Can’t decide between a French Bulldog and a Shih Tzu?
Why don’t you choose a dog that brings out the best of the two breeds?
Yes, you heard that right.
Come with us as we tell you more about the French Bulldog and Shih Tzu mix, including its traits, temperament, size, exercise, and grooming needs, and help you decide if this is the dog for you.
Breed Overview
A French Bulldog and Shih Tzu mix, popularly known as the French Bull Tzu, is a charming designer dog that brings out the best of a French Bulldog and a Shi Tzu.
The table below gives a brief overview of this stunning breed:
| Trait | French Bulldog Shih Tzu mix |
| Other names | French Bull Tzu, Shitzu Bulldog, Bullshitz |
| Dog breed group | Mixed breed |
| Purpose | Companionship |
| AKC Recognition | Not recognized |
| Size | Small |
| Height | 8-12 inches |
| Weight | 15-25 pounds |
| Coat type | Short to medium, single-coated, straight |
| Coat color | Black, white, brown, red, fawn |
| Temperament | Loving, friendly, playful, and good-natured |
| Grooming needs | Moderate |
| Trainability | Moderate |
| Exercise needs | 30-45 minutes of exercise daily |
| Child friendliness | High |
| Dog friendliness | High |
| Health | Relatively good |
| Lifespan | 10-14 years |
| Puppy cost | $500-$1000 |
What is a French Bulldog Shih Tzu Mix?
A French Bulldog Shih Tzu Mix is a little affectionate designer dog that results from crossbreeding a French Bulldog and a Shih Tzu. This dog is also called Shih Tzu Bulldog, Bully Tzu, or Bullshitz. This first-generation hybrid dog combines the best attributes of the Frenchie and the Shih Tzu.
Parent Breeds
While the exact origins of a Frenchie Shih Tzu mix remain largely unknown, its parents have a rich history. The Shitzu bulldog is a mix of French and Shih Tzu. This hybrid dog was created to bring out the best of Frenchies and Shih Tzus.
To understand the kind of dog a Frenchie Tzu mix is, it’s important to learn about its parents.
French Bulldog
Source: Wallpaper Flare
- French Bulldog originated from England in the 1900s
- Frenchies are believed to have been originally bred by crossing English Toy Bulldogs and Parisian ratter dogs.
- The toy Bulldogs were bred by English lacemakers living in Nottingham as companion dogs.
- After losing their craft, These dogs were introduced to France when the lacemakers were forced to move with them to Normandy, France.
- These toy dogs were further with local ratter dogs in France, including terriers and pugs, to create the French Bulldog we know today.
- The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1898.
- Frenchies became a favorite among celebrities like Martha Stewart and Lady Gaga.
- The French Bulldog is today rated the 4th most popular dog breed by the AKC.
Shih Tzu
Source: Wallpaper Flare
- The origin of the Shih Tzu can be traced to Tibet.
- Shih Tzus are believed to be a mix of the Lhasa Apso and another small Chinese breed, most likely the Pekingese.
- This dog then made its way into China, where it became a favorite pet among the royal families.
- However, the breed nearly became extinct during the Chinese Revolution.
- It wasn’t until the 1930s that the breed started to get known outside China.
- Shih Tzus first appeared in America in the early 20th century, where they have since become favorite pets.
- The Shih Tzu is classified in the toy group with a height of 8-10 inches and 4-7Kgs.
French Bull Tzu
- Being a designer breed, it’s hard to tell the exact origins and when the French Bull Tzu was first bred.
- This is mainly because you can’t tell whether the mix occurred accidentally or through intentional breeding.
- However, experts believe that Shitzu Bulldogs were first bred in the United States around 30 years ago.
Appearance
Typical of mixed breeds, it’s hard to predict what a French Bulldog and Shih Tzu mix puppy will look like. However, a French Bull Tzu is generally a small dog with a short snout, a stocky and muscular build, traits that it inherits from its Bulldog parent. This dog can also be leaner, just like its Shih Tzu parent. It’s also likely to be flat-faced, just like both its parents.
French Bull Tzus can have large, erect bat ears similar to a Frenchie or floppy ears like a Shih Tzu. They have a short to medium-length coat that comes in various colors.
Shin Tzu and Frenchie Mix Size, height, and Weight
Shih Tzu and Frenchie mix is a small dog that stands between 8-12 inches in height and weighs 15-25 pounds when fully grown. There are no size differences between the male and female French Bulldog Tzus.
French Bulldog Tzu Mix coat colors and types
A French Bulldog Tzu features a short to medium length, straight single coat which can be slightly wavy. The coat can be slightly shaggy and come in various colors, including black, white, cream, fawn, red, brindle, or brown.
Temperament
Source: Wallpaper Flare
A Frenchie Tzu mix is a loyal, loving, and affectionate dog that always loves being beside its owners and family. This little spunky dog loves to be the center of attention. It’s also gentle, energetic, and playful, making it a perfect companion for children. Shitzu Bulldogs have a lovable character and adaptability, making them excellent companions for individuals and families.
