Franklin

The Shih Tzu is small, popular, and friendly, so what more could you ask for in a companion dog? Their intelligence and loyalty, along with their independence, will have you cuddling up with this bunch of cheerfulness in no time. Full-grown, they typically weigh 9-16 pounds and stand 9-11 inches tall.

Shih Tzus are generally excellent with children of all ages. Shih Tzus are indoor dogs who get along with other pets very well and love to cuddle in your lap, making them great family companions. You would never want to limit these small dogs to just the outdoors. They're moderate barkers — they'll alert you when something's up but aren't excessive.

Shih Tzu need short, daily walk but should also occasionally be exercised indoors. They do not adapt to hot weather very well, so they must be a primarily indoor dog. Care must be taken not to over or under exercise them as well. Overall, their exercise needs are moderate.

Shih Tzus' long coat is somewhat high maintenance and requires everyday brushing to prevent tangles. These dogs should be taken to a professional groomer every couple of months. They are usually easier to maintain when their coats are clipped short, but you can't argue that those who have the long, dreamy coats are dramatic and eye catching. Grooming-wise, this breed is fairly high-maintenance. Shih Tzus are considered hypoallergenic, which can be a plus for allergy sufferers.

Shih Tzus are best suited for apartments and smaller homes. Since they are small, this breed can adapt to apartment living or a big house. Shih Tzus are indoor dogs who get along with other pets very well and love to cuddle in your lap, making them great family companions. They are fairly easy to train.

The Havapoo, or Poovanese is a “designer breed” made up of the Poodle and the Havanese, created in the United States that has gained popularity in the last decade. The Poovanese is not a pure breed and is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, however, it is expected to be bred from a pure bred Poodle and a pure bred Havanese. The Poovanese is, however, recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Dogs Kennel Club, International Designer Canine Registry and Designer Breed Registry. Due to the fact that the Poovanese is a mixed breed, there is no specific breed history explaining the origin or purpose of the breed's creation. Full-grown, they typically weigh 7-30 pounds and stand 8-15 inches tall.

Havapoos are generally good with kids, especially when raised together. A mixed breed dog can have a combination of any of the temperament and characteristics of any breed involved. They're relatively quiet and don't bark much.

The Havapoo / Poovanese has a moderate activity level and will require one or two daily walks accompanied by outdoor play. The Poovanese will do well in any living situation, however, they are not suited for outdoor living. Overall, their exercise needs are moderate.

The coat of the Havapoo / Poovanese can vary in length, but is always wavy or curly. The Havapoo / Poovanese exhibits a double coat that is short underneath, while the top coat is soft and fluffy. The Poovanese can appear an many various colors and markings, however, the most common is simply white. Grooming-wise, this breed is fairly high-maintenance. Havapoos are considered hypoallergenic, which can be a plus for allergy sufferers.

Havapoos are best suited for apartments and smaller homes. They are highly trainable and eager to learn.