The Cock-A-Tzu (Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzu) is becoming more popular every year! This article covers the most important facts there is to know about this adorable mix.
Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzu: Key Info
Before getting into the bulk of the article, let’s run through some of the most key statistics and information that future owners will want to know immediately.
| Height | 11-14 Inches |
| Weight | 25-35 Pounds (11-16 kg) |
| Coat colors | White, Brown, Black, Black & White, Gold, Mixed |
| Temperament | Kind, gentle, friendly & playful, and very loyal |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Exercise requirements | Two 20-30 minute walks per day |
| Suitable for | First-time dog owners and even families |
Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzu Origins
The Shih Tzu, coming from Ancient Tibet, and the Cocker Spaniel, coming from Spain in the 14th century make up the amazing Cock-A-Tzu.
When did the Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzus mix first start?
The exact date the Cock-A-Tzu was developed is unknown, but it’s very likely to have happened during the designer dog breed boom in the 1980s.
Fun fact: The Cock-A-Tzu nearly didn’t happen. In fact, the entire Shih Tzu breed population went down to only 14 individuals (7 males and 7 females) before making a remarkable recovery bringing their numbers back up.
Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzu Size & Growth
Cock-A-Tzus are small dogs with an average height of 11-14 Inches (27-35cm) and an average weight of 25-35 Pounds (11-16kg).
Males are usually larger than females.
There’s a higher chance of a larger Cock-A-Tzu offspring if its a female cocker spaniel giving birth.
This mix usually reaches their full height by 10 months and their full weight by 12 months.
What’s The Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzu Really Like?
Cock-A-Tzu owners say their beautiful little friends to be one of the friendliest, smartest and loyal dogs they know of.
Both the Cocker Spaniel and Shih Tzu have overlapping temperaments, resulting in a refined temperament that most dog owners dream of.
- Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzu Mixes are active, playful, happy-go-lucky, gentle, affectionate, and intelligent.
Still, owners should be aware that this breed has the potential to either be a couch potato, or the complete opposite!
While cocker spaniels have never-ending energy, shih tzus are much more relaxed. So hyperactivity can vary in the Cock-A-Tzu.
Who Are Cock-A-Tzus Best Suited For?
Cock-A-Tzus are suitable for pretty much everyone!
From first time dog owners, families with kids, or seniors, this mix is relatively easy to raise.
Of course, it goes without saying that a basic level of care will be needed, and that will require some time and attention out of the owner’s day.
Why Cock-A-Tzus are great for everyone:
- Friendly & kind
- Easy to train (high sense of appeasement)
- Relatively low exercise requirement demands
- Physically small and manageable
- Get on well with most other dogs
- Easy-going (in most cases)
Basic Needs of a Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzu Mix
Let’s run through the basic daily needs of a Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzu Mix. If an owner can meet these requirements then this breed will be a perfect fit.
| Exercise | 30-40 minutes per day (walking is fine) |
| Diet | High quality kibble prioritizing whole & fresh ingredients |
| Training | 20-30 minutes of basic command training per day |
| Grooming | 5-10 minute daily brushing, bathing once a month |
| Attention | 20-30 minutes quality time |
| Time alone | Less than 5 hours at a time |
If these basic, but fundamental needs are taken care of, then a Cock-A-Tzu will be content, happy, and well-behaved.
Important: Cocker Spaniels and Shih Tzus alike are not breeds that tolerate being left alone for the whole day, so this is definitely something future owners must keep in mind.
Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzu Price
In general, Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzu mixes range from $350-$850.
Noteworthy: The price of Cock-A-Tzus vary depending on bloodline, breeder, where you are purchasing from, and the current supply/demand.
Grooming: Brushing, Bathing & Shedding Info
Yes, Cock-A-Tzus do shed, but it is low-moderate and easily managed with just 5-10 minutes of daily brushing.
Cock-A-Tzus certainly do not shed as much as many other breeds, or even Cocker Spaniels for that matter.
Still, brushing should be given daily to keep on top of their shedding.
This mix is fairly hygienic and doesn’t produce that pungent doggy odor we are all aware of. Bathing (with a natural dog shampoo) is best done once every 1-2 months. And remember to never overbathe!
Exercise Requirements & Energy Levels
Although Cocker Spaniels are abundant in energy and often hyper, Shih Tzus are much calmer.
- This means Cock-A-Tzus are generally balanced with their energy levels, and relatively easy to exercise.
Two 15-20 minute walks per day, once in the morning and again in the evening, will be more than enough to satisfy their exercise needs.
If a Cock-A-Tzu adopts the energy levels of a Cocker Spaniel (which is possible) then exercise requirements will be more like 60 minutes per day. Something to keep in mind.
Are Cock-A-Tzus Prone to Health Issues?
Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzus mixes are a generally healthy crossbreed, but they are still prone to a few common health conditions.
Cock-A-Tzus have an average lifespan on 12-15 years.
| Common issues | More serious issues |
|---|---|
| Allergies | Hip dysplacia |
| Ear infections | Cataracts |
| Weight issues | Cancers |
| Von Willebrand’s Disease | |
| Brachycephalic Breathing Issues |
Future owners should not be put off by potential health issues in this mix.
Dealing with such issues is always a part of being a dog owner, and most of the time Cock-A-Tzus go onto live long trouble-free lives. 😊
Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzus like any dog will need yearly or bi-yearly health check ups with a qualified veterinarian.
In general, if owners keep up with health check ups, provide a healthy diet and lifestyle, most health issues can be avoided.
Summary of Cocker Spaniel Shih Tzu Mix
- Great temperament suitable for everyone
- Easy to train and smart
- Generally well-behaved and obedient
- Small and light
- Low-moderate shedding with daily brushing required
- 30-40 minutes of total exercise required for the day
- Are not tolerable of spending more than 5 hours alone
- Prices range from $350-$850
- Are not always available to purchase
- Generally healthy with a generous life expectancy of 12-15 years
- Absolutely adorable! ✔️🐶😊