If properly trained and socialized early, Shitzu Bulldogs can get along well with all people, other dogs, and pets. Frenchie Shih Tzu mixes are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. However, they also have a stubborn streak and thus require a consistent and patient trainer.
Do Frenchie Tzu Mixes make great family pets?
Yes, Frenchie Tzu mixes are known for their extremely loyal and friendly nature, making them great family pets. These designer dogs can get along well with everyone, including children and other dogs or pets.
Are Frenchie Tzu Mixes affectionate dogs?
Yes, Frenchie Tzu mixes are highly affectionate dogs that love spending time with their owners and families. These dogs love to cuddle and are happy to play the lapdog role.
Nutritional Needs
Shitzu Bulldogs require a high-quality, well-balanced diet to keep them fit and at healthy weight ranges. Their food should contain healthy amounts of animal-based proteins, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It should also have good sources of supplements like chondroitin and glucosamine.
Feeding Guidelines
Being small dogs, these designer dogs don’t need a lot of food. The specific portion of food you’ll feed your dog depends on its size, weight, and health conditions.
Generally, this dog will need between 1 cup of food split into two meals daily. Ensure that your Frenchie Tzu mix does not overfeed to prevent obesity-related complications.
Suggested Brands
You can check brands like Pet Plate, Royal Canin, and Hill’s Science Diet for high-quality and well-balanced food for your Frenchie Shih Tzu mix.
Is French Bulldog Tzu Mix hypoallergenic?
No, the French Bulldog mix is not hypoallergenic. This hybrid dog sheds lightly, making it unideal for people with dog-related allergies or sensitive skin.
Grooming Needs & Shedding
French Bulldog Tzu mixes have low grooming needs. These dogs have short to medium-length coats with low shedding levels. Regular coat brushing, at least 3 times a week or daily if your dog has a longer coat, will keep it healthy and free from tangles. This will help to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
Additionally, you’ll need to brush your dog’s teeth, clean its ears, and trim its nails routinely. Shitzu Bulldogs will also need their facial wrinkles cleaned and dried regularly to prevent infections.
Do French Bulldogs Mixed with Tzu Shed?
Yes, Frenchie Tzu mixes shed lightly. While Frenchies shed moderately, Shih Tzus are light shedders. You can thus expect your Shitzu bulldog to shed lightly. Regular brushing will help keep the coat in good condition.
Health Issues and Lifespan
While French Bulldog and Shih Tzu mixes are generally healthy dogs with an average lifespan of 10-14 years, they are likely to inherit some genetic health issues from their parents. The following are some of the health problems that may affect a Frenchie Tzu mix:
- Pulmonic stenosis: This congenital heart defect refers to the narrowing of the valve between the right ventricle and the pulmonic artery. This condition can result in heart failure, thickening of the heart muscles, and sudden death.
- Breathing issues: Frenchie Shih Tzu mixes are susceptible to breathing issues like brachycephalic airway syndrome and stenotic nares due to their flat facial structures.
- Obesity: Due to their genetics, exercise restrictions, and huge appetites, Shitzu bulldogs are prone to obesity which can lead to other serious health issues.
- Eye diseases: Shitzu Bulldogs have large protruding eyes, which expose them to trauma, irritation, and dryness of the cornea.
- Intervertebral disc disease: This is a degenerative condition that affects the discs in the spinal column resulting in compression of nerves and, consequently, pain and immobility.
- Allergies: A Frenchie Tzu mix will likely have skin issues such as demodectic mange, yeast infections, and dermatitis like its Frenchie parent.
Exercise Needs
French Bulldog Tzu mixes require regular but moderate exercise to keep them healthy. This is essential as these dogs are prone to obesity. This hybrid dog can also not control its body temperature and quickly develop breathing issues. As such, it’s important not to overexert Shitzu bulldogs, especially in hot weather, and provide plenty of water and shade during outdoor activities.
Ideally, Shitzu bulldogs need between 20-30 minutes of exercise daily to keep them physically active. Daily walks, outdoor play sessions, and fetch games are great for these dogs. You can also provide puzzle toys to improve your dog’s mental well-being.
As Family Dogs
Due to their affectionate and loving nature, Frenchie Tzu mixes make great family dogs. They are extremely friendly and sociable dogs that relate well with all people and other dogs and pets. They also love spending time with their owners and families. These dogs are known for their loyalty to their families. Additionally, they make great companions for children as they are gentle, cheerful, and playful.
French Bulldog Tzu Mix living conditions
Due to its small size, the Shitzu bulldog is perfect for apartment living. However, this dog is highly adaptable and can suit any home, small or large, with yards as long as its exercise needs are sufficiently met.
This dog does best in environments that are not too hot, as it’s incapable of regulating its body temperature. You should thus ensure that you keep your dog cool by providing shade or scheduling its exercise in the early mornings or late afternoons.
