Teddy Bear Dog (Zuchon / Shichon)
Designer Mixed Breed - Shih Tzu x Bichon Frise - Living Stuffed Animal
8-16 lbsWeight
9-12 inHeight
12-15 yrsLifespan
White, Cream, Apricot, Brown, PartiColors
Designer Mixed Breed - Shih Tzu x Bichon Frise - Living Stuffed Animal
The Teddy Bear Dog (Zuchon / Shichon) is a designer crossbreed that blends two distinct dogs: the Shih Tzu, an ancient Tibetan-Chinese lapdog, and the Bichon Frise, a merry powder-puff companion. Breeders combine the two hoping to pair the Shih Tzu's best traits — luxurious, low-shedding coat and a friendly lapdog nature — with the Bichon Frise's fluffy, low-shedding coat and a sunny disposition, all in one companion.
As a first-generation mix, the Teddy Bear Dog (Zuchon / Shichon) is not a standardized breed, so puppies — even littermates — can vary in size, coat, and personality depending on which parent they take after. Most are small dogs, typically weighing around the range shown above. Thanks to the Shih Tzu side, many — though not all — inherit a lower-shedding coat that some allergy sufferers tolerate better. The best way to picture an individual Teddy Bear Dog (Zuchon / Shichon) is to get to know both parent breeds.
As a first-generation mix, the Teddy Bear Dog (Zuchon / Shichon) is not a standardized breed, so puppies — even littermates — can vary in size, coat, and personality depending on which parent they take after. Most are small dogs, typically weighing around the range shown above. Thanks to the Shih Tzu side, many — though not all — inherit a lower-shedding coat that some allergy sufferers tolerate better. The best way to picture an individual Teddy Bear Dog (Zuchon / Shichon) is to get to know both parent breeds.
Teddy Bear Dog (Zuchon / Shichon)s tend to be affectionate, outgoing, and charming — and, from the Bichon Frise side, cheerful, affectionate, and playful. From its Shih Tzu parent it often inherits a luxurious, low-shedding coat and a friendly lapdog nature, while the Bichon Frise contributes a fluffy, low-shedding coat and a sunny disposition. The blend usually makes an affectionate, family-oriented companion, but because temperament can lean either way, early socialization and consistent, positive handling are important to bring out the best of both parents.
A moderately active mix, the Teddy Bear Dog (Zuchon / Shichon) does well with around 45–60 minutes of daily exercise — a couple of walks plus some play. It enjoys activity but is also happy to relax at home once its needs are met.
Coat care depends on which parent a puppy favors. Those taking after the Shih Tzu often have a wavy or curly, low-shedding coat that needs brushing several times a week and professional clipping every 6–8 weeks to prevent matting; others shed more and need only a weekly brush. Keep ears clean, nails trimmed, and teeth brushed regularly.
The Teddy Bear Dog (Zuchon / Shichon) responds best to patient, consistent, reward-based training and early socialization. Short, upbeat sessions work better than repetition or heavy correction. Establishing clear, kind boundaries early helps it grow into a well-adjusted companion.
Mixed-breed dogs often enjoy some 'hybrid vigor,' but the Teddy Bear Dog (Zuchon / Shichon) can still inherit any of the health conditions common to its parent breeds. Owners should be aware of breathing issues, eye conditions, dental disease, skin allergies, and patellar luxation. Buying from a breeder who health-tests both the Shih Tzu and the Bichon Frise parents, keeping your dog at a healthy weight, and staying current with routine veterinary care are the best ways to support a long, healthy life.
| Stage | Daily Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy | 1-2.5 cups | 3 meals/day |
| Adult | 1.5-3 cups | 2 meals/day |
| Senior | Reduce 10-20% | Joint support |
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Puppy | $1,000-$3,000 |
| Monthly Food | $25-$50 |
| Annual Vet | $300-$750 |
The Teddy Bear Dog earns its name completely - with round dark eyes, button nose, and cloud-soft fur, they look almost exactly like a stuffed teddy bear brought to life.
Both Shih Tzus and Bichon Frises make exceptional therapy dogs. Teddy Bear Dogs are increasingly used in hospital and care home settings due to their gentle, non-threatening appearance and temperament.