Ultimate BoShih Guide: Traits, Care, Training & Health Tips

Quick take: The BoShih is a cross between a Boston Terrier and a Shih Tzu. Expect a small, sturdy dog of 10–16 inches and 10–20 pounds with a cheerful, people-loving personality and a coat that can be anything from short and sleek to long and silky. BoShihs are moderate-energy companions that fit well in apartments and family homes. Both parents are short-nosed breeds, so heat safety, breathing, and eye care deserve special attention.

Want to explore more mixes? Visit the full hub here: Top 50 Mixed Dog Breeds in America.

1. Introduction to the Breed

The BoShih, sometimes called the Boston Shih Tzu or Bo-Tzu, brings together two of America’s favorite companion breeds. The Boston Terrier, known as “the American Gentleman,” contributes a lively, playful spirit and a tuxedo-style coat. The Shih Tzu, bred for centuries as a palace companion, contributes a gentle, affectionate nature and a love of laps. The result is a small dog that is friendly, funny, and happiest when it is close to its people.

BoShihs are true companion dogs. They are not built for long runs or guard work. Their job is to keep you company, and they take that job seriously. Most follow their owners from room to room, greet visitors with wagging enthusiasm, and settle happily into the couch after a short walk and a play session.

As with any mix, individual dogs vary. A BoShih that leans toward the Boston side may have a short, smooth coat, more bounce, and a slightly longer muzzle. One that leans toward the Shih Tzu may have a longer, flowing coat, a flatter face, and a calmer attitude. Reading about both parents helps you plan. See our Boston Terrier guide and Shih Tzu guide.

2. History of the Breed

The Boston Terrier is one of the few breeds developed in the United States. It began in 1870s Boston, where crosses between English Bulldogs and white English Terriers eventually produced a smaller, friendlier companion. The American Kennel Club recognized the Boston Terrier in 1893, and it has been a beloved family dog ever since.

The Shih Tzu has a much older story. Its ancestors were prized by Tibetan monasteries and Chinese imperial courts, where small, lion-like dogs were kept as treasured companions. The breed nearly vanished in the early 20th century, and today’s Shih Tzus descend from a small number of dogs that were carefully preserved. The AKC recognized the breed in 1969.

The BoShih likely appeared during the designer-dog wave of the 1990s and 2000s, when breeders began crossing popular companion breeds to create new small family dogs. The BoShih is not recognized by the AKC, though some hybrid and designer-dog registries list it. Most BoShihs today are first-generation crosses, which is one reason looks and coats vary so much from dog to dog.

3. Physical Characteristics

Typical Size and Weight

Most BoShihs stand 10–16 inches at the shoulder and weigh 10–20 pounds. They are compact and sturdy rather than delicate, with a broad chest and solid little frame. Most reach adult size by about 10–12 months.

Coat and Color

The coat is the biggest wild card. Some BoShihs have the short, smooth coat of a Boston Terrier, which sheds lightly and needs little care. Others inherit the Shih Tzu’s long, silky coat, which sheds very little but grows continuously and needs regular brushing and trims. Many land in between, with a medium-length, soft coat. Common colors include black and white, brindle and white, brown, gold, and cream, often with the classic Boston-style white blaze on the face and chest.

Distinctive Features

Expect a rounded head, large dark eyes, a short muzzle, and ears that may stand upright like a Boston’s or fold over like a Shih Tzu’s. Many BoShihs have an underbite. Their big, expressive eyes are a big part of their charm, but they are also more exposed than the eyes of longer-nosed breeds, so daily eye checks are part of the routine.

Grooming Pick

Untangler Small Pet Brush

A compact brush sized for small dogs and small hands. It works through medium and longer BoShih coats without a lot of pulling, which keeps grooming sessions calm. Made in the USA.

Shop the Small Pet Brush

4. Personality Traits

BoShihs are affectionate, social, and eager to be part of the family. They usually love everyone they meet, including visitors, delivery drivers, and the neighbor’s kids. They are playful in short bursts and then content to snuggle, which makes them a good match for people who want a companion that is fun but not exhausting.

