Saussie Breed Information
The Auss-Tzu, also known as the Saussie, is a hybrid dog breed resulting from the cross between a Mini Australian Shepherd and a Shih Tzu. This breed combines the intelligence and energy of the Australian Shepherd with the affectionate and friendly nature of the Shih Tzu. The Auss-Tzu is known for its charming personality, making it an excellent companion for families and individuals alike. These dogs are typically small to medium-sized, sporting a variety of coat colors and patterns. They thrive in active households where they can participate in various activities and enjoy regular mental stimulation.
BREED TYPE / MIX
Hybrid / Shih Tzu crossed with a Mini Aussie
ENERGY
Moderate
SHEDDING
Minimal
TRAINING
Responsive
TEMPERAMENT
Friendly, Playful, Loyal
ADULT WEIGHT
10-20 lbs
ADULT HEIGHT
10-15 inches
LIFE SPAN
12-15 yrs.
Characteristics
- Intelligent: Inheriting the sharp intellect of the Australian Shepherd, Auss-Tzus are quick learners and thrive on mental challenges.
- Affectionate: With the loving nature of the Shih Tzu, these dogs form strong bonds with their families and enjoy cuddling.
- Energetic: They possess high energy levels, requiring regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
- Alert: Auss-Tzus are vigilant and make excellent watchdogs, often alerting their owners to any unusual activity.
- Playful: This breed loves to play, whether it's a game of fetch or interactive toys, making them great companions for children.
- Adaptable: Auss-Tzus can adjust well to different living environments, whether in an apartment or a house with a yard.
- Social: They enjoy the company of people and other pets, making them well-suited for households with multiple animals.
Appearance
The Auss-Tzu exhibits a unique and charming appearance that draws from both the Australian Shepherd and the Shih Tzu. These dogs typically have a small to medium build, reflecting the Shih Tzu's compact size while sometimes showcasing the more athletic frame of the Australian Shepherd. Their weight usually ranges between 10 to 40 pounds, and their height can vary from 10 to 18 inches at the shoulder.
One of the most striking features of the Auss-Tzu is its coat, which can come in a variety of colors and patterns, including merle, brindle, black, white, and combinations thereof. The texture of their fur can also vary, often being either straight or slightly wavy, and it tends to be dense and soft to the touch. Their expressive eyes, which can be brown or blue, add to their endearing look, while their ears may be floppy like the Shih Tzu's or more erect like the Australian Shepherd's.
Temperament
The Auss-Tzu inherits a delightful blend of temperamental traits from both its parent breeds. These dogs are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them great companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. They thrive on human interaction and are happiest when they are around their loved ones, often displaying a loyal and protective demeanor.
In addition to their affectionate disposition, Auss-Tzus are also known for their intelligence and eagerness to please. This combination makes them highly trainable and responsive to commands. However, their sharp minds also require constant mental stimulation to prevent boredom and the development of destructive behaviors. Engaging them in interactive games, puzzle toys, and regular training sessions can keep their minds active and satisfied.
Care
Grooming
Grooming the Auss-Tzu requires regular attention to maintain their coat's health and appearance. Depending on the type of coat they inherit, which can range from straight and silky to wavy and dense, they may need brushing several times a week to prevent matting and tangling. Regular grooming not only keeps their fur looking its best but also helps reduce shedding and maintain skin health.
In addition to coat care, the Auss-Tzu's grooming routine should include regular bathing, nail trimming, and dental care. Their ears should also be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infections, especially if they have floppy ears that can trap moisture and debris. Professional grooming every few months can help manage their coat length and keep them looking neat.
Exercise Needs
The Auss-Tzu is an energetic breed that requires regular physical activity to stay healthy and happy. A mix of the lively Australian Shepherd and the playful Shih Tzu, these dogs thrive on daily exercise and mental stimulation. They enjoy activities such as brisk walks, runs, and playtime in a secure yard. Engaging in interactive games like fetch or agility training can help keep their minds sharp and bodies fit.
In addition to physical exercise, Auss-Tzus benefit from mental challenges. Puzzle toys, obedience training, and socialization with other dogs are excellent ways to provide the necessary mental stimulation. Without adequate exercise and engagement, they can become bored and potentially develop behavioral issues. Therefore, an active lifestyle with plenty of opportunities for movement and play is crucial for maintaining the overall well-being of the Auss-Tzu.
Health
The Auss-Tzu benefits from hybrid vigor, often resulting in a healthier dog compared to its purebred parents. Generally, they are robust and healthy, but there are a few health issues to watch for. Auss-Tzus can be prone to allergies, which may cause skin irritations and require dietary adjustments or medication. Their floppy ears make them susceptible to ear infections, necessitating regular ear cleaning to prevent buildup of moisture and debris. Additionally, dental health is crucial for Auss-Tzus, as they can be prone to dental issues. Regular brushing and dental check-ups can help maintain their oral health.
Lifespan
The Auss-Tzu, benefiting from the hybrid vigor typical of mixed breeds, often enjoys a long and healthy life. On average, these dogs have a lifespan ranging from 12 to 15 years, provided they receive proper care, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary check-ups. Their longevity is influenced by several factors, including genetics, overall health, and lifestyle.
To ensure a long, healthy life for your Auss-Tzu, it's important to monitor their health through routine vet visits, maintain an active lifestyle, and provide a high-quality diet. Early detection of any potential health issues can significantly contribute to their well-being and longevity.
Training
Training an Auss-Tzu is a rewarding experience due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. These dogs respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and playtime. Consistency and patience are key, as their sharp minds can quickly pick up on commands and routines. Early socialization is crucial to help them become well-adjusted adults, comfortable with various people, animals, and environments.
Obedience training should start from a young age to instill good manners and prevent undesirable behaviors. Interactive training sessions that challenge their minds and bodies will keep them engaged and prevent boredom. Given their energetic nature, incorporating physical activities into training, such as agility courses or fetch, can make the process enjoyable for both you and your Auss-Tzu.
History
The Auss-Tzu is a relatively new hybrid breed, resulting from the intentional crossbreeding of the Australian Shepherd and the Shih Tzu. This mix was likely developed to combine the best traits of both parent breeds, aiming for a dog that is intelligent, affectionate, and adaptable. While the exact origins of the Auss-Tzu are not well-documented, the breed has gained popularity over the past couple of decades as more people seek designer dogs with specific characteristics.
The Australian Shepherd, one of the parent breeds, has a history rooted in herding and working alongside ranchers in the United States, despite its name suggesting Australian origins. The Shih Tzu, on the other hand, has ancient roots in China, where it was bred to be a companion dog for royalty. The combination of these two breeds brings together the hardworking and intelligent nature of the Australian Shepherd with the Shih Tzu's charming and affectionate personality, resulting in the delightful and versatile Auss-Tzu.