A Brief History of Shih Poo Breed

Britta Thygesen 27.04.2023 0

It’s hard to resist the charm of a furry and affectionate four-legged friend, and the Shih Poo breed has become one of the most desirable among dog enthusiasts. Have you ever wondered about the origin of this adorable breed and what makes it so popular? You are in the right place! In this article, we will take you on a journey through the history of Shih Poo and highlight its unique characteristics. We will also delve into the reasons behind its rising popularity and provide insight into how you can take care of your furry companion. So, sit back, relax, and discover why the Shih Poo breed has captured the hearts of many.

Shih Poo’s Origin

Have you ever wondered where your cute and cuddly Shih Poo came from? These adorable dogs are a crossbreed between a Shih Tzu and a Poodle, and their origin story may surprise you. Both of their parent breeds have rich historical backgrounds that have contributed to the development of the Shih Poo, resulting in a unique and lovable hybrid. Let’s explore the fascinating history of the Shih Tzu and Poodle breeds to better understand the origins of the Shih Poo.

Brief History of Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu breed is believed to have originated in Tibet, where they were kept as temple dogs and were highly valued by Buddhist monks. These dogs were considered sacred and were often given as gifts to Chinese emperors. In fact, the Chinese Emperor himself owned several Shih Tzus!

The name “Shih Tzu” means “lion” in Chinese, which is fitting considering their regal and lion-like appearance. These dogs were primarily kept as companions, but were also used for hunting and as watchdogs.

During the early 20th century, British soldiers discovered the breed during their travels in China and brought them back to England. The Shih Tzu quickly gained popularity among European dog enthusiasts, and was recognized by the Kennel Club (UK) in 1949.

In the United States, the Shih Tzu was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1969, and has since remained a popular breed among families and dog lovers alike. They are known for their affectionate nature, playful personalities, and loyal dispositions. Their long and flowing coat requires a lot of grooming, but their loving nature and willingness to please makes them a cherished companion for many families.

Fun fact: Did you know that the Shih Tzu was originally bred to resemble a lion? The Chinese believed that lions were sacred animals and revered them for their protective abilities. The Shih Tzu’s long flowing mane was meant to resemble a lion’s mane, which is why they were given the name “little lion.”

Brief History of Poodle

The Poodle, also known as the Caniche, is a breed of dog that is believed to have originated in Germany, although some sources suggest that it may have originated in France. The Poodle is a highly intelligent breed that was bred for retrieving waterfowl, and their curly coat made them excel in that role.

Early History:

It is believed that the Poodle was developed from the French Barbet or the Hungarian Water Hound, and that they were popular in medieval Europe as working dogs.

During the Renaissance era, Poodles became popular in Spain and were commonly used as circus performers or as truffle hunters.
By the 18th century, Poodles had become popular in France, where they were adopted by the aristocracy and were often seen in royal courts.

Poodles Today:

Towards the end of the 19th century, Poodles were introduced to America, where breeders began to develop the breed for the show ring. Today, Poodles come in three sizes – Standard, Miniature, and Toy – and they are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one breed with three varieties.

Despite its regal history, the Poodle has been used in many different roles throughout history, including as a military dog, a guide dog for the blind, a watchdog, and a circus performer. They are known for their intelligence, obedience, and hypoallergenic coat, which makes them a popular choice for people with allergies.

If you are interested in learning more about the genetic factors behind the Shih Poo breed, check out our article on Factors that Influence the Traits of Shih Poo Dogs. Or, continue reading to learn more about why the Shih Poo has become such a popular breed in recent years.

Shih Poo’s Characteristics

As a breed that has emerged from two popular and beloved breeds – the Shih Tzu and the Poodle – the Shih Poo has inherited some of the best qualities of both its parents. With its adorable, hypoallergenic coat and friendly demeanor, these furry companions have won the hearts of many dog lovers. Let’s dive deeper into the unique characteristics that define this breed, and find out what makes them so in-demand among pet owners.

Physical Attributes

The physical attributes of the Shih Poo breed are a combination of the two breeds they originated from, the Shih Tzu and the Poodle. Their size can vary depending on the size of the Poodle parent, but generally, they are a small breed that typically weighs no more than 20 pounds. They have a cute and compact body shape, which is covered with curly or wavy hypoallergenic fur, making them an excellent choice for those with allergies.