The Boston side brings humor and a bit of mischief. Expect zoomies, toy tossing, and the occasional stubborn moment when your BoShih would rather do something else. The Shih Tzu side brings a calm, gentle sweetness and a deep attachment to its people. Together, they make a dog that is easy to love and usually easy to live with.

BoShihs are generally good with children who know how to be gentle. Their sturdy build handles normal play better than many toy breeds, but they can still be hurt if dropped or handled roughly. Most BoShihs get along well with other dogs and cats, especially when raised with them. They are not typically aggressive, but they can be vocal when someone comes to the door.

Because they bond so closely, BoShihs do not like being left alone for long periods. Some develop separation anxiety, which can show up as barking, whining, or chewing when you leave. Building alone-time slowly from puppyhood helps a great deal. If you like this sweet, companion-first personality, you may also enjoy our guides to the Maltipoo and the Yorkipoo.

5. Care Requirements

Exercise Needs

Plan on 30–45 minutes of activity a day, split into two or three short walks and a few indoor play sessions. BoShihs enjoy a stroll around the neighborhood, a game of fetch down the hallway, and a romp in a fenced yard. They are not built for jogging or long hikes, and their short noses make them sensitive to heat and overexertion.

Walk early in the morning or in the evening during warm months, carry water, and stop at the first sign of heavy panting or noisy breathing. Use a well-fitted harness instead of a neck collar for walks. A harness takes pressure off the throat and airway, which is especially important for short-nosed dogs.

Mental Stimulation

BoShihs are smart and enjoy learning, though they are not as intense as working breeds. Short training sessions, simple food puzzles, and “find the treat” games are plenty to keep their minds busy. Teaching a new trick every week is a fun way to bond and helps prevent boredom barking.

Grooming

Grooming depends on the coat. A short, Boston-type coat needs only a weekly brushing and an occasional bath. A longer, Shih Tzu-type coat needs brushing several times a week, ideally daily, plus a trim every six to eight weeks. Many owners keep longer-coated BoShihs in a short “puppy cut” to make care easier. Brush in sections, then comb through to the skin to catch small tangles before they mat.

Face care is part of grooming for this mix. Wipe around the eyes daily with a soft, damp cloth to remove tear staining and debris, and keep hair around the eyes trimmed so it does not poke them. Clean any facial wrinkles and keep them dry. Check ears weekly, trim nails every two to three weeks, and brush teeth several times a week, because small, short-muzzled dogs often have crowded teeth.

Grooming Pick

Professional Groomer Comb

The comb groomers use for the final check. Run it from skin to tip after brushing, and wherever it catches, you have found a tangle to work out before it mats. Made in the USA.

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Diet & Sleeping Habits

Feed a high-quality small-breed food portioned for your dog’s age and activity level. BoShihs love food and can gain weight easily, and extra pounds make breathing and joint problems worse. Measure meals, limit table scraps, and count treats as part of the daily total. A shallow or wide bowl can be easier for short-muzzled dogs to eat from.

BoShihs are champion nappers and often sleep 12–14 hours a day. They love soft, enclosed beds where they can curl up and rest their heads. Keep the bed in a cool spot away from heaters in winter and out of direct sun in summer, since short-nosed dogs struggle to cool themselves.

Bed Pick

Furvana™ Round Bolstered Bed

A round bed with a raised bolster all the way around, perfect for a small dog that likes to curl up and rest its chin on the edge. Made in the USA by American Dog.

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6. Health and Lifespan

BoShihs often live 12–15 years. Because both parent breeds are brachycephalic, or short-faced, the mix shares some of the same health concerns. Talk to your vet early about these, and ask breeders about the parents’ health:

• Brachycephalic airway syndrome. Narrow nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and other airway differences can make breathing harder. Watch for loud snoring, noisy breathing, gagging, or tiring quickly. Keep your dog lean, use a harness, and ask your vet whether your dog would benefit from an airway evaluation.
• Heat sensitivity. Short-nosed dogs cannot cool themselves as well as other dogs. Avoid exercise in hot or humid weather, provide shade and water, and never leave your BoShih in a parked car.
• Eye problems. Prominent eyes are prone to corneal ulcers, dry eye, and injuries. Cherry eye and cataracts can also occur. See your vet promptly if you notice squinting, redness, cloudiness, or pawing at the eye.
• Patellar luxation. A kneecap that slips out of place, common in small breeds. Skipping or briefly holding up a back leg is a common sign.
• Allergies and skin issues. Itching, paw licking, and ear infections can signal allergies. Keep folds clean and dry and work with your vet on the cause.
• Dental disease. Crowded teeth in a short jaw trap plaque. Regular brushing and dental checkups are important.

