Premier Pups > Breed Compare > Havapoo vs Shih Poo Comparison
Published Wednesday, December 29, 2021 by PremierPups
The Havapoo and the Shih Poo are two fantastic doodle dogs that know no limit when it comes to loving their humans. They are sweet, cuddly, and playful, and they love being with their people more than anything else. Both of these small doodle breeds are renowned for their intelligence, toy-like appearance, and darling nature. If your dream is to be the pet parent of a gorgeous bundle of joy, one that will impress you with cute tricks and steal your heart every day, join us on our journey to uncover their pros and cons and learn everything you need to know to make the right choice.
A puppy’s love is a pure thing and, here at Premier Pups, we aim to give our loving puppies the forever homes they deserve. Our specialized team of Puppy Agents is here to help you with the choosing process to make sure your new pup fits right in with your family.
Table of Contents
Havapoo vs Shih Poo Overview
Havapoo Overview
The Havapoo, one of the cutest doodle breeds in Dogdom, is a cross between a purebred Havanese dog and a purebred Miniature or Toy Poodle dog. Havapoo puppies were designed and bred by American breeders back in 1990. If you love Havanese and Poodle dogs, you’re in for a wonderful treat with their little doodle offspring. Our Havapoo puppies inherit all the wonderful qualities their Havanese/Poodle parents are known for. They are just as intelligent and sweet, and they appear with an excellent combination of looks and features. They are also hypoallergenic, quite easy to train, and capable of being alone for a few hours a day.
The Havapoo puppies are also known as:
- Havadoodle puppies
- Poovanese puppies
- Havanese Poodle mix puppies
Shih Poo Overview
Shih Poo puppies are one of the latest Doodle breeds to have appeared. Originally from the United States, these adorable puppies were designed to steal hearts with their darling looks and affectionate puppy nature. They are a cross between a purebred Shih Tzu dog and a purebred Miniature or Toy Poodle dog. Shih Poo puppies were first bred at the start of 2000 by crossing two highly popular purebred dogs that the world has loved for centuries.
If you’re browsing for a cute puppy to take home and can’t decide between the Shih Tzu and the Poodle, you’ll be enchanted to meet their little doodle puppy. Shih Poos are immensely affectionate companions and wonderful partners for a life of adventure.
The Shih Poo puppies are also known as:
- Shi Poo puppies
- Shih Tzu Poo puppies
- Shoodle puppies
- Shi Doodle puppies
- Shih Tzu Poodle mix puppies
Havapoo vs Shih Poo Overview Comparison
When you look at their histories and origins, the first thing that you will notice is that they come from the same place, having appeared only a decade apart. Both the Havapoo and the Shih Poo puppies were created in the United States by crossing different pure breeds. Compared to their Havapoo counterparts, the Shih Poo puppies appeared 10 years later. Although there is a slight difference between their dates of origin, the Havapoo and Shih Poo have been a great success among dog lovers. They are both just as popular, holding high ranks with the 20 most loved doodle breeds in the world.
As for their similarities, since one of their parents is a Poodle, you can expect both the Havapoo and the Shih Poo to be very loving, loyal, and quite brilliant. Both the Havapoo and Shih Poo are known to be hypoallergenic breeds that are not likely to cause allergic reactions to their owners.
Havapoo vs Shih Poo Overview Key Points
Comparison Table
| Breed | Havapoo | Shih Poo |
| Parent breeds | Havanese, Poodle | Shih Tzu, Poodle |
| Place of origin | US | US |
| Date of origin | 1990 | 2000 |
| Purpose | Companionship, hypoallergenic pet | Companionship, hypoallergenic pet |
| Breed type | Poodle mix, doodle breed | Poodle mix, doodle breed |
| Other names | Havadoodle, Poovanese | Shih Tzu poo, Shoodle, Shi doodle |
| Lifespan | 10-14 years | 10-15 years |
Havapoo vs Shih Poo Temperament
Havapoo Temperament
Our Havapoo puppies are what we like to call true bundles of joy since they are always in a happy, uplifting mood. These puppies are playful, inquisitive of everything that moves, and quite fond of being held. Not only are they well-behaved and easily trainable as puppies, but they grow up to be naturally obedient adult Havapoo dogs. With a Havapoo puppy in your life, your new favorite activity will be spending time with it.
Although they can be mischievous, as all young puppies are, Havapoos aren’t driven to chew through your favorite shoes - though your slippers might be fair game. If you have small children in the house, you’ll get another win with this little doodle dog.
