Jack Russell Shih Tzu Mix (Jack Tzu) – Is It A Good Cross Breed
Jack Tzu is a small cross breed which is the result of the Jack Russell & Shih Tzu mix. They are family-friendly, playful dogs with an average lifespan of 13 to 16 years. Therefore, It would be a wise decision to adopt this little, intelligent and lovely dog breed.
If you consider adopting a Jack Russell Shih Tzu mix, you will have many common questions on your mind. I thought of sharing my research findings and insights about Jack Tzu.
I have listed the main topics that I discuss in this topic below. Feel free to jump straight to the topic you want.
Fast facts about Jack Tzu (Jack Russell Terrier and Shih Tzu Mix breed)
Average height | 10 to 11 inches |
Average weight | 14 to 23 pounds |
Lifespan | 13 to 16 years |
Suitable for | Families with children, Singles, Active seniors, Apartments |
Temperament | Affectionate, Friendly and Playful |
Good for families? | Excellent |
Other nicknames | Jack Tzu, Jatzu, Terrier Tzu, Russell Tzu |
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.
You might be interested in reading – Jack Russell Mixed dog breeds
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
Jack Tzu takes his prominent appearance from either parent. However, they have longer legs like Jack Russell. Typically, they have long faces and folded ears like Jack Russell. Most of the time, Shih Tzu’s influence affects the coat and eyes.
Sometimes, they got a beard and a mustache. Jack Tzu’s coat can be like either parent; short, medium smooth, or long, silky. Their colors are a mix of Black, Brown, Cream, White and Light brown.
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.
You might be interested in reading;
- Jack Russell And Boston Terrier Mix (Bo-Jack)
- Difference Between Jack Russell And Parson Russell Terrier
- EskiJack (American Eskimo and Jack Russell Mix)
- JackShund (Jack Russell and Dachshund Mix)
- Jack Russell and Rat Terrier Mix (Jack Rat)
- Jack Russell Terrier And Dalmatian Mix
Temperament – Common facts about Jack Tzu mix

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.

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.
Dog lovers also read;
- Jack Russell Lab Mix (Jackador)
- Jack Russell and Corgi Mix (Cojack / Corki)
- Pit Bull and Jack Russell Terrier Mix (Jack Pit)
- Jack Russell Beagle Mix (Jackabee)
- Jack Russell and Chihuahua Mix (Jack Chi / Jackahuahua)
- Jack Russell Terrier And King Charles mix (Cav-A-Jack)
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.
As a proud owner of two Jack Russell Terriers, I would love to raise a Jack Russell Shih Tzu mix known as Jack-Tzu and Russell-Tzu.
You may like to read;
- Jorkie (Jack Russell Yorkie Terrier Mix)
- Jack Russell and Poodle Mix (Jackapoo)
- Jack Russell and Pug Mix (Jug)
- Jack Russell Terrier and Border Collie mix (Border-Jack)
- Jack Russell Terrier And Husky Mix
- Jack Russell Terrier And Maltese Mix (Jacktese)
- Jack Russell Terrier And English Bulldog Mix (Bull-Jack)
- Jack Russell Terrier And German Shepherd Mix (Jack-Shepherd)
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