Britzu: Hybrid Dog (Brittany x Shih Tzu)
Character: Gentle, Fun-loving, Affectionate
Purpose: Loyal Companion, Competitions, Guardian, Hunting
Trainability: Intelligent, Willing to Please, Praise Based Learner
Grooming Needs: Weekly Bathing
Weight: +/- 15 lbs. Height: +/- 11-13 inches (at the shoulder)
Fur: Soft, Silky, Full, Wavy, Lower Shedding
Color: Black & White | Chocolate & White
L
ife Span: +/- 10 years to 16 years
AKC Recognition: Not Recognized (Hybrid)
Health Concerns: Considered Healthier than Purebred Parents
Basic Info:
The "Britzu" is a smaller hybrid dog of sound structure from a 50% Brittany and 50% Shih Tzu breeding, which makes this dog one of the most endearing, versatile, intelligent, and loyal companions of a lifetime. Cultivating a diverse gene pool allows for easy prediction of size, appearance, and temper improvements when the attributes of both breeds are prepotent, similar, and complementary. However, some unique breed attributes, like "pointing," are still prepotent and could be inherited. For this reason, research may be needed to help better understand your dog and/or determine if a mixed breed is right for you. One way to do that is to study the traits of both breeds, which are innate in both pure and outcross breedings. Genetic Quality:
Another important consideration for a mixed breed is the genetic quality of the parents. For example, not all hybrid dogs are from registered stock or tested, but ours are. You may find it exciting to know our Brittanys are primarily used in a pure breed program (our first Britzu litter occurred by accident during an illness with Covid). They are also descendants of one to two of the most influential studs in the history of the breed including Hall of Fame, NSTRA CH, Winner Trial of Champions, Grand National Champions, Nestle-Purina Dog of the YR, American Field Champion, and more. Similarly, our Shih Tzu stud was imported from Russia. His genetics are from some of the most influential show stock globally, including a top producing sires and top producing bi***es for multiple years along with and many other American and Canadian champion, multi best in show specialty winners. Brittany Description:
The Brittany is a small-sized dog that is considered one of the most desirable bird dog breeds and dream companions for families and hunters alike. In addition to being one of the most intelligent and agile dog breeds currently recognized by AKC, their affectionate, sensitive, energetic, and fun-loving nature makes them extremely easy to train, gentle and loyal family members, and highly competitive show, competition, and hunting candidates. As a matter of fact, Brittanys have earned AKC's Dual Champion title—which is awarded to dogs that have earned BOTH Show Champion and Field Champion titles—more than any other sport group breed. The Brittany is bred to stay within its owner's range (usually 30’-40') when hunting and will naturally circle back, as needed, as they scent. They also point, flush, and retrieve on land and water. The breed has fur and sheds, but we clip the bodies (leaving the leg and tail feathers) to reduce cleanup during warmer months. Their height is 17.5-20.5" at the shoulder, their weight is 30-45 lbs, and their life span is 12-14 years. Health Concerns: Although uncommon, hip dysplasia, megaesophagus (esophageal dilatation), and epilepsy have been reported in smaller numbers. Shih Tzu Description:
The Shih Tzu (aka mini lion) is a smaller, courageous dog of sound structure that has long been one the most popular breeds recognized by AKC. It was bred primarily as a family companion and guardian with an endearing character that radiates boundless affection, friendliness, happiness, and trust. The breed is sensitive and needs to be treated kindly, but they love to play, snuggle, and join in on endless adventures with gentle adults and children of all ages. Shih Tzus have hair, which is double-layered, dense, and grows past their feet if not trimmed, making them a good choice for people with light allergies or for those who dislike the cleanup of shedding dogs. The Shih Tzu stands 8-11" at the shoulder, weighs 9-16 lbs, and has a life span of 11-16 years. Health Concerns: Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (50% have varying breathing issues), intervertebral disk disease (seen in shorter legs/longer back breeds), hip dysplasia, stenotic nares (narrow nostrils), harderian gland prolapse (tear gland swells), hypothyroidism. Rearing:
Our puppies are raised in our home and handled daily. We use both desensitizing and socialization methods to expose the puppies to other animals, people, noises, textures, obstacles, etc., in a changing environment to help develop balance, positive associations, and resiliency to things they commonly experience later. We also teach house training, human communication, recall cues, low-stress handling, trust, confidence, etc., to help make the transition to new homes easier. Housetraining preferences are taught starting at 3-4 weeks with the use of separate elimination area and outdoor training (weather permitting). Feeding puppies on a schedule, which helps regulate their developing GI tract, also means going on schedule—makes house training MUCH easier. Crate training is gently introduced in the litter's playpen as a resting/safe place for the puppies to sleep or play. Short sessions with the door closed before leaving for their new homes, but at no time are the puppies allowed to stress or cry as to avoid negative experiences. Recall, or the ability to come when called, is one of the most important lessons we try to teach our puppies because it can help protect them should they accidentally get loose. Besides recall, some puppies also learn the sit command while we begin to teach focus for future training. In summary, we help teach our learning puppies that the world is safe and fun because we believe it makes for more confident and resilient dogs for future owners to love and enjoy for a lifetime. Inquiring about a Puppy:
Our puppies are carefully matched with potential forever homes. Please share as much information as possible about your lifestyle will provide the understanding necessary to make a better match over s*x and color inquires. And don't forget there are never bad questions, so ask away! I'm here to support you and your puppy and to help ensure a successful transition from my home to yours—and always. Reserving a Puppy:
Advanced deposits are accepted on special occasions for upcoming litters, please inquire. Most puppies are offered to new homes after 12 weeks of age at which time they will have had age appropriate vaccinations and health care. Veterinarian and previous home references can be provided and will be required. Waitlist is available on a very limited basis for approved homes—we are NOT a puppy mill. Links of Interest:
The American Brittany Club:
http://www.theamericanbrittanyclub.org
American Shih Tzu Club:
https://www.shihtzu.org
