Bichon Frise Shih Tzu Mix Body Length
A full-grown Bichon Frise Shih Tzu mix typically measures 11–15 inches from the base of the neck to the base of the tail, with a shoulder height of 8–12 inches and a weight range of 10–17 lbs. If your dog takes after the Bichon parent, expect a slightly longer back and a more rectangular frame. If the Shih Tzu side dominates, the body will be shorter, stockier, and more compact.
This measurement isn’t just a fun fact — it directly affects which crate size fits, which harness won’t rub, and whether your grooming table works for your dog. Measuring your pup’s actual body length (rather than guessing based on weight) helps you buy the right gear the first time.
Average Body Length for a Bichon Shih Tzu Mix
Both parent breeds are small, but their proportions differ noticeably. This table gives you a practical comparison:
| Breed | Shoulder Height | Body Length (base of neck to tail) | Weight Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bichon Frise | 9–12 inches | 12–15 inches | 12–18 lbs |
| Shih Tzu | 8–11 inches | 10–13 inches | 9–16 lbs |
| Bichon Shih Tzu Mix | 8–12 inches | 11–15 inches | 10–17 lbs |
The mix usually falls somewhere between the two parent averages. If your dog leans toward the longer end (14–15 inches), you’ll need gear sized for a slightly longer small breed. If your dog is on the shorter end (11–12 inches), compact-size products will fit better.
Practical implication: A 12-inch body length dog needs a different crate (minimum 18-inch interior length) than a 15-inch dog (minimum 22-inch interior length). Buying based on weight alone often leads to returning gear — measure first.
How to Measure Your Dog’s Body Length Accurately
Measuring gives you a number you can trust for harness, crate, and grooming table decisions. Here’s the repeatable method:
What You’ll Need
- A soft cloth measuring tape (not a metal retractable tape — it won’t follow your dog’s curves)
- A helper to keep your dog still
- A high-value treat to hold their attention
Step-by-Step Measurement
1. Position your dog on a flat, non-slip surface — A hardwood floor or tile with a yoga mat works well. All four paws should be evenly placed. A relaxed standing posture gives the truest measurement.
2. Locate the reference points — Find the base of the neck (where the collar naturally sits) and the base of the tail (where the tail meets the rump). Run your fingers through the fur to feel the bone.
3. Place the measuring tape — Put the end at the base of the neck. Run the tape along the spine to the base of the tail. Do not pull tight — the tape should lie flat against the coat.
4. Read and record — Write down the number. Then repeat the measurement and take the average.
5. Add wiggle room for gear — For a crate, add 2–3 inches. For a harness, check the manufacturer’s specific length recommendation.
Checkpoint: If your dog arches its back or hunches, stop and try again later. A stressed dog can add an inch or more to the measurement. Wait until your dog is calm and standing naturally.
Likely cause of variation: A fluffy coat can add visual length. Press the tape gently into the fur to get the true body length. If you’re unsure, wet your fingers and smooth the hair along the spine for a better read.
When to escalate: If your dog’s measured length is well outside the 11–15 inch range, or if you notice a sudden change in length (possible spinal issue), consult your veterinarian.
Why Body Length Matters for Everyday Gear Decisions
Knowing your dog’s exact body length changes what you buy and how well it fits.
Crate Sizing
A crate should be long enough for your dog to stretch out with legs extended. For a Bichon Shih Tzu mix:
- Dogs up to 12 inches body length → 18–20 inch interior length crate
- Dogs 13–15 inches body length → 22–24 inch interior length crate
A crate that’s too short forces your dog to curl up constantly, which can cause joint stiffness. A crate that’s too large removes the cozy den feeling and can make house training harder.
Harness Fit
Harnesses aren’t one-size-fits-all. Brands like Ruffwear, Puppia, and Kurgo list body length in their sizing charts alongside chest girth. If your dog’s body length falls between sizes, size up — a slightly larger harness can be adjusted down, but a too-short harness will rub the armpits raw.
Grooming Table
If you groom at home, a table with a 24-inch surface is plenty for a mix up to 15 inches long. Check your dog’s length to ensure the grooming noose doesn’t pull the dog off-center while you work.
Product recommendation: For measuring, a soft tailor’s tape (like the Perfect Fit measuring tape, ~$5) is worth having. For a harness that fits true to length, try the Puppia Soft Mesh Harness (sizes XS–M) — it’s designed for small mixed breeds and lists body length in the size guide.
We may earn a commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Expert Tips for Consistent Measurements
These three tips will help you get reliable measurements every time and avoid common sizing mistakes.
Tip 1: Measure at the same time of day. Dogs “settle” after exercise or rest. Morning vs. evening measurements can differ by half an inch. Pick a consistent time — right after a potty break works well. Common mistake: measuring on a soft bed or couch, which compresses the body and gives a shorter reading.
Tip 2: Use the measurement for harness fit specifically. Many small-breed harnesses list a length range. A harness that’s too short digs into the armpits; one that’s too long can slip over the shoulders. Match your dog’s measured length to the harness’s recommended body length. Common mistake: buying a harness based on chest girth only, ignoring length, which leads to chafing or escape.
Tip 3: Keep a puppy growth journal. Record length and weight every two weeks for the first 18 months. This helps spot growth plateaus or sudden changes early. Common mistake: measuring only when you remember, missing critical growth milestones and buying the wrong size crate twice.
What Can Go Wrong When You Rely on Weight Alone
Many owners size gear using their dog’s weight, then end up with a poor fit. Here are the specific problems:
- A harness that fits the chest but is too short — This happens when the dog has a longer back (Bichon-influenced) but is lightweight. The harness sits too far forward and rubs the armpits raw.
- A crate that’s too snug — Your 15-inch dog seems “small” at 12 lbs, but needs a 22-inch crate. An 18-inch crate forces them to hunch.
- Grooming noose misalignment — If the noose attaches at the wrong point because the dog is longer than expected, it can pull the dog off-balance on the table.
Trade-off: Sizing up in a harness adds adjustability but can create bulk. Sizing down saves on weight but risks chafing. Measure your dog’s actual length and consult the brand’s size chart — don’t guess.
How to Confirm Your Gear Fits Correctly
After you’ve measured and made a purchase, run this quick verification check:
Harness Fit Check
1. Put the harness on and adjust all straps.
2. Check that the front strap sits at the base of the neck (not pressing into the throat).
3. Check the back strap lies along the spine without pulling to either side.
4. Slide two fingers under any strap — if you can’t fit two fingers, it’s too tight. If you can fit four, it’s too loose.
5. Success signal: Your dog walks comfortably without pausing to scratch or bite at the harness.
Crate Fit Check
1. Lure your dog into the crate with a treat.
2. Watch your dog lie down and stretch — the nose should not touch the front wall and the tail should not touch the back wall.
3. Stop signal: If your dog curls into a tight ball every time, the crate is too short. Size up.
Save This Guide
Quick reference: Your Bichon Frise Shih Tzu mix body length likely falls between 11–15 inches (average 12–15). Measure from base of neck to base of tail with a soft tape while your dog stands on a flat surface. Use this measurement — not weight alone — to choose the right crate (18–24 inch interior length), harness (check brand size chart), and grooming table (24-inch surface). Track growth every two weeks until 18 months to catch changes early.
Key takeaway: One accurate measurement saves you from buying the wrong gear twice. Measure once, measure right, and your dog will be more comfortable for it.
We may earn a commission if you purchase through the product links in this guide, at no extra cost to you.