mats if you even look at it wrong.
You’ll likely deal with "beard" staining if they have the Shih Tzu face. They’re messy eaters.
Temperament: A Genetic Coin Toss
Temperament is where things get truly complicated.
Pitbulls are known for being people-oriented, often to a fault. They’re "velcro dogs." Shih Tzus are also affectionate, but they have a stubborn, aristocratic streak. They don't always see the point in following your orders.
A pitbull and shih tzu mix is usually incredibly loyal. They want to be in your lap. All the time. Even if they weigh 30 pounds and you're trying to eat dinner. But here’s the thing—both breeds can be prone to separation anxiety. If you work 10-hour days and leave this dog alone, your couch is probably going to be sacrificed to the gods of boredom and stress.
Socialization is Not Optional
Let’s be real about the "bully breed" stigma. Pitbulls can have a high prey drive. Shih Tzus are small and often don't realize they aren't the biggest thing in the room. When you mix them, you need to be hyper-vigilant about socialization.
If this dog inherits the Pitbull's strength and the Shih Tzu's "big dog" attitude, they can get themselves into trouble at the dog park. They aren't naturally aggressive toward humans—quite the opposite—but they can be "dog selective." This means they might love your neighbor's Golden Retriever but absolutely hate that specific Beagle down the street.
Health Issues Nobody Mentions
Everyone talks about "hybrid vigor," the idea that mixed breeds are magically healthier than purebreds. It's a half-truth. While you reduce the risk of breed-specific recessive disorders, you can also end up with a dog that inherits the worst of both worlds.
- Hip Dysplasia: Common in Pitbulls. If the dog grows too fast or gets too heavy for its frame, its joints will pay the price.
- Brachycephalic Syndrome: If the muzzle is too short (from the Shih Tzu), they’ll snort, wheeze, and overheat easily.
- Skin Allergies: Both breeds are notorious for this. You might spend a fortune on grain-free kibble and medicated shampoos because the dog won't stop itching its paws.
- Patellar Luxation: That’s a fancy way of saying "kneecaps that pop out," a classic small-dog problem from the Shih Tzu side.
You have to find a breeder who actually tests the parents. But honestly? Most people breeding a pitbull and shih tzu mix aren't high-end AKC-certified professionals. They’re usually accidental litters or "backyard breeders" trying to make a quick buck on a "rare" hybrid.
Training a Stubborn Athlete
Training this mix is... an experience.
Pitbulls are generally eager to please, but they get distracted by squirrels or a breeze. Shih Tzus are smart but frequently ask, "What's in it for me?" before they sit.
If you try to use "alpha dog" or "dominance" training methods on a pitbull and shih tzu mix, you will fail. They’ll either shut down or just ignore you. Positive reinforcement is the only way. Use high-value treats—think freeze-dried liver or actual bits of chicken.
The Shih Tzu side makes them notoriously difficult to housebreak. Small bladders and a stubborn streak mean you might still be finding "presents" on your rug at six months old.
Is This the Right Dog for You?
Probably not if you want a predictable pet.
This mix is for the person who loves the underdog. It’s for someone who wants a medium-sized companion that is sturdy enough for a hike but happy to binge-watch Netflix for six hours.
You need to be okay with the "What kind of dog is that?" question every single time you go to the hardware store. You also need to be prepared for breed restrictions. Even if your dog looks 90% Shih Tzu, if the paperwork says "Pitbull mix," many apartments and insurance companies will blacklist you. It’s unfair, but it’s the reality of owning anything with the P-word in its lineage.
Where to Find One
Please don't go to a pet store. Most of those dogs come from mills.
Check local shelters or rescues specifically for "Bully breeds" or "Small breed mixes." Because the pitbull and shih tzu mix is so unconventional, they often end up in shelters when people realize they can't handle the energy or the grooming needs.
Actionable Next Steps for Potential Owners
If you're serious about bringing one of these dogs home, don't just wing it.
First, check your local housing laws. Ensure there are no breed-specific movements in your city that would make owning a Pitbull hybrid a legal headache.
Second, budget for professional grooming. Unless you want to learn how to use clippers without nicking a dog’s ear, you’ll be seeing a groomer every 6 to 8 weeks.
Third, invest in a high-quality harness. Do not use a neck collar for walks if your mix has the flatter Shih Tzu face; it puts too much pressure on their trachea and can cause long-term respiratory damage.
Finally, get a DNA test. If you adopt a "mystery mix" that looks like a Pit-Tzu, brands like Embark or Wisdom Panel can tell you exactly what you’re dealing with. Knowing the percentage of each breed helps you anticipate health risks and prey drive levels before they become a problem. This isn't just about curiosity; it's about being a responsible owner for a very unique animal.