Their floppy ears, round button eyes, and small snouts all contribute to their adorable appearance. Their coat can come in a variety of colors such as black, white, gold, apricot, or red. However, due to the Poodle’s genes, some Shih Poo may have a unique coat that is a combination of several colors.

Another great feature of the Shih Poo is their longevity. It is said that because of their unique combination of its parental breeds, Shih Poo is less prone to genetic disorders than a purebred breed. They usually live an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years.

Here are some physical attributes of Shih Poo at a glance:

Weight Range: 5-20 pounds
Height Range: 8-18 inches
Coat Type: Wavy or Curly
Coat Colors: Black, White, Gold, Apricot, or Red
Life expectancy: 10-15 years

While each Shih Poo may vary slightly in looks, they all have one common feature- they are all irresistibly cute. No wonder these little furballs have become one of the most sought-after breeds of dogs. Their physical attributes combined with their loving personalities make them an ideal pet for families, couples, and seniors. If you want to learn more about the Shih Poo’s rise to popularity, check out our article on why they have become a popular breed.

Temperament

Shih Poos are renowned for their affectionate and lovable nature. Inheriting traits from both their parents, Shih Poos are said to display the best of both worlds when it comes to temperament. They are playful, friendly, and social, making them excellent family pets.

However, it is important to note that each Shih Poo may display personality traits unique to themselves. Below is a table outlining some common personality traits that Shih Poos may display.

Personality Trait	Description
Playful	Shih Poos love to play and are always up for a game of fetch or chase.
Affectionate	Shih Poos are very loyal and enjoy spending time with their owners. They love nothing more than curling up for a movie or cuddle session.
Social	Shih Poos get along great with other pets and people. They enjoy being around others and are happy to make new friends.
Intelligent	With their Poodle heritage, Shih Poos are clever and quick learners. They are easy to train and can learn a range of tricks and commands.
Anxious	Some Shih Poos may be prone to anxiety, especially if they are left alone for long periods of time. It is important to provide them with attention and mental stimulation.
Stubborn	Shih Poos can be stubborn at times, which can make training more difficult. However, with consistency and positive reinforcement, they can be trained effectively.

It is important to note that some Shih Poos may display more of one trait than another. It is also important to properly socialize and train your Shih Poo to ensure they grow up to be well-behaved adults. With love, patience, and consistency, you can raise a happy and well-adjusted Shih Poo.

Trainability

Shih Poos are highly trainable dogs and are known for their intelligence and adaptability. They excel at learning new tricks and commands as they love pleasing their owners. Some of the top reasons why Shih Poos are so easy to train are:

Intelligence: Both the Shih Tzu and Poodle breeds are intelligent, and the Shih Poo inherits this trait. They are able to understand complex commands, and their ability to remember commands for an extended period makes them easy to train.
Positive reinforcement: Shih Poos respond well to positive reinforcement. Praising a Shih Poo for good behavior encourages repetition of that behavior.
Patience: Shih Poos can sometimes be stubborn, but with patience and consistency, they can quickly learn whatever you want them to. As with all dogs, training should be consistent and daily to achieve success.
Socialization: Socializing Shih Poos at a young age helps them develop good behaviors and reduce aggressive tendencies towards people or other dogs. They love interacting with people and animals, and exposing them to different people, places, and situations will help prevent anxiety or fear.

It is important to note that like any dog, Shih Poos can have individual personalities and may differ in their trainability. It is important for pet owners to use positive reinforcement techniques when training their Shih Poo and to avoid harsh punishment methods. With the right approach, you can expect a well-trained, loyal, and affectionate companion.

Health Concerns

Shih Poos are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health concerns. Here are some health concerns to keep in mind when considering adopting a Shih Poo.

| Health Concern | Description | Prevention |
| — | — | — |
| Patellar Luxation | A condition where the dog’s kneecap dislocates from its normal position, causing pain and lameness. | Regular exercise to keep muscles strong, avoiding obesity, and breeding from dogs that do not have the condition. |
| Hip Dysplasia | A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t properly fit the socket, which can eventually lead to arthritis. | Breed only from dogs that have been screened and cleared of hip dysplasia. |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | A group of genetic diseases that cause the retina to degenerate slowly over time, eventually leading to blindness. | Screening tests for PRA in breeding dogs can help reduce the risk of the disease. |
| Allergies | Shih Poos can develop allergies to food, pollen, or other environmental factors. Symptoms include itching, biting, and scratching at the skin. | Identifying and avoiding allergens, and seeking veterinary treatment for severe or persistent allergies. |
| Dental Problems | Shih Poos’ small size and crowded teeth can lead to dental problems like tartar build-up, gingivitis, and tooth decay. | Regular dental check-ups, daily brushing, and feeding dental treats or toys. |

It’s important to note that while these health concerns may occur in Shih Poos, not every dog will develop them. With proper care and regular vet check-ups, many health problems can be prevented or caught early and treated effectively. If you’re considering adopting a Shih Poo, make sure to choose a reputable breeder who screens their dogs for genetic health conditions.

