The Shichon is a small designer crossbreed between a Shih Tzu and a Bichon Frise, typically weighing 9–18 pounds and standing 9–12 inches at the shoulder. Also known as the Zuchon, Shih Chon, or "Teddy Bear" dog, this fluffy companion combines the Shih Tzu's affectionate lap-dog disposition with the Bichon's cheerful playfulness and low-shedding coat. Shichons are a strong fit for apartments, families with older children, retirees, and first-time owners ready for a small dog that wants to be on you, not next to you.
Shichon at a Glance
Before going deeper, here are the essentials prospective owners ask about most:
- Other names: Zuchon, Shih Chon, Tzu Frise, Teddy Bear, Bich Tzu
- Parent breeds: Shih Tzu × Bichon Frise
- Weight: 9–18 pounds
- Height: 9–12 inches at the shoulder
- Lifespan: 12–18 years
- Coat: Long, wavy to curly, soft and fluffy
- Shedding: Low — among the lower-shedding small mixes
- Energy level: Moderate — about 45–60 minutes of activity per day
- Good with kids: Best with older, gentle children; fragile around toddlers
- Good with other pets: Yes, with early socialization
- Apartment-friendly: Yes — among the better small designer breeds for apartments
- Recognition: Not AKC-recognized; registered with the American Canine Hybrid Club and Designer Breed Registry
Appearance
The Shichon earned its "Teddy Bear" nickname for a reason — round head, button eyes, dark button nose, and a soft, fluffy coat that practically begs to be hugged. Most adults look like a slightly fluffier, sturdier Shih Tzu or a smaller, more chiseled Bichon, depending on which parent's genes dominate.
Body: Compact and sturdy with a level back. Most adults weigh 10–16 pounds and stand 9–12 inches tall. Despite the small size, Shichons are surprisingly solid — not delicate the way a toy breed feels.
Head and face: Round skull, large dark eyes, and a black button nose. The muzzle is short to medium — shorter than a Bichon's but longer than a typical Shih Tzu's, which is generally a plus for breathing.
Coat: Long, wavy to loosely curly, soft and silky. The coat is double-layered and considered low-shedding. Many people with mild dog allergies tolerate Shichons well.
Color: Wide variety — white, cream, apricot, tan, black, silver, gray, brown, brindle, and parti-color combinations. White and cream-with-tan are the most common; solid black Shichons are striking but less typical.
History
The Shichon emerged in North America in the late 1990s during the designer-dog boom, when breeders began intentionally crossing the Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise to create a small, fluffy companion with a softer, low-shedding coat. The "Teddy Bear" marketing label took off in the early 2000s and quickly became associated with this particular mix (though it's now used loosely for several small fluffy crosses, including the Malshi and Shih-Poo).
Both parent breeds have deep companion-dog histories. The Shih Tzu originated in Tibet and was developed in Imperial China as a court companion — its name translates roughly to "little lion." The Bichon Frise descends from the Mediterranean Bichon family and was a favorite of French and Spanish royalty. Both breeds were bred from the start to be human companions, and the cross inherits that lap-dog focus.
The Shichon isn't recognized by the AKC because it's a hybrid, but it's registered with the American Canine Hybrid Club, the Designer Breed Registry, and the International Designer Canine Registry.
Temperament & Personality
Shichons are sweet, sociable, and almost universally good-natured. Both parents are known for cheerful, people-oriented dispositions, and the cross rarely produces an anxious or aggressive dog.
With family: Velcro-level devoted. Shichons follow you from room to room, settle in laps, and want to be in physical contact whenever possible. They're not aloof or independent — these are companions, not working dogs.
With children: Best with older children (roughly 6+) who understand how to handle a small dog. Shichons are gentle and tolerant, but their small frame and fluffy coat invite rough handling from young kids. Always supervise toddlers around any small breed.
With strangers: Friendly after a brief alert bark. Most Shichons greet visitors enthusiastically once initial introductions are over. Shyness or aggression toward strangers usually points to under-socialization.
With other pets: Generally excellent. Both parents are non-confrontational, and Shichons typically do well with other dogs and cats when raised together. They tend to defer rather than challenge.
Alone time: Poor. Shichons are prone to separation anxiety. Households where someone is home most of the day, or where the dog has a second-pet companion, fare much better than full-time-away households.
Health
The Shichon is generally considered a healthy small mix, with hybrid vigor helping somewhat on single-breed conditions. But both parents carry hereditary issues that breeders need to screen for — "healthy hybrid" claims without testing are marketing, not medicine.
- Patellar luxation: Slipping kneecaps, common in both parent breeds. Mild cases need monitoring; severe cases need surgery.
- Hip dysplasia: Less common in small breeds than giants, but still present. Reputable breeders provide OFA hip and patella evaluations on both parents.
- Eye conditions: Cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, dry eye, and corneal dystrophy. Annual exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist help with early detection.
