Jack Russell Shih Tzu Mix [Jack Tzu] – Not For All

Jack Tzu is a small cross breed which is the result of the Jack Russell Shih Tzu mix. In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of the Jack Russell and Shih Tzu mix, also known as the JackTzu or Jack Tzu. From their appearance to their temperament, we’ll provide you with all the essential information you need to know about this adorable and unique dog breed.

Read about Rat Terrier Shih Tzu Mix here

So sit back, relax, and let’s embark on this delightful journey together!

Fast facts about Jack Russell Terrier and Shih Tzu Mix

Origin of Jack Russell Shih Tzu Mix / Jack Tzu / RussellTzu

Jack Tzu, known as RussellTzu, is a designer dog that is a result of a mix between Jack Russel Terrier and Shih Tzu. Jack Tzu’s origin remains a mystery yet; though, it is considered to have happened in the 1990s of somewhere nearby Texas, United States. 

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This mixed breed has both qualities of their parents. They have got energy, enthusiasm, loyalty from Jack Russell Terrier and companionship, love, attention from Shih Tzu.

The appearance of Jack Tzu

The JackTzu is a small to medium-sized dog with a well-defined body structure. It typically measures between 10 to 15 inches in height and weighs around 10 to 20 pounds, making it a compact and portable companion. Despite its small size, the JackTzu has a sturdy frame and a strong, muscular build.

In terms of its coat, the JackTzu inherits a combination of traits from its Jack Russell and Shih Tzu parents. It often has a medium to long length, dense, and slightly wavy or curly coat. This unique coat texture requires regular grooming to prevent matting and keep it looking neat and healthy.

The JackTzu can come in a variety of colors, adding to its overall charm and appeal. It may have a solid coat color such as white, black, tan, or brown. In some cases, it can also have a combination or mixture of these colors, resulting in a striking and eye-catching appearance.

Personality and Temperament of Jack Russell Shih Tzu mix

The JackTzu is known for its lively and playful personality. It has a high energy level and loves engaging in various activities. Whether it’s playing fetch, going on walks, or simply running around the backyard, this breed thrives on physical exercise and mental stimulation.

In terms of intelligence, the JackTzu is a clever and smart breed. It has a knack for learning new tricks and commands quickly. Its intelligence is coupled with a friendly and affectionate nature, making it an excellent companion for individuals and families alike.

With proper socialization from an early age, the JackTzu can get along well with other pets and children. However, it’s essential to introduce them properly and supervise interactions to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort.

Barking tendency can vary among individuals, as it can inherit traits from the vocal Jack Russell or the relatively quieter Shih Tzu. Early and consistent training can help manage and control excessive barking behaviors, ensuring a peaceful and harmonious living environment.

Known facts about JackTzu

Jack-Tzu is a friendly, intelligent, and energetic small dog that always wants to play and run. They are loyal to the owners and expect a lot of attention. Jack Russell Shih Tzu mix is a great family pet. They are playful and adore children.  

This dogs are small, but they are so strong. Therefore, they become a bit stubborn sometimes; especially, when they need attention. You can turn them in a way you want by a small treat or snack. However, you can expect a perfect companion after proper training and socializing in their first six months.

• They don’t have a strong dog smell – This is an advantage of adopting a Jack Tzu. They don’t have the strong doggy smell like some other dogs. It means you don’t need to shower them frequently.
• Rarely bark – Jack Tzu doesn’t bark much, being contrary to the reputation that small dogs are noisy. Indeed, it is the reason Jack Tzu becomes more popular among the people who live in apartments. Having a Jack Russell Shih Tzu will not have noise complaints from neighbors.
• Brave guard dog – They are good guard dogs with some unique qualities like bravery, loyalty, and defending the owner. Contrary to the body size, they will guard you against threats.

Health and Care of Jack Tzu

Like any mixed breed dog, the JackTzu may inherit certain health issues from its parent breeds. Common health concerns to be mindful of include patellar luxation, dental problems, eye issues, allergies, and skin conditions. Regular visits to the veterinarian for check-ups and a balanced diet can help maintain good overall health.

