The Auss-Tzu is a small and friendly dog that has a thick and silky coat requiring daily brushing. It is a crossbreed between a Miniature Australian Shepherd and a Shih-Tzu. These dogs are lively and require a diet that is rich in fat and high in protein to stay healthy. While they are not usually suitable for guarding, they excel in various activities such as flyball, agility training, and trick training. They are not excessively noisy or dirty, so with proper exercise and care, they can happily live in an apartment. However, they are better suited for a house with at least a small yard.
In summary, the Auss-Tzu is a tiny and sociable dog with a beautiful coat that needs regular grooming. They are a mix of a Miniature Australian Shepherd and a Shih-Tzu and require a diet high in fat and protein for their well-being. Although they are not typically used for guarding, they excel in activities like flyball, agility training, and trick training. They are not excessively loud or messy, so they can be content living in an apartment with sufficient exercise. Nonetheless, a house with a small yard is more suitable for them.
Ahead, we look at Auss-Tzu dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Auss-Tzu, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and a lot more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Auss-Tzus!
| Dog Breed | Auss-Tzu |
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 20-45 lbs (average) |
| Height | 8-15″ (average) |
| Location | Various |
| Ancestry | Australian Shepherd, Shih Tzu |
| Date of Origin | Recent |
| Group | Companion |
| Life Expectancy | 10-16 years |
| Price | $800 – $1200 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Auss-Tzu is a designer dog that combines the Miniature Australian Shepherd and the Shih-Tzu. The Shih-Tzu is an ancient breed from China, known for its hypoallergenic coat and friendly nature. It was developed by mixing the Lhasa Apso and small Chinese dogs like the Pekingese. Chinese royalty favored the Shih-Tzu for centuries as both a companion and a watchdog. On the other hand, the Australian Shepherd was developed in the United States by cattle and sheep herders in the 19th century. Its early history can be traced back to Basque shepherding dogs from Australia. These dogs were likely crossed with other working stock dogs to create a resilient herding animal. The miniature Australian Shepherd was later developed in the 1960s to create a smaller version of these energetic and versatile dogs.
When the brachycephalic Shih-Tzu is crossbred with the longer-muzzled Australian Shepherd, it often results in an increased muzzle length. This helps the Auss-Tzu breathe easily and prevents brachycephalic syndrome. While some Auss-Tzu dogs may inherit the hypoallergenic traits of the Shih-Tzu, most of them are not hypoallergenic.
🐕 Auss-Tzu Appearance
There is currently no accepted standard for this particular crossbreed, and Auss-Tzus can vary greatly from one another, even within the same litter. The majority of these dogs have broad skulls, slightly rounded faces, and small to medium-sized ears that typically flop forward or to the sides, though some of these dogs have ears that hang down from the side of their heads. They are typically small dogs, ranging in height from nine to eleven inches. Most Auss-Tzu dogs have a thick, silky coat that can be straight or wavy and comes in a variety of colors and patterns. They often have wide, rounded eyes with an expressive and alert look. Their coat, which may range in length from medium to long and has many hues and patterns of black, brown, tan, gray, and white, often has to be groomed every day to avoid unattractive and irritating tangles and matting.
| 👀 Eye Color | Blue |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black, Brown, Isabella |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Gray, White, Cream, Black, Brown |
⚡ Fun Fact: Auss-Tzu dogs need a lot of social interaction. They desire to always be with someone or around people. This breed hates being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Auss-Tzu
We are reviewing and looking at the data related to the temperament, behavior, and traits of this dog breed. Please stay tuned for our update available shortly.
🤝 Are Auss-Tzus Friendly or Aggressive?
Auss-Tzu dogs are known for being friendly and getting along well with other pets, making them a good choice for households with multiple animals. They also have an average level of friendliness towards strangers, so they may need some time to warm up to new people. However, they are kid-friendly dogs and are considered a great choice for families with children. Additionally, Auss-Tzus are cat-friendly and dog-friendly, making them suitable for multi-pet households or for those who want to participate in dog meetups or have more dogs in their family. These dogs are also often recommended for elderly individuals, as they can provide companionship and are generally well-suited for a quieter lifestyle.
