10 Things You Didn’t Know about The Shinese
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For centuries people have called the dog their best friend. They’ve sat on the laps of kings, watched our flocks, and guarded our homes and families. Indeed, it’s hard to consider life without the dog. Through the years, we’ve even found ways to take the dog, and through selective breeding, create breeds which perform certain tasks. For instance, the brave Kangol dog of Turkey helps to guard homes from intruders, while the delicate toy poodle gives companionship and comfort to their owner. Today, people continue to breed dogs to fulfill a certain purpose, and the Shinese is one of those new dogs. If you’re new to the world of the adorable Shinese, then sit back and learn a few facts about this new hybrid dog.
1. The Shinese is a Designer Dog
The Shinese is an Designer Dog. This means that it’s not a recognized breed, per se. Instead, a designer dog is a hybrid dog that becomes so popular that it becomes “in fashion” to own one. By hybrid, we mean that it’s a dog that is a cross between two popular breeds. Technically speaking, they are “mutts”. In other words, they become designer dogs only when they become fashionable to own. People love these hybrid breeds because they have the best qualities of both breeds. The Designer Dog Kennel Club has a list of the dogs they recognize as designer dogs at Dogbreedinfo.
2. The Shinese is a Cross Between a Shi Tzu and Pekingese
Now that you know what a designer dog is, it’s time to get to know the two breeds that make up the Shinese. The Shinese is a relatively new designer dog on the scene. While it is a recent addition to the dog world, it’s parents are definitely not. In fact, both the Shi Tzu and Pekingese each come with a rich history as lap dogs for Chinese royalty.
3. The Shinese is an Expensive Dog
Did you know that a Shinese puppy can actually be more expensive than its purebred parents? Yep, that’s true. Depending on the breeder and the lineage of its parents, the Shinese can go anywhere from $600 to over $1000 per puppy. As you can see, once a dog is called a “designer dog”, they have retained themselves a place in the market. No longer a “mutt”, this mixed breed commands a high price because they are in demand. The price will really skyrocket if the parents have a long and fruitful lineage, or are winners in the dog show world.
4. The Shih Tzu was Once Thought to Be the Incarnation Household Gods
Did you know that of the Shinese parents, the Shih Tzu, was thought to be descended from the gods? According to history as we know it, the Shih Tzu was bred by Tibetan Monks, and is considered the oldest dog breed in the world. It seems they had this desire to breed “little lions”, dogs that would be both guard dogs, as well as trusted companions. But that’s not all. The people during that time, believed that the Shih Tzu were little gods, so welcomed them into their lives. So, there you have it, that little Shinese has a pretty awesome spiritual and royal background!
5. The Shinese is Known by Other Names
If you happen to find this little designer dog to your liking, and wish to get one for yourself, you may run into some stumbling blocks when doing a search. That’s because this wonderful, intelligent and loyal dog has other names besides Shinese. These names are: Peke-A-Tzu, Peke-Tzu, and Shih-Teze. Including these names in your search for a breeder may help you out.
6. Their “Look” is Not a Sure Thing
When we say their look is not a sure thing, we mean that their appearance is not a sure thing. In other words, when you buy a Doberman puppy, you pretty much know what it will grow into. However, with the Shinese, you have no idea until they grow up. Some Shinese dogs will have the cute, flat face of a Pekingese, while others will have the snout of a Shih Tzu. So, it’s a case of pay your money, take your chances.
7. The Shinese is Prone to Weight Gain
This is a tough one for Shinese owners. Why? Because the Shinese is such a character, such a sweet and endearing little pup, that it may be hard to resist feeding them when they beg. But, sadly, this can hurt the little dogs. To avoid this, try to feed only healthy snacks. Leave cookies, pies and cakes off the Shinese’s menu. Try to feed them delicious, wholesome food. Organic is best if you have access to it. But please, limit the table scraps.
8. They Require Exercise or They Become Lackadaisical
By nature, the Shinese is a very active breed. They enjoy frolicking, running and having a whole lot of fun with toys. However, if the owner doesn’t indulge the Shinese in this type of activity, and leaves them to lounge around on the couch or even carries them everywhere, there is a danger that the Shinese will turn into a couch sloth. Once this happens, this bright, smart little pooch may take on destructive behaviors in order to alleviate the boredom. Remember, dogs get bored too. When dogs get bored, they may start digging through the kitchen trash bin, or chewing up furniture.
9. You Cannot Turn a Shinese into an AKC Show dog
For any of you considering showing your Shinese at a dog show run by the American Kennel Club, or AKC, sadly the answer is no. This is because the AKC has very stringent rules and regulations to meet before it considers a designer dog a recognized breed. However, the Shinese can be registered with other groups. The groups which accept the Shinese are:
- The International Designer Canine Registry
- Dog Registry of America, Inc
- Designer Dogs Kennel Club
- Designer Breed Registry
- American Canine Hybrid Club
10. Before You Buy, Know the Breeding History
While we stated that the Shinese is a cross between a Pekingese and Shih Tzu, there’s a bit more to know before you buy. You need to know the difference between a cross between a Pekingese and Shih Tzu vs a one that is not. Believe it or not, some buyers are quite particular, and only want a Shinese that is from a purebred Pekingese and Shih Tzu. You see, some Shinese breeders will breed two Shinese dogs together to get certain colors or appearances. So, if this is important to you, it’s up to you to ask the breeder beforehand, if the dog you’re buying is a cross between two purebreds, or the breeding of two Shinese dogs.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, ten facts about the much adored, little mischief maker, the Shinese. With their unique parentage, this designer dog will not only bring much joy into your home, but also the loyal attentiveness of an excellent watch dog. Short in stature, but large in heart and soul, this energetic angel will keep you company on walks or lounging on the couch, binge watching your favorite show. Having the best of each breed, ensures that you will have a steadfast, furry partner for life.