While the JackTzu has a moderate exercise requirement, it’s important to provide daily physical activity to prevent obesity and keep them mentally stimulated. Regular walks, interactive playtime, and puzzle toys are all great ways to provide exercise and promote mental well-being.

Grooming requirements for the JackTzu can vary depending on the coat length and texture. Regular brushing is recommended to prevent matting and tangling. Additionally, regular ear cleaning, teeth brushing, and nail trimming should be included in their grooming routine.

The JackTzu, like any other dog, requires a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain optimal health. Consult with a veterinarian to determine the best type of dog food for your JackTzu, considering factors such as age, size, activity level, and any specific dietary needs.

Training is crucial for the JackTzu’s development and well-being. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards and praise, work well with this breed. Engaging in mental stimulation activities, such as puzzle toys, can also help keep their minds sharp and active.

Living Conditions of Jack Tzu

The JackTzu is a versatile breed that can adapt well to different living conditions, whether it’s an apartment in the city or a house in the suburbs. While they can live indoors, they should still be provided with regular outdoor exercise to meet their activity needs.

As a small to medium-sized breed, the JackTzu does not require excessive space. However, providing them with enough room to move around comfortably is essential for their well-being. A small yard or access to regular walks in a nearby park can help fulfill their need for physical exercise.

Consideration should also be given to the climate the JackTzu will be living in. Their coat may offer some protection against cooler temperatures, but they can be sensitive to extreme heat or cold. It’s important to provide appropriate shelter and avoid exposing them to extreme weather conditions.

Feeding your Jack Russell Shih Tzu Mix

Choosing the right dog food is vital to the JackTzu’s overall health and well-being. Opt for high-quality dog food that is formulated for small to medium-sized breeds and meets their specific nutritional needs. Look for a food that contains real meat as the first ingredient and avoids artificial fillers and preservatives.

Establishing a consistent feeding schedule is important to regulate their calorie intake and avoid overfeeding. Divide their daily portion into two or three meals to prevent digestive issues and maintain a healthy weight.

Portion control is crucial to prevent obesity, a common issue in small breeds. Follow the feeding guidelines provided by the dog food manufacturer and adjust portion sizes based on your JackTzu’s activity level, age, and overall health.

In some cases, the JackTzu may have special dietary requirements due to allergies or sensitivities. It’s important to work closely with a veterinarian to identify any specific dietary needs and choose an appropriate diet.

Exercise for Jack Tzu

The JackTzu is an active and energetic breed that requires a good amount of daily exercise. Aim to provide them with at least 30 minutes to an hour of physical activity each day. This can be achieved through various activities such as walks, playtime, and interactive toys.

In addition to physical exercise, mental stimulation is equally important for the JackTzu’s well-being. Engage them in puzzle toys, obedience training, or interactive games that challenge their intelligence and keep their minds sharp.

Training needs

Basic commands are essential for a well-behaved JackTzu. Teaching them commands such as sit, stay, and come will not only make your life easier but also ensure their safety in different situations. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, will motivate them to learn and obey commands.

Socialization training is crucial for the JackTzu to develop good manners and a friendly demeanor towards other animals and people. Gradually expose them to different environments, sights, sounds, and social situations in a positive and controlled manner. This will help them grow into well-adjusted and confident dogs.

House training is an important aspect of training for any dog, including JackTzus. Establish a consistent routine and use positive reinforcement when they eliminate in the appropriate spot. With patience and consistency, they can quickly learn where and when to do their business.

Obedience training should be a priority for the JackTzu to ensure they are well-behaved and responsive to your commands. Enroll them in puppy classes or work with a professional trainer to teach advanced commands and maintain good behavior.

Crate training can be beneficial for both you and your JackTzu. It provides them with a safe and comfortable space while preventing destructive behavior or separation anxiety. Gradually introduce them to the crate using positive reinforcement and make it a positive experience.

Common Behavior Issues

As with any dog breed, the JackTzu may exhibit certain behavior issues that need to be addressed and managed. Separation anxiety can be a common issue, causing distress when left alone. Slowly acclimate them to alone time and provide them with interactive toys or puzzles to keep them occupied.