This breed is known for being:
- Active
- Playful
- Loving
- Happy
- Protective
- Courageous
- Intelligent
- Friendly
- Outgoing
- Affectionate
- Lively
- Gentle
- Good-natured
🐩 Auss-Tzu Care & Maintenance
Due of potential variations in coat length and texture, this crossbreed may require different care procedures. They normally require less upkeep than the ordinary Shih-Tzu but more than the majority of Australian Shepherds. Daily brushing and combing are recommended since cats’ silky coats are commonly prone to tangles and mats that, if ignored, might harm the underlying skin. Weekly or twice-monthly washing is usually sufficient. All dogs need dental care, but smaller dogs and dogs with shorter muzzles, like the Shih-Tzu, are more prone to experience dental issues than other breeds, thus dental care may be particularly crucial for many of these dogs.
Auss-Tzu dogs are known for being low shedders, meaning they don’t lose a lot of hair. This is a natural part of their hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss can vary depending on the dog’s overall health and the breed they belong to. It’s important to note that regular bathing should be done every 6-8 weeks to keep their coat in good condition.
🍖 Food: We recommend few cups daily, costing you about $0.49 – $1.49 daily, or roughly $30.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Auss-Tzu dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly few miles per week, which equates to about 60 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Auss-Tzu dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn’t the perfect choice for you.
❤️🩹 Auss-Tzu Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Auss-Tzu Dog Breed can be:
- Patellar Luxation
- Deafness
- Hip Dysplasia
- Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome
While minor concerns include:
- Ear Infections
- Entropion
- Ectropion
- Hydrocephalus
- Brachycephalic Syndrome
- Dental Problems
- Eye Conditions
- Kidney Disease
🤧 Important: Is Auss-Tzu hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Auss-Tzu.
⚡ Auss-Tzu Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Auss-Tzu a great choice for families with young children?
The Auss-Tzu is a great choice for families with young children because they are small and friendly dogs. They are known to be patient and gentle, making them suitable companions for kids. However, supervision is always recommended when young children interact with any dog breed.
Is the Auss-Tzu breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
Yes, the Auss-Tzu breed is considered suitable for apartment living. Although they are more suited to a house with a small yard, they are not particularly noisy or messy animals. As long as they are given enough exercise and attention, they can successfully reside in an apartment.
How much exercise does a Auss-Tzu require compared to other breeds?
The Auss-Tzu requires a moderate amount of exercise compared to other breeds. They are active dogs and benefit from daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. However, their exercise needs can be met with activities such as flyball, agility training, and trick training.
Is the Auss-Tzu breed known for being good with other pets?
The Auss-Tzu breed is known for being good with other pets. They are generally friendly and sociable, making them more likely to get along well with other animals in the household. Proper socialization and introduction are still important when introducing them to other pets.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Auss-Tzu?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Auss-Tzu include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bichon Frise, and Maltese. These breeds also have similar small sizes and coat types that require regular grooming.
What are the common health issues that Auss-Tzus are prone to?
Auss-Tzus are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain health issues. Common health problems in this breed may include allergies, dental issues, hip dysplasia, and eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy diet can help prevent and manage these conditions.
Are Auss-Tzus known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Auss-Tzus are known to be relatively easy to train compared to some other breeds. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them quick learners. Consistent positive reinforcement training methods work well with this breed.
Are Auss-Tzus more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Auss-Tzus can be prone to separation anxiety, especially if they are not properly trained and socialized from a young age. It is important to gradually get them accustomed to being alone for short periods of time to prevent separation anxiety behaviors.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Auss-Tzu that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Auss-Tzu that are suitable for people with allergies include the Bichon Frise, Maltese, and Portuguese Water Dog. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats that produce fewer allergens, making them more suitable for individuals with allergies.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Auss-Tzu are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, smaller-sized dogs similar to the Auss-Tzu would be the best choice. Breeds such as the Maltese, Shih-Tzu, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are small in size and do well in limited living spaces.
Is the Auss-Tzu breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Auss-Tzu breed is generally good with children, including those with special needs. However, it is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and children, regardless of the breed. Proper training and socialization from an early age can ensure a positive relationship between the dog and children with special needs.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Auss-Tzu?
The grooming needs of the Auss-Tzu are moderate. Their thick, silky coat requires daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles. Regular bathing, ear cleaning, and nail trimming are also necessary. In terms of shedding, they are considered a low-shedding breed, but regular grooming can help manage loose hair. Compared to other breeds with longer coats, the Auss-Tzu’s grooming needs may be slightly less demanding.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Auss-Tzu dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
