French Bull Tzu

Any Shih Tzu parents will let you know that looking after this toy breed’s luscious fur can be something of a part-time job in itself, but thankfully, the coat of a Bulldog Shih Tzu mix doesn’t need a lot by way of maintenance. 

Thrice-weekly brushing with a pin brush will keep the coat untangled and looking shiny, while fur around the eyes might need to be trimmed to ensure it doesn’t hinder their vision. If the coat is thicker or denser, some parents might opt for a puppy cut instead. 

Along with this, parents will need to stay on top of routine tasks, too. This includes trimming nails every few weeks so they don’t curl under or break, brushing teeth every day and checking ears for signs of infection or inflammation.

French Bull Tzu Health Risks

Both the Shih Tzu and French Bulldog are more likely to be affected by certain health conditions at one point or other during their lives, so it only follows that this is true of their hybrid offspring.

Sometimes, this can’t be avoided, but the risk is certainly lowered when parents deal with responsible breeders that carry out screening on their animals and remove genetic carriers of disease from the reproductive pool.

Health risks this breed may be affected by can include:

• Brachycephalic Syndrome
• Spinal problems — such as Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
• Hip Dysplasia
• Pulmonic Stenosis 

Brachycephalic Syndrome

This is one of the most common health disorders diagnosed in French Bulldogs, with the irony being this is caused by the squished-up face that makes them so irresistible to so many parents in the first place. It can also be diagnosed in Shih Tzus, too.

Dogs affected by this condition exhibit symptoms such as labored breathing, difficulty eating and overheating in hot weather. Unfortunately, Brachycephalic Syndrome can’t be cured outright, but only managed through weight management, lifestyle changes or surgery to expand airways.

Spinal Problems

There are two spinal problems to which a mix of Bulldog and Shih Tzu are more prone to developing. One is Hemivertebra, a congenital condition in which one or more of the vertebrae are deformed leading to a twisted spine. 

This will only cause an issue if the spinal cord is compressed or the spinal column is weakened. If this happens, the main symptoms are weakness in the hind legs, incontinence and pain. In these more serious instances, your vet might recommend surgery, which can often lead to a full recovery.

Another more commonly diagnosed spinal condition is Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. This occurs when one or more of the shock-absorbing discs located between the vertebrae begin to deteriorate and press on the spinal cord, leading to a lot of pain, reduced movement or even paralysis in serious cases.

The treatment options available to dogs with Intervertebral Disc Disease depends on the severity of the symptoms. Medication, supplements and crate rest can help in mild instances, but surgery is the only option to cure paralysis. Sometimes, this won’t be successful and euthanasia is the kindest route.

Hip Dysplasia

Even though Hip Dysplasia tends to affect medium to large dogs, it can also affect the French Bull Tzu as well. This happens when the hip bone fails to develop correctly, which leads to it moving against the corresponding socket with friction. This can cause limping, inhibited movement and pain.

As a fairly common condition, vets have a raft of treatment options to choose from. Weight loss and medication will usually be the first port of call, but physiotherapy or surgery might be required if the symptoms are severe.

Pulmonic Stenosis

One of a number of hereditary heart conditions, Pulmonic Stenosis is defined by abnormal valves that impede the flow of blood and is prevalent in Bulldogs. This can lead to weakness, lethargy, arrhythmia or heart failure.

A vet will have to perform several tests to be confident of a diagnosis, but once they have settled on Pulmonic Stenosis, they can look to treat it with medicine or an aortic valvotomy (a surgical procedure involving a balloon to widen the valves).

One of the best things about a wellness plan is the regular veterinary screening and testing of your pet — this can catch diseases at a much earlier stage.

What to Feed a French Bull Tzu

A Bulldog Shih Tzu mix needs a small breed dog food that’s designed around their specific needs — this will usually be denser when it comes to calories and nutrients to ensure they get what they need from smaller portions, as well as kibble being appropriately sized for tiny mouths.

As dogs prone to Hip Dysplasia and Pulmonic Stenosis, it’s particularly important to avoid obesity. This can be done by choosing dog food with high protein levels and fewer carbohydrates or filler ingredients.

Our partner Dog Food Advisor has compiled the best dog food for both French Bulldogs and Shih Tzus — pick any off those lists and you won’t go far wrong.