Shih Poo’s Rise in Popularity

In the last decade, one of the most noticeable trends in the world of dogs has been the astonishing surge in the popularity of the Shih Poo breed. With their adorable appearance, charming personality, and celebrity endorsements, it’s no wonder that these dogs have become a rising star among dog lovers. However, the reasons for this newfound popularity are not always clear. In this section, we’ll explore some of the factors that have contributed to the remarkable rise of the Shih Poo breed in recent years.

Adoption Celebrity Endorsements

It’s no secret that celebrity endorsements can have a huge impact on the popularity of a product or trend. The same can be said for the rising popularity of the Shih Poo breed. Over the past few years, several celebrities have adopted Shih Poos and have shared their love for them on social media.

Here are a few notable celebrity Shih Poo owners:

Miley Cyrus – Miley is a proud owner of a Shih Poo named Bean, who she often features on her social media accounts. She has referred to Bean as her “baby” and has even created an Instagram account dedicated to her pup.
Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds – The celebrity couple has two Shih Poos named Penny and Billie. They have described their pups as “spirited, fun and loyal” and often share photos of them on their social media accounts.
Olivia Palermo – Olivia has a Shih Poo named Mr. Butler, who she often takes with her to fashion events and shares photos of on Instagram. She has described him as her “little partner in crime”.

These celebrity endorsements have helped to shine a light on the Shih Poo breed and increase their popularity amongst dog lovers. It’s important to note, however, that while celebrity endorsements can be influential, they should not be the sole reason for adopting a particular breed. It’s crucial to do research and ensure that the breed is a good fit for your lifestyle and family dynamic.

Online Appearance and Social Media Presence

In recent years, Shih Poo breed has gained immense popularity on social media platforms, particularly on Instagram and Facebook. These platforms allow pet owners to showcase their furry friends and share their experiences of raising them.

Shih Poo’s adorable looks, playful nature, and loyal personality have created a significant fan base online. The breed’s popularity has led to the formation of Shih Poo-specific social media pages, communities, and groups. These spaces serve as a hub for Shih Poo enthusiasts to connect, share tips, and seek advice from other owners.

One of the significant advantages of the breed’s social media presence is that it has helped raise awareness about the breed’s unique characteristics and temperament. Through various posts and stories, pet owners have shown how Shih Poo’s make incredible companions for families, older adults, and individuals with disabilities.

These social media platforms have also played a significant role in promoting responsible pet ownership. Many Shih Poo owners often share their experiences with the grooming needs, exercise requirements, and health concerns of the breed. Sharing this information has helped educate the public about the commitment and responsibility required in raising a Shih Poo.

Finally, online appearance and social media presence have played a part in promoting the adoption of Shih Poo. Many animal shelters and rescue organizations have utilized social media to showcase adoptable Shih Poos and encourage people to adopt instead of shop. This has helped save the lives of many Shih Poo’s and promote the responsible breeding of the breed.

The Shih Poo’s rise in popularity on social media platforms has played an essential role in raising awareness about the breed’s unique characteristics and promoting responsible pet ownership. The breed’s adorable looks, playful personality, and loyal nature have won the hearts of many, making them fan favorites on social media.

Why Consider Adopting a Shih Poo?

If you’re in search of the perfect furry companion, the Shih Poo may catch your eye. Adopting a dog is a big decision, so it’s important to take your time and consider your options. Shih Poos are small, cute, and full of charm, but there are many other reasons why they should be on your list of potential furry friends. Let’s take a closer look at why you should consider adding a Shih Poo to your family.