Barking can become a problem if not appropriately managed. Use positive reinforcement techniques to control excessive barking and teach them a “quiet” command. Address the underlying causes of the barking, such as boredom or anxiety, to effectively resolve the issue.

Chewing is a normal behavior for dogs, but it can become destructive if they are not provided with appropriate chew toys. Ensure they have a variety of toys to chew on and redirect their attention when they attempt to chew on inappropriate objects.

Aggressiveness can be a concern if the JackTzu is not properly socialized or trained. Early and consistent socialization, as well as obedience training, can help prevent aggressive behavior. Seek professional help if aggression issues persist or escalate.

Leash pulling can make walks frustrating and unpleasant. Teach your JackTzu loose leash walking techniques and use positive reinforcement to reward good behavior. Patience and consistency are key in overcoming leash pulling habits.

Pros and Cons of Owning a JackTzu

Pros:

• The JackTzu is a friendly and affectionate companion, providing constant love and companionship.
• They are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train.
• The JackTzu has a moderate exercise requirement, making it suitable for different lifestyles.
• Their small to medium size makes them portable and adaptable to various living situations.
• They can get along well with other pets and children with proper socialization.

Cons:

• They may have a tendency to bark excessively if not properly trained and managed.
• Grooming requirements can be demanding, especially for those with longer coats.
• Some JackTzus may inherit health issues from their parent breeds.
• The JackTzu’s high energy level requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation.
• Separation anxiety can be a common issue, causing distress when left alone.

Finding a JackTzu Puppy

When searching for a JackTzu puppy, it’s important to find a reputable breeder or consider adoption options. Reputable breeders prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs and can provide proper documentation and health checks. Research and visit multiple breeders to find one that fits your needs and values.

Adoption centers and rescue organizations are also great options if you are looking to provide a loving home to a JackTzu in need. These organizations often have a variety of dogs available for adoption and can help match you with the right companion.

Avoid purchasing a puppy from puppy mills, as these facilities prioritize profit over the welfare of the dogs. Dogs from puppy mills often suffer from health issues and poor socialization, resulting in potential behavior problems down the line. Choose to support ethical and responsible breeding practices instead.

In conclusion, the JackTzu is a delightful and lovable mix breed that can bring joy and companionship to your life. With proper care, training, and affection, this breed can thrive and become a cherished member of your family. Consider the various aspects discussed in this article to determine if the JackTzu is the right fit for your lifestyle and preferences.

FAQs about Shih Tzu Jack Russell Mix

Does Jack Tzu Get Along with Other Pets?

They like to play well with other pets like other dogs. However, Jack Tzus need to be adequately trained and socialized at a younger age to avoid some of the bad behaviors they tend to do. They are so energetic and winning-minded. Therefore, Jack Tsus may mess over other pets. And also, these dogs are kind of bossy-minded. It is advisable to keep your eyes on Jack Tsu around the larger dogs.

How big will a Jack Russell Shih Tzu mix get?

Jack Russell Shih Tzu mix is a small dog with an average height of 10-11 inches and weight of 14-23 pounds. They have longer and muscular legs even though they are smaller than purebred Jack Russell Terriers.

Are Jack Russell Shih Tzu mixes Good for Families?

Yes, they are great for families. They love children and will never get bored of spending time playing, chasing balls, and running everywhere. Jack Tzus is silent, as mentioned earlier. But, they are fearless and protective of their families.They like company; so, you have to give full attention to him. Jack Tsu will happily lay over your lap for hours, even without making a noise.

What’s the Price of Jack-Tzu mix Puppies?

The selling price of Jack-Tzu mix puppies is between 400$ to 800$ (500-950 Euros). The price is dependent on the pedigree of parents and the bloodline. However, it is possible to vary the prices within the same litter based on the puppies’ appearance. It will also cost 500$ to 600$ for initial expenses that will cover tests, shots, chipping, deworming, neutering, carrier, collar, and leash.

How long do Jack Russell Shih Tzu mixes live?

Jack Tzus have a decent life span like their parent breeds. Typically, Jack Russell Terriers live 14-16 years. Also, Shih Tzus live between 12-14 years. Therefore, as a combination of those two breeds, Jack Tzus has an average lifespan of around 13-16.

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