- Brachycephalic concerns: If the dog takes after the Shih Tzu parent with a very short muzzle, mild BOAS (breathing issues) can appear. Shichons with longer muzzles (Bichon-leaning) are healthier overall.
- Allergies: Skin and food allergies are common, often requiring lifelong diet management or veterinary dermatology.
- Bladder stones and infections: Common in Bichons. Adequate hydration and regular urinalysis help with early detection.
- Renal dysplasia: A kidney malformation seen occasionally in Shih Tzus. Genetic testing is available.
- Dental disease: Small dogs with crowded teeth in a short jaw are prime candidates for periodontal disease. Daily brushing and annual professional cleanings are non-negotiable.
- Ear infections: Floppy, hairy ears trap moisture and wax. Weekly cleaning helps.
Expected lifespan is 12–18 years, with well-bred and well-maintained dogs frequently living 14–16 years. Daily dental care, lean body weight, and routine annual exams are the biggest levers owners can pull to push toward the upper end.
Exercise
Shichons are moderate-energy dogs that do well with about 45–60 minutes of total daily activity. They're calm enough for apartment life but playful enough to enjoy real exercise.
Good exercise outlets:
- Two short walks daily: 20–30 minutes each, ideally in the morning and evening. Long enough for stimulation and bathroom breaks.
- Indoor play: Fetch in a hallway, tug, and food puzzles all count toward daily activity.
- Training sessions: Short obedience or trick sessions are mental exercise and tire a small dog quickly.
- Gentle dog playdates: Shichons enjoy small or medium friendly dogs. Skip the rough big-dog crowd.
What to avoid: extreme heat (especially for shorter-muzzled Shichons), long hikes on hot pavement, and exercising in summer midday sun. A Shichon should never be overheated to the point of heavy panting that doesn't stop within a minute or two of resting in a cool spot.
Training
Shichons are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them one of the easier small breeds to train. Both parents respond well to positive reinforcement, though both can be stubborn about house training.
What works: Short, positive, reward-based sessions of 5–10 minutes, two or three times per day. Shichons are sensitive — harsh corrections shut them down. Clicker training works particularly well.
Priority skills: House training (this is the single hardest skill for Shichons), polite greetings, leash manners, and a reliable recall. Crate training also helps significantly with separation anxiety by giving the dog a defined safe space.
Socialization: Expose puppies to as many people, dogs, sounds, surfaces, and environments as possible before 16 weeks. Under-socialized Shichons can become anxious adults, presenting as nuisance barking, hiding, or "fear aggression" toward strangers.
Common challenges: House training takes 4–6 months and sometimes longer. Small bladders, short outdoor attention spans, and a strong dislike of cold or wet weather all conspire against potty success. A strict schedule, generous rewards, and patience are required.
Grooming
Coat grooming is the single biggest commitment of Shichon ownership. The long, low-shedding double coat means dead hair stays trapped and mats easily without regular attention.
- Brushing: Three to four times per week with a pin brush followed by a slicker. Daily brushing during heavy coat-change weeks. Pay extra attention to behind the ears, under the legs, and around the rear.
- Bathing: Every 3–4 weeks with a gentle dog shampoo. Use a hypoallergenic formula if your dog has skin sensitivities.
- Professional grooming: Every 6–8 weeks for a full trim, sanitary clip, face trim, and nail trim. Most Shichon owners opt for a "puppy cut" (1–2 inches all over) for easier home maintenance.
- Face cleaning: Wipe under the eyes daily with a damp cloth. Tear staining is common in light-coated Shichons.
- Ear cleaning: Weekly. Floppy ears with hair in the canal trap moisture and wax. Pluck or trim ear hair as needed.
- Nail trimming: Every 3–4 weeks.
- Dental care: Brush daily with dog-safe toothpaste. Annual professional cleanings under anesthesia are needed for most small breeds.
If you can't commit to professional grooming every 6–8 weeks plus regular at-home brushing, this isn't the right breed for you. Neglected Shichon coats mat to the skin within weeks and often have to be shaved down entirely — uncomfortable for the dog and expensive at the groomer.
Nutrition
Feed a high-quality small-breed formula appropriate to life stage. Most adult Shichons eat 1/2 to 1 cup of dry food per day, split into two meals. Free-feeding tends to backfire — Shichons are prone to weight gain, which exacerbates joint issues and shortens lifespan.
If your Shichon has skin or digestive issues (both common from the Bichon side), an elimination diet or veterinary hypoallergenic formula can help. Common triggers include chicken, beef, dairy, and grains.
Keep this dog lean. You should be able to feel ribs without pressing hard and see a clear waist tuck behind the ribcage from above. Overweight Shichons suffer accelerated patellar luxation and significantly reduced quality of life.
Is the Shichon Right for You?