Many of these risks can be reduced with simple habits: keep your BoShih at a healthy weight, choose cool times of day for exercise, check eyes daily, and keep up with yearly exams. Pet insurance is worth considering for short-nosed breeds.

7. Training and Socialization

BoShihs want to please, but they also have a stubborn streak, especially the Boston-leaning ones. Positive reinforcement works best: small treats, praise, and play, delivered in short, upbeat sessions. Harsh corrections tend to make sensitive small dogs shut down or dig in their heels.

Start with the basics: name recognition, sit, down, stay, come, and walking nicely on a harness. House training can take longer with small breeds, so take your puppy outside often, especially after meals, naps, and play, and reward every success right away. Crate training helps with both house training and settling when you leave.

• Socialize early. Between 8 and 16 weeks, introduce your puppy to new people, friendly dogs, car rides, grooming tools, and everyday sounds in a calm, positive way.
• Practice alone time. Leave your puppy for short periods with a safe chew or puzzle, then gradually increase the time. This helps prevent separation anxiety.
• Make grooming fun. Handle paws, ears, and face daily and pair it with treats. A BoShih that enjoys being handled is much easier to groom for life.
• Teach a quiet cue. Reward calm behavior at the door so barking does not become a habit.

Keep training sessions short in warm weather, and give your BoShih breaks to cool down and catch its breath. A tired, overheated short-nosed dog cannot learn well and may be at risk.

8. Ideal Home Environment

BoShihs adapt well to apartments, condos, and houses. Their small size and moderate energy make them good city dogs, and they do not need a big yard. What they do need is company. They are happiest in homes where someone is around for much of the day, such as retirees, remote workers, or families with flexible schedules.

A climate-controlled home is important. Air conditioning in summer is a real health need for short-nosed dogs, not a luxury. In cold weather, a sweater or coat can help shorter-coated BoShihs stay comfortable on walks.

BoShihs are a good fit for first-time owners, seniors, and families with gentle children. They are a weaker fit for very active owners who want a running or hiking partner, or for households where the dog would be alone all day.

9. Best Toys & Gear for a BoShih

Choose small, soft-to-medium toys sized for a short-muzzled mouth. BoShihs enjoy gentle tug, short fetch games, and carrying plush toys around the house. Supervise play and rotate toys to keep them interesting.

Toy Pick

LibertyPaw Plush Fire Hydrant

A soft, small-dog-sized plush made for carrying, gentle tug, and cuddling. A perfect fit for a BoShih’s play style. Made in the USA.

Shop the Plush Hydrant

Want more USA-made options? Browse the full collection: LibertyPaw American-Made Pet Toys

10. Adoption and Breeder Tips

Because both parent breeds are short-faced, choosing a responsible breeder matters. A good breeder selects parents with open nostrils and good breathing, health-tests for eye and knee problems, and can tell you honestly how the parents handle exercise and warm weather. They let you meet the mother, raise puppies in the home, begin socialization early, and will take a dog back at any age.

Walk away from breeders who brag about extremely flat faces, cannot share health information, always have puppies available, or sell puppies younger than eight weeks. Popular small mixes are often targeted by puppy mills, so visit in person whenever possible.

Adoption is a wonderful option too. BoShihs and other Boston Terrier and Shih Tzu mixes appear in shelters and small-breed rescues. Adult dogs often come with known health histories and personalities, which makes matching easier.

Before your BoShih comes home, set up a soft bed, a well-fitted harness and leash, a crate, grooming tools, eye wipes or soft cloths, and a few toys. Book a vet visit in the first week. Then get ready for a loyal little shadow that will make every room feel a bit cozier.