The ShiChi is a popular hybrid that developed in the United States in recent years. However, there is not a lot of information available regarding the origins or breed programs for the ShiChi despite its popularity as a hybrid. Additionally, the ShiChi can vary in size, general appearance, and disposition, making it difficult to develop a breed standard at this time. Owners who wish to understand their ShiChi better or those interesting in adopting this popular hybrid may review the respective histories of both parent breeds for additional insight. The Chihuahua is a dog of American antiquity. The Chihuahua developed in the region now known as Mexico and is depicted in historical accounts reaching as back as far as the 9th Century when the small companion and vermin hunter went by the name Techichi. The Techichi was highly regarded in the Aztec culture and Toltec culture before it, and upon death, the dogs were often buried alongside their masters. The Techichi were independent-minded yet loyal companions and vermin hunters. Unfortunately, the Techichi faded into obscurity during the Spanish conquest of the Americas. However, the fiercely independent and self-sufficient Techichi survived on its own and was rediscovered in the Mexican state of Chihuahua during the 1800s, where the modern-day dog draws its name. Shortly after reemerging as the Chihuahua, the breed moved into the United States and was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904. Today, the Chihuahua enjoys high ranking popularity in the U.S. as a companion and Toy breed. The Shih Tzu breed is one of the world's oldest dogs still in existence with archaeological evidence dating back 10,000 years ago in China. The exact origins of the Shih Tzu are shrouded in mystery as the little companion may have developed in Tibet or China. Regardless of its ancient history, the Shih Tzu was a treasured companion in the region though kept a secret. By the late 1800s, the Shih Tzu's popularity in the Chinese Imperium grew due to a fondness shared by the Empress. Upon the Empresses death in 1908, several noble families competed to produce the best quality Shih Tzus and eventually, the small dog left China for the West. By the 1960s, the Shih Tzu was bred and recognized int he United States. The American Kennel Club began accepting registration for the Shih Tzu in 1969. Today, this Toy group companion enjoys high ranking popularity.