Havapoos and kids are a wonderful match. Unlike other dogs, the Havapoo doesn’t possess risky behaviors like impatience or territorial aggression. These dogs share their kibble and toys gladly. Another excellent aspect about Havapoo puppies is that they are quick learners. With treats in your pocket, you’ll have the easiest time training them.
Shih Poo Temperament
Shih Poo puppies are first and foremost fans of adventure. If you too are passionate about long walks and hiking adventures, know that the Shih Poo dog was made to be your companion.
Shih Poo puppies are energetic little creatures that love to zoom, fetch, and sit comfortably on your lap. They might not be too eager to learn tricks without rewards and motivation, but they will repay your love and patience with true friendship.
As far as their temperament is concerned, Shih Poos display calmness and composure in most situations, the exception being when they are called upon to bark. These dogs are very friendly and eager to play with dogs and humans alike. Older kids that can match and keep up with the Shih Poo’s love for games are an ideal fit for these puppies.
Another amazing trait the Shih Poo puppies possess is their independent nature. Although they love their humans beyond anything else, Shih Poos don’t grow up to be overly dependent dogs. They can keep busy with naps and toys while they are alone, and they’re not ones to suffer from separation anxiety.
Havapoo vs Shih Poo Temperament Comparison
The Havapoo and the Shih Poo are without a doubt two of the most amazing doodle breeds in the world today. They are not only docile and well-behaved, but they also possess the best dog qualities an owner could wish for. Both the Havapoo and the Shih Poo are affectionate, independent, playful, and intelligent. They come with an everlasting desire to cheer and plenty of love to go around.
Since no two dog breeds are the same, the Havapoo and Shih Poo are here to show off their individual strengths and some of the differences that set them apart. The first aspect in which the Havapoo and the Shih Poo are different is seen in their energy levels. Both can be more energetic or more laid-back, but generally Shih Poo puppies grow up to be more energetic than Havapoos. Shih Poos are driven to live a life of fun games and activities, while Havapoos, although moderately energetic, prefer less intense activities. Another difference between the two is their trainability.
Although both the Havapoo and the Shih Poo can be trained easily when their ideal motivation is identified, the Havapoo puppies tend to be more eager to learn. Shih Poo puppies are a little more free-spirited and can become stubborn in training if their rewards aren’t motivating enough.
When it comes to kids and family life, Shih Poos tend to be the enthusiastic playmates that older children love more. Havapoos are calmer and match better with smaller children.
Havapoo vs Shih Poo Temperament Key Points
Comparison Table
| Breed | Havapoo | Shih Poo |
| Good with kids | Yes | Yes |
| Training | Easy | Easy, can be stubborn |
| Friendly | Yes | Yes |
| Separation anxiety | Independent | Independent |
| Energy levels | Moderately energetic | Moderate to high energy |
| Good for | Families with young kids, seniors, new owners | Families with older kids, active owners, experienced owners |
| Barking | Occasionally | Occasionally |
Havapoo vs Shih Poo Appearance
Havapoo Appearance
Havapoos sport a most wonderful look that combines cuddliness with joyful expressions and friendly demeanor. These adorable doggos have a well-proportioned build with plenty of nicely curled hair covering their small bodies. Havapoos appear with Teddybear-like features and an adorable prancing step. Their eyes are dark and round-shaped with an attentive expression. Their tails are puffy, curled, and always worn upwards.
Because they are a crossbreed of different purebred dog breeds, Havapoo dogs come with a combination of looks and features from both of their gorgeous parents.
The Havapoo size is between 9 and 12 inches for a full-grown Havapoo, while the Havapoo weight can reach 8 to 12 pounds for adult dogs. Their coats are rich, waved or curled, with color combinations or solid coloring. Havapoo colors are chocolate, cream, silver, gold, white, black, gray, blue, apricot, and fawn.
Shih Poo Appearance
At a first glance, Shih Poos might appear delicate and mellow, which is in fact the opposite of how they are built. These beautiful dogs have a hardy, sturdy build, with plenty of muscle and strength. They are athletic, agile, and quite resilient. Shih Poos wear their tails curled over their backs and their ears hanging loosely near their rounded faces. Their expressions are inquisitive and soulful, and their demeanor speaks tons about their sweet and playful nature.
As a crossbreed, Shih Poos can sport more Shih Tzu or Poodle features or a combination of both. Generally, the Shih Poo size will vary from 8 to 17 inches in height with a weight of 8 to 18 pounds for a full-grown Shih Poo. Their coats may appear with a straight, wavy, or curled texture depending on which of their parents they take after more. Shih Poo colors are brown, apricot, gray, white, black, and brindle.
