Jatzu Dog Breed

The Japanese Chin and Shih Tzu mix, as a crossbreed, is not an official member of any breed group--but both the Chin and the Shih Tzu parent breeds are members of the Toy group in the AKC and other clubs, so these hybrids would fit nicely in that category. Neither does any info exist about Jatzu dogs' specific origin; while a Japanese Chin mixed with Shih Tzu has probably existed naturally for a long time, no breeder or breed club has claimed its creation. The Shih Tzu and Japanese Chin mix likely gained popularity during the designer dog "explosion" in North America in the late 20th century. Whatever the case, these affectionate, loyal little dogs make terrific companion pets, and are especially good for seniors or for those living in apartments.

A few facts about Jatzu mixes: they're toy-sized, averaging nine inches at the shoulders in height and nine pounds in weight; they have long, silky coats that don't shed too much; and they're sensitive and will suffer separation anxiety if left alone.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Jatzu:

Some important Jatzu information: these hybrids are the offspring of two breeds with long histories as companion dogs, so the Jatzu will obviously be a good companion pet as well. Physically, the Jatzu is pretty tiny: height at the shoulders is 7-11 inches, and weight is 7-11 pounds. The Jatzu's long, silky coat comes in a wide variety of colors, usually in multi-colored patterns, including black, red, sable, blue, gold, and liver, usually over a white background.

In terms of personality, the Jatzu is friendly, energetic, and pretty needy. They'll be affectionate with family members and will normally socialize well with kids and other pets--but they sometimes develop Small Dog syndrome (in which they're overly fussy and selfish) without early training and socialization. These dogs have a lot of willingness to please, though, so they normally respond well to training; they're also loyal and alert, and have pretty good watchdog skills.

And while the toy-sized Jatzu obviously won't win any strength competitions, the dog will be highly energetic. Consistent exercise--a walk or two plus a good period of play--is recommended on a daily basis.

The Japanese Chin x Shih Tzu mix, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits of its parent breeds), is very healthy. Even so, these hybrids can suffer ailments common to the parent breeds including hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, various allergies, and assorted eye issues (the most serious of which are cataracts and Progressive Retinal Atrophy, or PRA). Toy-sized breeds like this one are also prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can have their own veterinarians do the screenings.

Life expectancy for the Jatzu is 10-15 years.