Favored for their elegance, classiness, proud demeanor, and charismatic personality, the Shih Pom dogs or Shiranian dogs are by definition dogs of royalty. They originated in North America a little over three decades ago and are believed to have been created as a new hypoallergenic dog breed. A hybrid of a Shih Tzu and a Pomeranian, the Shih Pom puppy is a canine superstar in the hearts of Americans.
The Shih Tzu and the Pomeranian have been two of the most adored dog breeds throughout history. They both have rich pasts filled with achievements, canine titles, and worldwide fame. The Shih Tzu and the Pomeranian have been raised among kings, emperors, and queens and they both share the remarkable qualities every dog lover craves for. As their offspring, the Shih Pom puppy/Shiranian puppy inherits the royal attitude and affectionate nature of the Shih Tzu and the friendliness and happy disposition of the Pomeranian.
Although Shih Pom puppies haven’t been around for a very long time, we can learn more about them through their parent breeds.
Also known as the Lion Dog and the Royal Dog, the Shih Tzu has long been associated with luxury. During their long history, the Shih Tzu dogs took residence on the laps of Chinese Emperors, European Kings and Queens, and American aristocrats. They traveled from one luxurious palace to the next during dynasties and called castles their home through many kingdoms. Although their origin is yet unclear, the Shih Tzu dogs are believed to come from China, where, during ancient times, they were considered a kingly gift that only the very powerful could receive. As such, the Shih Tzu puppies were the most cherished companions of royal families.
Although kingdoms and dynasties have long been outrun by modern times, the Shih Tzu popularity among high society families has remained unaltered. As of 2021, the Shih Tzu is the number one breed in many states across America as well as a favorite dog in European countries. These remarkable dogs are known for their strong loyalty, affectionate nature, and elegant looks. The Shih Tzu Pomeranian mix known as the Shih Pom and Shiranian inherits these and many more amazing qualities from the Shih Tzu side of the family.
The Pomeranian, a dog from the ancient region of Pomerania near the Baltic Sea, is a Spitz family member and the descendant of a large sled-pulling dog from the Arctic. With roots in the harsh environment of the Arctic, the Pomeranian breed remains a hardy and resilient dog despite his now small stature. The ancient Pomeranian was a big dog – one that could endure pulling on a heavy sled through thick snow and icy-cold weather. Although their journey is not entirely documented, the Pomeranian puppies made their way from the frozen lands and hardship lives into a gentler climate and a life of pampering. They were bred down in Pomerania, although not entirely to the size they sport today, and later moved on to capture the favor of Queen Victoria.
As one of the Pomeranian breed’s biggest fans, Queen Victoria took it upon herself to further the breed's popularity by breeding them down in size even more. Today, this dog is as small as small dogs get. The Mini Pomeranian, Teacup Pomeranian, and Micro Pomeranian are all variations of the Standard Pomeranian who is also a toy-sized dog. These dogs merit their fame to their fearless personality, fluffy adorable looks, and loving nature – all wonderful qualities that they pass on to their Shih Tzu Pomeranian mix puppies.
Both the Shih Tzu and Pomeranian know great fame among dog lovers. Because of their many exceptional personality traits and gorgeous features, the Shih Tzu and Pomeranian were both crossed with other breeds in order to produce new designer dog breeds like the Shih Pom. Among the most popular crossbreeds of Shih Tzu dogs and Pomeranian dogs are:
- Shih Poo – Shih Tzu Poodle mix
- Shorkie – Shih Tzu Yorkie mix
- ShiChi – Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix
- Havashu – Havanese Shih Tzu mix
- Shichon – Shih Tzu Bichon mix
- Mal-Shi – Shih Tzu Maltese mix
- Pomapoo – Pomeranian Poodle mix
- Pomsky – Pomeranian Husky mix
- Pomachon – Pomeranian Bichon mix
- Maltipom - Pomeranian Maltese mix
- Yorkie Pom – Pomeranian Yorkie mix