Dog
Pronunciation:
foh-dzoo
Breed Description:
The Fo-Tzu breed of dog is a "designer" or mixed breed that was created by crossing the Toy Fox Terrier and the Shih Tzu. Because of this, a breed type has not been established and the looks and temperament of the dog can greatly change from one puppy to the next. Generally, the Fo-Tzu will have qualities of all the parents. They are a toy sized breed of dog that should be compact and robust. The body is slightly longer than they are tall and their head is often the rounded head of the Shih Tzu with a slightly longer muzzle. The tail is long and often curls over the back of the dog.
The coat of the Fo-Tzu can range between the Toy Fox Terrier coat and the Shih Tzu coat but usually it consists of a double coat with a soft, short undercoat and a fluffy topcoat that is medium in length and medium in texture. The coat can be found in any color or marking but the common color is white with or without markings that are brown, gray or black in color.
Temperament:
The Fo-Tzu breed of dog is a designer breed and because of this, their temperament can vary greatly. However, they are known for being an affectionate and loyal family dog that usually gets along well with everyone. They are a playful little dog that can be clown like in personality and usually very sweet. They can also be very mischievous and can have their Terrier parents ability for getting into trouble. Generally, the Fo-Tzu is excellent with children of all ages and will provide them with a playful companion. The breed does very well with other dogs but they may have a high prey drive, which makes them unsuitable for homes with smaller pets, however, the prey drive is only there if they take after their Toy Fox Terrier parent.
Height:
The average height for a Fo-Tzu is between 10 to 12 inches.
Weight:
The average weight for a Fo-Tzu is between 10 to 19 pounds.
Health Problems:
The Fo-Tzu breed of dog has no known health problems, however, it is important to read up on the Toy Fox Terrier and the Shih Tzu to be aware of the health problems your puppy may be at risk for.
Living Conditions:
The Fo-Tzu breed of dog is versatile when it comes to living conditions and they can live in both apartments and homes with yards. They should not live outdoors and do best when they are inside with their family as a companion dog.
Exercise:
The Fo-Tzu breed of dog is an active breed that requires between 20 to 30 minutes of exercise each day. Generally, two good walks will meet their needs but it is also important to give them an opportunity for off leash exercise as well.
Life Expectancy:
12 to 15 years
Grooming:
The Fo-Tzu breed of dog is often clipped to keep grooming to a minimal. If they are clipped,they only need to be brushed once a week but in a full coat, expect to brush them two or three times per week. The Fo-Tzu should be bathed once or twice a month to keep their coat soft and you should wash around their eyes to prevent staining.
Origin:
The Fo-Tzu breed of dog is a designer `hybrid`breed that has become popular over the last decade or so. There is no actual origin for the breed and if you are interested in learning more about the Fo-Tzu, it is important to read up on the Toy Fox Terrier and the Shih-Tzu. Comments
The standards for all the breeds accepted to the AKC are used here for breed information, and those not part of the AKC are resourced from FCI standard information, where it is written and coded into the club rules for those breeds.
