Saussie Breed Information

Grooming

Grooming an Auss-Tzu (Saussie) requires regular attention to keep their coat healthy and looking its best. The combination of Australian Shepherd and Shih Tzu genes means their grooming needs can vary, but here are some general guidelines: 

Brushing: Auss-Tzus typically have a coat that can range from medium-length and wavy to long and flowing. Regular brushing, at least 3-4 times a week, helps to prevent tangles and matting. For those with longer coats, daily brushing is recommended to keep the fur smooth and free of debris. 

Bathing: Bathe your Auss-Tzu every 4-6 weeks or as needed. Use a mild dog shampoo to avoid skin irritation. Over-bathing can strip the natural oils from their coat, so it's essential to find a balance. 

Trimming: Regular trims are necessary, especially around the face, paws, and tail, to keep them looking neat. Depending on the coat length and type, you might need to visit a professional groomer every 6-8 weeks. 

Ears: Check their ears weekly for signs of infection, such as redness, odor, or excessive wax buildup. Clean their ears with a vet-approved ear cleaner to prevent infections, which are common in dogs with floppy ears. 

Eyes: Due to their Shih Tzu heritage, Auss-Tzus may have tear staining. Wipe their eyes daily with a damp cloth to keep the area clean and reduce staining. 

Teeth: Dental hygiene is crucial for the overall health of your Auss-Tzu. Brush their teeth several times a week using dog-friendly toothpaste. Regular dental check-ups with your vet can help prevent periodontal disease. 

Nails: Trim your Auss-Tzu’s nails every 3-4 weeks. If you can hear their nails clicking on the floor, it’s time for a trim. Regular nail care helps to prevent overgrowth and splitting. 

Coat Care Products: Consider using detangling sprays or conditioning treatments, especially for longer coats, to keep the fur manageable and reduce matting. 

Professional Grooming: Regular visits to a professional groomer can help maintain your Auss-Tzu’s coat and overall appearance. Groomers can also provide valuable advice on the specific needs of your dog’s coat type. 

Skin Checks: While grooming, check your Auss-Tzu’s skin for any signs of irritation, lumps, or parasites. Early detection of skin issues can help prevent more serious health problems. 

Exercise Needs

Auss-Tzus (Saussies) are active and energetic dogs that require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Their exercise needs are influenced by their Australian Shepherd heritage, known for its high energy levels and working dog capabilities. Here’s how to ensure your Auss-Tzu gets the exercise they need: 

Daily Walks: Aim for at least one long walk each day, ideally lasting 30 to 60 minutes. This helps burn off energy and provides mental stimulation through new sights and smells. 

Playtime: Incorporate interactive play sessions throughout the day. Games like fetch, tug-of-war, and frisbee are great for keeping your Auss-Tzu engaged and physically active. 

Agility Training: Given their intelligence and agility, Auss-Tzus excel in agility training. Set up a simple agility course in your backyard or join a local dog agility class to keep them mentally and physically challenged. 

Socialization: Regular trips to the dog park can help your Auss-Tzu socialize with other dogs. Social interaction is essential for their mental well-being and helps prevent behavioral issues. 

Puzzle Toys: Use puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys to keep their minds engaged, especially during indoor playtime. This can help reduce boredom and prevent destructive behaviors. 

Obedience Training: Regular obedience training sessions not only provide mental stimulation but also reinforce good behavior. Training can be incorporated into daily routines, making it both fun and educational for your Auss-Tzu. 

Off-Leash Time: If you have a safe, enclosed area, allow your Auss-Tzu some off-leash time to run and explore freely. This is particularly beneficial for their physical and mental health. 

Hiking: For more adventurous Auss-Tzus, hiking can be a fantastic way to exercise. The varying terrain and new environments provide both physical and mental stimulation. 

Swimming: Some Auss-Tzus may enjoy swimming, which is a low-impact exercise that's great for their joints and overall fitness. Always supervise them around water to ensure their safety. 

Indoor Activities: On days when outdoor exercise isn't possible, engage your Auss-Tzu with indoor activities like hide-and-seek, stair climbing, or a short indoor obstacle course. 

Health

Auss-Tzus (Saussies) are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Understanding these potential concerns can help you provide the best care for your furry friend. Here are some common health issues and general health care tips for Auss-Tzus: 

• Allergies: Auss-Tzus can suffer from allergies, which might manifest as skin issues or gastrointestinal problems. Identifying and avoiding allergens, whether they are food-related or environmental, is crucial. 
• Dental Issues: Dental health is important for Auss-Tzus, especially considering the Shih Tzu’s predisposition to dental problems. Regular teeth brushing and dental check-ups are essential to prevent periodontal disease. 
• Ear Infections: Auss-Tzus, especially those with floppy ears, can be prone to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning and keeping their ears dry can help prevent infections. 
• Obesity: Like many companion dogs, Auss-Tzus can become overweight if not properly managed. A balanced diet and regular exercise are critical to preventing obesity and its associated health issues. 

Regular Vet Check-ups: Routine vet visits are essential to monitor your Auss-Tzu’s health, catch any potential issues early, and keep their vaccinations up to date. 

Healthy Diet: Feeding your Auss-Tzu a balanced, high-quality diet tailored to their size, age, and activity level is crucial for their overall health. Consult your vet for dietary recommendations. 

Lifespan

Auss-Tzus (Saussies) typically enjoy a long and healthy life, thanks to their mixed breed heritage. Understanding their lifespan and factors that can influence it helps in providing the best care for your pet. 

The Auss-Tzu generally has a lifespan ranging from 12 to 15 years. This can vary depending on factors such as genetics, overall health, diet, and lifestyle. Being a hybrid, the Auss-Tzu benefits from the genetic diversity of its parent breeds, often resulting in a lower likelihood of inheriting breed-specific health issues.  

Training

Training an Auss-Tzu (Saussie) can be a rewarding experience, thanks to their intelligence and eagerness to please. However, their independent streak, inherited from the Shih Tzu, can sometimes make training a bit challenging. Here are some tips to effectively train your Auss-Tzu: 

1. Start Early: Begin training as soon as you bring your Auss-Tzu home. Early training helps establish good habits and prevents unwanted behaviors from developing. 
2. Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and affection. Auss-Tzus respond well to rewards and are more likely to repeat good behavior when it's positively reinforced.
3. Consistency: Be consistent with commands and rules. Ensure that all family members use the same commands and follow the same rules to avoid confusing your Auss-Tzu.
4. Short Training Sessions: Keep training sessions short and engaging, around 10-15 minutes each. This helps maintain their attention and prevents them from becoming bored or frustrated.
5. Socialization: Expose your Auss-Tzu to various environments, people, and other animals from a young age. Proper socialization helps them become well-adjusted and confident adults.
6. Obedience Classes: Consider enrolling your Auss-Tzu in obedience classes. Professional training can provide valuable skills and help address any specific behavior issues. \
7. Basic Commands: Focus on teaching basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leave it. These commands form the foundation for more advanced training.
8. Crate Training: Crate training can be beneficial for house training and providing a safe space for your Auss-Tzu. Ensure the crate is comfortable and never use it as a punishment.
9. Leash Training: Teach your Auss-Tzu to walk nicely on a leash. Start with short walks and gradually increase the distance. Use treats and praise to encourage good leash behavior.
10. Patience and Persistence: Training can take time, so be patient and persistent. Celebrate small successes and remain calm and positive throughout the process.
11. Problem-Solving Skills: Given their intelligence, Auss-Tzus enjoy activities that challenge their problem-solving skills. Incorporate puzzle toys and interactive games into their training regimen.