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submitted: Jun 1st 2008 | by: RebeccaSimpson | Total views: 3 | Word Count: 509 | |

Hybrid dogs, or "designer dogs," result from the mix of two or more pure breeds. Though the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize cross breeds or allow mixed breeds to participate in competition, The American Canine Hybrid Club has been formed in support of hybrids. There are now over a one hundred recognized hybrid dogs.

These hybrids, or "designer dogs" can participate in competitions sponsored by the American Canine Hybrid Club, which recognizes over 100 different mixed breeds. Hybrid dogs usually have parents with a documented ancestry.

Thus, this breed is often utilized in the hopes of retaining its non-allergy causing genetics. The Bichon Shih Tzu, or Zuchon, is one example of a Bichon hybrid. It is important to note that hybrids are not pure breeds. They are a mix of one of more breeds. Mixed breeds are usually referred to as "mutts," but hybrids are different than mutts because both parents have documented ancestry.

The two pure breeds, Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise, have positive and negative traits. The Shih Tzu is a small, sturdy dog with a double coat of long silky fur. This breed is very alert and intelligent, and also very stubborn. Shih Tzu may have health problems such as frequent eye infections, inability to withstand high temperatures, and fur that is prone to matting and tangling if not either brushed daily or given a "pet clip", which is a short haircut done only if the dog is not in competition.

Purebred animals have health problems due to their long history of in breeding, which is done to strengthen the characteristics of the breed. A Bichon Frise often suffers from a severe form of anemia and, though they are hypoallergenic, they are prone to severe allergies themselves. Shih Tzu are prone to eye allergies and other eye problems, cannot handle temperatures above 75 degrees, and require daily brushing to keep their fur from matting.

The hybrid of the Bichon and Shih Tzu has the benefit of both breeds. Bichon Shih Tzudogs have a long and documented history on both sides of their family tree. The Shih Tzu originated as far back as 1 A.D. The breed is thought to have descended from cross breeding of the Lhasa Apso and the Pekingese. The Lhasa Apso and Shih Tzu breeds were revered by Tibetan monks and honored and presented as gifts by Chinese emperors.

The Shih Tzu most likely is a cross between the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese. Though this may have occurred as much as 2000 years ago, the Shih Tzu probably began as a hybrid and is recognized as a pure breed today.

The ancestors of the Bichon Frise date back further, to 600 B.C. The Barbichon were Mediterranean dogs. Later, descendants of the breed went to sea with Spanish sailors and the name was shortened to Bichon. They migrated to Europe and the French added "Frise" to the name to reference the breed's curly fur. The Bichon Frise dog was recognized as a breed by the French Kennel Club in 1934 and the American Kennel Club followed suit in 1973.

About the Author

About the author: Rebecca Simpson is an avid lover of the Shih Tzu and owns a popular website where you'll discover how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved Shih Tzu. Among other topics at this website, you can also learn all about Shih Tzu Types plus a whole lot more.

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