Havapoo vs Shih Poo Appearance Comparison
Havapoos and Shih Poos are both stunning-looking doodle breeds that charm with adorable features. Both doodle dogs can appear with more features from either of their parents or sport a combination of looks from both.
The first difference between the two is their size. Shih Poos can reach up to 17 inches tall and weigh up to 18 pounds, while Havapoos are generally smaller with a height of 9 to 12 inches and a weight of 8 to 12 pounds. Because Havapoos are a mix between two wavy to curly-haired dog breeds, they will most likely sport a similar textured coat. Shih Poos on the other hand, are a mix between a straight-haired dog and a curly-haired one and can appear with either coat texture or a combination of both.
Havapoo vs Shih Poo Appearance Key Points
Comparison Table
| Breed | Havapoo | Shih Poo |
| Adult weight | 8-12 pounds | 9-18 pounds |
| Adult height | 9-12 inches | 8-17 inches |
| Coat type | Wavy, curly | Straight, wavy, curly |
| Colors | Cream, silver, gold, white, black, gray, blue, apricot, fawn | Brown, apricot, gray, white, black, brindle, cream |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | Yes |
| Sheddint | Minimal | Minimal |
Havapoo vs Shih Poo Comparison Conclusion
As we reach the end of our Havapoo vs Shih Poo breed comparison, we feel it’s safe to say that whichever doodle puppy you choose, your life will be enriched with love, friendship, and joy. These two sweet doodle dogs are ready to play a game of fetch, to cuddle, and to join you on your adventures. Although they can both adapt to any type of lifestyle and environment, we believe that each was made for a certain type of owner.
Our sweet Havapoo puppies are very loving and easy to train. They are a great fit for a family with small children, for retirees, and for new puppy owners. Our adorable Shih Poo puppies are more adventurous and energetic and will love to have an owner that will bring them along on fun outings. Shih Poo puppies make excellent pets for families with older children, active seniors, and more experienced owners.
Elena R.
About The Author
Elena is a leading expert in the field of dog behavior, care, and training, with over a decade of experience in writing about dogs. As a published writer and lifelong dog enthusiast, Elena currently shares her home with three beloved canine companions. She is dedicated to staying up to date on the latest advancements in dog care and training, ensuring that her articles provide readers with accurate and valuable insights. With her extensive knowledge and passion for all things canine, Elena's contributions to the Premier Pups community offer both expertise and authority on a wide range of dog-related topics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more energetic, Havapoo or Shih Poo? Both the Havapoo and Shih Poo are known for their energetic and playful nature. While the Havapoo often possesses a bubbly spirit thanks to the Havanese lineage, the Shih Poo, influenced by the Shih Tzu's calm nature may be a tad more relaxed.
Havapoo or Shih Poo, which barks more? Both breeds have a tendency to bark to alert their owners of anything unusual. Havapoos may sometimes bark when seeking attention, while Shih Poos can be more vocal if not adequately socialized or trained. However, individual tendencies can differ widely.
Do Havapoos have more separation anxiety than Shih Poos? Both the Havapoo and Shih Poo can exhibit signs of separation anxiety if left alone for prolonged periods. This stems from their strong attachment to their families and their social nature.
Should I get a Havapoo or a Shih Poo? Your choice should be influenced by your lifestyle and preferences. If you're drawn to the combination of Havanese and Poodle traits, then a Havapoo might be ideal. However, if you're looking for a blend of Shih Tzu and Poodle characteristics, a Shih Poo would be the better fit.
Which is better, a Havapoo or a Shih Poo? Both breeds have their unique qualities and charm. What's "better" is subjective and depends on individual preferences and lifestyles.
What is the lifespan of a Havapoo vs. Shih Poo? Both breeds generally enjoy a lifespan of around 12-15 years, depending on health, care, and genetics.
Are Havapoos easier to train than Shih Poos? Both breeds are intelligent and receptive to training, especially when started young. That being said, the Havapoo does have an upper hand in training compared to the sometimes-stubborn Shih Poo. Positive reinforcement techniques can be effective for both.
Do Havapoos shed more than Shih Poos? Both breeds are considered low-shedders due to their Poodle lineage. Havapoos and Shih Poos often have hypoallergenic coats, making them suitable for many allergy sufferers.
Which is calmer, a Havapoo or a Shih Poo? Both breeds can exhibit calm moments, especially when they are around their families. Shih Poos might have a slightly more laid-back nature on occasion, taking after the Shih Tzu's temperament.