The Shichon is a great fit if you:
- Live in an apartment, condo, or small home
- Want a low-shedding dog that may be tolerated by mild allergy sufferers
- Are home most of the day or have flexibility for midday check-ins
- Can commit to professional grooming every 6–8 weeks and regular at-home brushing
- Want a cuddly companion rather than an active working dog
- Are a first-time dog owner or returning owner looking for an easy companion
- Have older children (6+) or no children
This breed is probably not for you if:
- You have toddlers or very young children
- You're away from home 10+ hours a day with no relief
- You can't budget for professional grooming every 6–8 weeks
- You want a hiking, running, or outdoor adventure partner
- You have severe dog allergies (no dog is truly hypoallergenic)
- You want a low-maintenance, set-it-and-forget-it dog
Finding a Shichon
The Shichon's popularity has attracted commercial breeders and puppy mills. Quality varies dramatically across sellers, so vetting matters.
Reputable breeders should provide health clearances on both parents — at minimum, OFA hip and patella evaluations, eye CERF/OFA results, and ideally genetic panels covering renal dysplasia and other Shih Tzu / Bichon hereditary conditions. The breeder should let you visit, meet at least the mother, and ask you as many questions as you ask them. Avoid breeders who focus on the most extreme flat-faced look — longer muzzles produce healthier dogs.
Red flags: Multiple litters available immediately. No health testing on parents. Both parents have severely narrowed nostrils or noisy breathing. Puppies sold under 8 weeks old. Pet-store availability — usually a puppy mill source. Prices much under $1,000 (corners cut on screening). Breeders unwilling to show parents in person or via video. Promises of "100% hypoallergenic" or "no health problems" (both are unrealistic).
Rescue options: Bichon Frise Club of America rescue and Shih Tzu rescues regularly take in mixes. Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet list Shichon-type dogs often. Adult dogs from rescue typically cost $200–$500 and skip the destructive puppy phase.
Cost of Ownership
Initial cost:
- Reputable breeder puppy: $1,000–$2,500
- Rescue or shelter: $200–$500
- Initial setup (crate, bed, leash, supplies, vet visits): $400–$700
Annual ongoing costs (adult dog):
- Food: $300–$500 per year
- Professional grooming: $400–$800 (every 6–8 weeks)
- Routine veterinary care: $300–$600
- Pet insurance: $300–$600
- Preventives (flea, tick, heartworm): $200–$400
- Dental care: $200–$500 (annual cleaning + at-home brushing)
- Supplies and treats: $150–$300
Total annual cost typically runs $1,800–$3,500 — with grooming being the biggest single ongoing expense after food. Budget for one or two major veterinary events over the dog's lifetime ($1,500–$4,000), especially for dental extractions, patellar surgery, or cataract surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a Shichon and a Zuchon?
Nothing — they're the same dog. Shichon, Zuchon, Shih Chon, Tzu Frise, and "Teddy Bear" are all common names for the Shih Tzu × Bichon Frise cross. Different breeders prefer different names, but the dog is the same.
How big do Shichons get?
Adult Shichons typically weigh 9–18 pounds and stand 9–12 inches tall at the shoulder. Most fall in the 10–15 pound range. Size depends on which parent dominated and the Shichon's generation (F1, F1B, etc.).
Are Shichons hypoallergenic?
No dog is fully hypoallergenic, but Shichons are considered one of the more allergy-friendly small breeds because both parents have low-shedding coats. People with mild to moderate dog allergies often tolerate them well; severe allergy sufferers should spend several hours with a specific Shichon before committing.
Are Shichons good with kids?
They're best with older, gentle children (typically 6+). Shichons are sweet and tolerant, but their small frame and fluffy coat invite rough handling from toddlers. Always supervise interactions between small children and small dogs to prevent accidental injury.
How long do Shichons live?
Shichons typically live 12–18 years, with most dogs reaching 14–16 years. Lean body weight, daily dental care, professional grooming, and routine annual exams are the biggest levers owners can pull to push toward the upper end of that range.
How much does a Shichon cost?
Expect $1,000–$2,500 from a reputable breeder, or $200–$500 through rescue. Annual ongoing costs run $1,800–$3,500 including food, grooming, vet care, insurance, and supplies. Grooming is the biggest single annual expense after food.
Can Shichons be left alone?
Not for long. Shichons are prone to separation anxiety. Most adult dogs handle 4–6 hours alone if well-exercised and crate-trained, but daily 8–10 hour absences usually lead to nuisance barking, destructive chewing, or depression. A dog walker, daycare, or a second pet companion helps.
Are Shichons easy to train?
Yes, with one big asterisk. Shichons are intelligent and eager to please for most obedience cues and tricks, but house training is notoriously slow — often 4–6 months or longer. A strict schedule, generous rewards, and patience are required. Otherwise, positive-reinforcement methods produce a polite, well-mannered companion.
If the Shichon isn't quite the right fit, you might also consider the Shih-Poo for a similar size with a Poodle coat, the Malshi for another Shih Tzu cross with a Maltese parent, the Bichpoo for another low-shedding Bichon cross, the Maltipoo for a similar Teddy Bear look in a smaller package, or the pure Shih Tzu if you want a more predictable companion line.