As Guard Dogs
French Bulldog Shih Tzu mixes are extremely friendly and get along well with everyone, including strangers. As such, they don’t make good watchdogs. However, these dogs are fiercely loyal and protective, making them good guard dogs.
French Bulldog Tzu Behavioral Issues
Shitzu Bulldogs can have certain behavioral issues. These include:
- They can easily suffer from separation anxiety: This hybrid dog craves constant attention from its owners and family. It thus can’t stand being alone for a long time. You should not leave your dog alone for lengthy durations.
- Has tendencies to bark and chew if bored: Leaving a Shitzu Bulldog alone for a long time may lead it to engage in undesirable behavior like chewing and barking. Keep your dog busy by providing physical and mental stimulation.
- French Bulldog Tzu mixes can be very stubborn: This trait they inherit from their Frenchie parents and can make training challenging. You’ll need to remain patient while training them and use positive reinforcement training techniques.
- They can be aggressive if not properly trained: Your Shitzu bulldog must be trained and socialized early to minimize their aggressiveness.
Price
While the price of a Frenchie Tzu mix will vary depending on your location and breeder, you can expect to pay between $500-$1,000 to acquire one.
Where to find them?
You can purchase a Frenchie Tzu mix from a breeder or adopt one from local shelters or rescue centers.
If you purchase a Shitzu bulldog, look for one with a good reputation and positive reviews. The table below shows some of the breeders of Frenchie Tzu mixes:
| Breeder | Contacts |
| Lancaster Puppies | Website: lancasterpuppies.com |
| Pawrade | Website: pawrade.com |
| Puppy Finder | Website: puppyfinder.com |
| Charlotte Dog Club | Website:charlottedogclub.com |
French Bulldog Tzu puppies
When looking for a French Bulldog Tzu puppy, look for a responsible and reputable breeder. This will guarantee you of getting a healthy dog. Stay away from puppy mills that sell their puppies at lower prices than the average market price, as they may not have the best health.
French Bulldog Tzu: Pros and Cons
Like any other dog, a French Bulldog Tzu has advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
- They are low-maintenance dogs since they have low grooming and exercise needs.
- Shitzu bulldogs are small in size and hence perfect for apartment living
- They are loyal and affectionate, making them great family pets.
- They are playful and gentle hence great with kids.
Cons
- They are prone to breathing issues
- They suffer from separation anxiety
- They are not hypoallergenic and hence not good choices for people with canine allergies.
French Bull Tzu: In a Nut Shell
A French Bull Tzu is a charming and loving dog that loves spending time with its owners and families. These dogs are known for their eager-to-please and loyal nature, making them great family dogs. They get along well with everyone, including strangers, other dogs, and pets.
What is a French Bulldog and Shih Tzu mix called?
A French Bulldog and Shih Tzu mix is called a French Bull Tzu, Shitzu Bulldog, or Bullshitz.
Can you breed French Bulldog with Shih Tzu?
Yes, you can breed a French Bulldog with a Shih Tzu. Breeding these purebred dogs creates a charming and loving designer dog that’s perfect as a family pet.
What is a Bulldog Shih Tzu called?
A French Bulldog and Shih Tzu mix is called a French Bull Tzu, Shitzu Bulldog, or Bullshitz.
What 2 dog breeds make a French Bulldog?
A French Bulldog results from breeding toy English Bulldogs and local Parisian ratter dogs.
What dog is mistaken for French Bulldog?
Boston Terriers are often confused with French Bulldogs due to their small size and similarities in appearance.
How do you know if Frenchie is mixed?
You can tell that a Frenchie is mixed by looking at its appearance. A mixed Frenchie will have some features that adhere to the breed’s standards.
How do you tell if your dog is purebred or mixed?
You can compare your dog with the official breed standards, check out the pedigree papers, or conduct a DNA test to determine whether your dog is purebred or mixed.
What does a perfect French Bulldog look like?
A perfect French bulldog has iconic bat-like ears that stand erect, a compact size, a muscular build, and large expressive eyes that are usually brown.
What dog breeds can you not mix?
The dog breeds that should never be mixed include rottweilers and poodles, Doberman Pinscher and Boston terriers, golden retrievers, poodles, Dachshunds, and Komondors.
Do mixed-breed dogs have problems?
Mixed-breed dogs are generally considered healthier due to their genetic diversity. However, these dogs can be susceptible to health problems that may be prevalent in their parent breeds.
Is the French Bulldog Tzu (French Bull Tzu) Mix Right For Me?
If you are still not sure if this is the dog for you, this may help:
A French Bulldog Tzu might be the right dog for you if…
- If you are looking for a low-maintenance dog with low grooming needs.
- If you want a loyal, affectionate, and loving pup that will make an excellent family pet.
- If you are a multi-pet household and desire a dog that can get along with other dogs and pets.
- If you are looking for a perfect companion for children or elderly people.
A French Bulldog Tzu might not be the right dog for you if…
- If you have allergies to dog hair and want a hypoallergenic dog that does not shed.
- If you want a dog with no breathing issues.