Standard Auss-Tzu
The Standard Auss-Tzu is a medium-sized breed designed specifically as a companion dog. This distinctive and clever hybrid results from crossing the Standard Australian Shepherd with the Shih Tzu. Its beautiful, thick, and silky coat, which combines traits from both parent breeds, features an endearing beard around the muzzle and expressive eyebrows. Available in a variety of colors, this coat is low-shedding. When it comes to personality, the Standard Auss-Tzu is incredibly loving and has a genuinely kind disposition. He interacts wonderfully with children of all ages, showcasing a playful and delightful character. If socialized with other pets from a young age, he typically adjusts well to living in multi-pet environments. This breed is perfect for those looking for a joyful and affectionate companion, although it may be more suitable for individuals with some prior dog experience. This is mainly due to his occasional stubbornness during training. Nevertheless, with consistent and gentle instruction, the Standard Auss-Tzu can learn proper behavior and manners in various situations. Given his energetic nature, he may not do well in an apartment setting and generally needs plenty of space to run and play.
Breed Origin
The Standard Auss-Tzu is a relatively recent hybrid breed that combines traits from both the Australian Shepherd and the Shih Tzu. Interestingly, despite its name, the Australian Shepherd actually originated in the American West, not Australia. This breed was originally created to support farm workers with various tasks, including herding cattle, pulling carts, retrieving game, and assisting in loading and unloading horses from trailers. Renowned for its intelligence and boundless energy, the Australian Shepherd excels in these duties and more. With ancestry that includes the Collie and several German sheepdogs, this striking breed is not only a dedicated worker but also a delightful companion. The American Kennel Club recognized the Australian Shepherd in 1993, and it has since become increasingly popular in sporting events, dog shows, and rodeos. Conversely, the origins of the Shih Tzu are somewhat enigmatic, yet it is acknowledged as one of the oldest dog breeds still in existence. Originally bred to serve as companions and protectors for Tibetan monks, the Shih Tzu eventually found its way to the Chinese imperial court, where it was highly valued as a gift. In this setting, these cheerful little dogs became fashionable, leading to selective breeding for a more elegant appearance. They have been poetically compared to lions, owls, phoenixes, frogs, and flower petals, enhancing their enchanting appeal. The breed's captivating presence and distinctive charm make it a favorite in dog shows, where it consistently garners admiration. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Shih Tzu in 1969, and its affectionate, playful, and gentle disposition has made it a cherished companion for people of all ages ever since.
Breed Appearance
The appearance of the Standard Auss-Tzu can differ greatly among individual dogs due to its mixed breed characteristics. Typically, this breed is known for its luxurious, thick fur, which comes in a variety of colors, such as white with vibrant markings and tan highlighted with black and white. A defining feature is its charming, lion-like face reminiscent of the Shih Tzu, framed by fur around its muzzle and eyes. With sturdy legs, a short muzzle, and a curled tail, the Standard Auss-Tzu often resembles a larger version of the Shih Tzu, showcasing the striking colors of an Australian Shepherd. Its ears are folded, and its bright brown eyes convey a sense of playfulness, intelligence, and warmth. While the dense coat makes the Standard Auss-Tzu well-adapted to cooler temperatures, it generally prefers milder climates.
Care Routine
The Standard Auss-Tzu is not a heavy shedder, but its long, silky coat does require a moderate level of care. To keep the coat free from tangles and maintain its cleanliness, it’s advisable to brush the dog two to three times weekly. Ear cleaning should be done about half as often as brushing to eliminate debris and excess moisture, which can help prevent infections or irritations. Bathing should be limited to every two months, unless the coat becomes especially dirty. Additionally, it’s important to trim your dog’s nails twice a month to keep their paws healthy, prevent snags, and reduce scratching. Regularly brushing their teeth three times a week will also help minimize tartar buildup.
Behavior & Temperament
The Standard Auss-Tzu is a remarkably loving breed. With a blend of loyalty and affection inherited from its ancestry, it thrives on human interaction. However, it’s important to recognize that this breed does not primarily seek to please its owners, even though it holds a deep affection for them. This characteristic can create some challenges during training, but with consistent and gentle guidance, the Standard Auss-Tzu can learn effectively. Additionally, this breed is wonderful with children of all ages and typically gets along well with other dogs, as long as there is supervision. Interestingly, the Standard Auss-Tzu is not known for excessive barking and is quite comfortable being alone; therefore, while it is a devoted companion, it can be left unattended for reasonable periods without significant worries about separation anxiety. In conclusion, the Standard Auss-Tzu is a cheerful, easygoing, and playful dog, making it an ideal companion for anyone.
Play & Exercise
Given the lively disposition of the Australian Shepherd, you should expect that your Standard Auss-Tzu will need around two hours of vigorous play each day. This playtime can include a variety of activities such as agility training, long walks, fetch games in the yard, or obedience drills. Engaging in training is essential to keep your dog both mentally engaged and physically tired. Although the Standard Auss-Tzu may pose some training challenges, with commitment and patience, he can learn a wide range of tricks and commands that will make life easier for both of you. Even though this breed isn't particularly large, its high energy levels make it unsuitable for apartment living. Instead, it flourishes in a home with a yard where it can run freely and requires consistent exercise to avoid behavioral problems.
Things to Know
Cups Per Day
2.0 Cups
Daily Activity
120 Minutes
Average Lifespan
13 Years
Origin
2000's
Type
Crossbreeds
Size
Medium
Origin Country
United States
Brush Frequency
Weekly
Coat Texture
Straight
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Height & Weight
Weight
35 lbs (16 kg)Male: 40 lbs (18 kg) , Female: 30 lbs (14 kg)
Height
15 inches (38 sm)Male: 16 inches (41 sm) , Female: 14 inches (36 sm)
6 Months
25 lbs ( m 25 lbs, f 25 lbs )
10 inches ( m 10 inches, f 10 inches )
12 Months
32 lbs ( m 32 lbs, f 32 lbs )
13 inches ( m 13 inches, f 13 inches )
18 Months
37 lbs ( m 37 lbs, f 37 lbs )
16 inches ( m 16 inches, f 16 inches )
Eye Colors
Brown
Nose Colors
Black
Coat Colors
Cream
Red
Blue
Pied
White
Brown
Gray
Black
