4-13 lbs
7-10"
United States
The Shiranian is a cute mix between a Pomerian and a Shih Tzu. They are small, lively, and friendly dogs. These are companion dogs who love being with their families and are great with children and seniors. The downside is that the Shiranian tends to suffer from separation anxiety, so if you cannot be home a fair amount of the time then you may want to consider another hybrid. Nonetheless, this is a playful, cheerful, intelligent dog that is a great addition to a caring family. Like both of its parent breeds, the Shiranian has long, silky fur that can be straight or wavy. This hybrid comes in several colors, such as red, sable, chocolate, black, gold, orange, and brindle.
There is little information documented about the Shiranian’s history. This hybrid originated in the United States from the crossing of a Shih Tzu and Pomeranian. The Shih Tzu is one of the oldest dog breeds. It is said that the Shih Tzu may have originated from crossing the Lhasa Apso with the Pekingese. It is believed that the Shih Tzu was developed by Tibetan Monks who gave some of these dogs to the Chinese royalty as a gift. The Shih Tzu is depicted in paintings, art, and writings from China’s Tang Dynasty between 1368 and 1644. In 1861, the breed became highly popular in the Imperial court after the Dalai Lama gave the Empress Tzu Hsi two Shih Tzus. According to general beliefs, these dogs had their own palace. After the empress’ death, many royal families started breeding these dogs. The breed was later taken to England, to Ireland, and eventually to the United States. The Shih Tzu was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969. The Pomeranian comes from the province of Pomerania region in Central Europe. In its early years, the dogs weighed up to 30 pounds and had wedge-shaped heads, pointed ears and abundant fur. They originated from the Spitz breeds, such as the Norwegian Elkhound, the Schipperke, the American Eskimo, the German Spitz, and the Samoyed. It is said that Martin Luther, Michelangelo, Isaac Newton, and Mozart had Pomeranians. In 1761, this breed became popular in England’s royal circles after the Princess Sophie Charlotte brought her two Pomeranians with her when she married the future King George III. Queen Victoria became also very fond of this breed when she saw a 12 pound Pomeranian in Italy in 1888. Her passion for this breed, in particular the smaller ones, encouraged the breeding of smaller Pomeranians. This breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1888.
The Shiranian is a small dog that weighs between 4 and 16 pounds, the high end of the scale being bigger than a Pomeranian of today. This sweet canine possesses medium to long double-coated fur as does both of its parent breeds. Their fur is silky and generally straight, but it can sometimes be wavy like the Pomeranian. They come in a variety of colors such as black, red, chocolate, brindle, sable, orange, and multi-color. These dogs have short muzzles, with big black or brown eyes and floppy ears. They have a small black nose and generally, their tail curls over their back. Although they are small dogs, they have a somewhat sturdy body with strong legs and they are between 7 to 10 inches height.
Both of the parent-breeds, the Shih Tzu and the Pomeranian, have double-coated long and abundant fur. The Shiranian inherits these characteristics; this hybrid has medium to long silky fur that is usually straight but when the Pomeranian’s influence is stronger, their hair may be more wavy in texture. They shed often, so it is recommended to brush them daily. A pin brush or a wide comb is suggested. Small dogs are prone to skin sensitivities, so blow drying is not recommended for the Shiranian; it is best to towel dry them. Occasional trimming of the fur around the eyes and other areas of the body, such as the feet, is required. Check the nails for cracks and tears, as well as length, on a bi-weekly basis. Brush the teeth daily if you can; this hybrid is prone to dental decay.
The Shiranian is very adaptable and can get along just fine in an apartment, although they profit from having a backyard in which to explore in throughout the day. Daily visits to a park and walks around the neighborhood are most welcomed. Despite being a small, indoor-type dog, this hybrid does need social interaction, fresh air and a chance to work his brain as well as his body. Providing plenty of outlets for his energy may help somewhat in regards to the anxiety he experiences when left alone.. A few 20 minute walks per day, an obedience class, a game of fetch or an the opportunity to play with an interesting toy are great activities your Shiranian will enjoy.