Compatibility with Family

Shih Poos are known for their compatibility with families. They are a loving and devoted breed that thrives on human companionship. They are affectionate towards their owners and enjoy spending time with them. Here are some reasons why Shih Poos are a great addition to any family:

Playfulness: Shih Poos have a playful demeanor that makes them great with children. They are energetic and always ready to play. They are also gentle and do not have a tendency to be aggressive.
Size: Shih Poos are a small breed, which makes them easy to handle and great for families living in apartments or smaller homes.
Adaptability: Shih Poos are adaptable to various living situations, which makes them a great choice for families that enjoy traveling or have a busy lifestyle. They can easily adjust to new surroundings and do not require a lot of space.
Friendliness: Shih Poos are friendly with other pets and people. They crave attention and love being around humans and other animals. This makes them the perfect companion for families with existing pets.
Protection: Though Shih Poos are small, they have a strong protective instinct towards their owners. They will bark to alert their owners of any potential danger, making them great watch dogs.

Shih Poos are an excellent choice for families looking for a loving and devoted companion. They are playful, adaptable, friendly, and protective, making them a great fit for a variety of living situations.

Low-Shedding and Allergy-Friendly Coat

One of the most attractive features of the Shih Poo breed is their low-shedding and allergy-friendly coat. This makes them an ideal pet for those who suffer from allergies or live in apartments and don’t want to deal with excessive shedding.

Shih Poos have a double coat that is typically thick and curly, inherited from their Poodle parent. This type of coat is less likely to shed and trap allergens. Additionally, their coat can come in a variety of colors, including white, black, brown, or a combination of these colors.

Table: Shih Poo Coat Characteristics

It’s important to note that despite their low-shedding and hypoallergenic qualities, Shih Poos still require regular grooming to maintain their coat’s health and appearance. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and trimming as needed.

The Shih Poo’s coat is a major selling point for those seeking a low-maintenance pet with minimal shedding and allergy-friendly qualities.

Overall Personality and Trainability

When it comes to personality and trainability, the Shih Poo is a top contender among designer breeds. They inherit their excellent temperament from the Shih Tzu and Poodle, resulting in a pooch that is loving, upbeat, and intelligent.

Here are some personality traits that you can expect from a Shih Poo:

Playful: Shih Poos love to play and have a great sense of humor. They enjoy being around people and have a mischievous side that just adds to their charm.
Devoted: These adorable pups are incredibly loyal to their owners and will form a strong bond with them quickly. They thrive on companionship and make great lap dogs.
Alert: Due to their watchdog instincts, Shih Poos are typically alert and can be vocal if they sense any potential danger, making them a great watchdog breed.
Friendly: Shih Poos are friendly with just about everyone, making them an excellent choice for families with children or other pets.

Shih Poos are highly trainable and intelligent. They can pick up tricks and commands quickly, but like many small breeds, they can sometimes have a stubborn streak, which requires patience and positive reinforcement. Early socialization and basic obedience training are essential for these dogs to become well-rounded and happy companions.

If you want a dog that is friendly, loyal, and trainable, a Shih Poo might be an excellent choice for you. However, it’s important to note that every dog is unique, and individual personalities can vary. It’s important to spend time with any dog you are considering adopting to ensure that their personality is compatible with your lifestyle and family.

Caring for Your Shih Poo

Taking care of your beloved Shih Poo is essential to ensure they live a healthy and happy life. As a hybrid breed originating from the Shih Tzu and Poodle, they can have a variety of physical traits and temperaments that require appropriate care. From diet and grooming to exercise and training, there are various aspects to consider when caring for your Shih Poo. Here are some tips and recommendations to keep your furry friend healthy and thriving.

Diet and Nutrition

A Shih Poo’s diet and nutrition is an essential part of their overall health and well-being. It’s important to ensure that your furry companion is getting the right nutrition and balance of nutrients to support their growth and keep them healthy.

Feeding Schedule: Shih Poos usually need to be fed twice a day, with one portion in the morning and another in the evening. Their meals should be well balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients.

Protein: A Shih Poo’s diet should contain a high-quality source of protein to support their muscle development and maintenance. Some good protein sources to consider include chicken, turkey, beef, and fish.

Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates provide energy for your Shih Poo, so it’s important to include them in their diet. However, you should aim for complex carbohydrates, such as brown rice or sweet potatoes, instead of simple carbohydrates like sugar.

Fats: Fats provide energy and essential fatty acids that can support a Shih Poo’s skin and coat health. Good sources of fat include fish oil, chicken fat, and turkey fat.

Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamins and minerals are essential for a Shih Poo’s overall health and well-being. Ensure that your furry friend’s diet contains a good balance of vitamins and minerals. You can also feed them multivitamin supplements.

Water: It is essential to provide your Shih Poo with fresh and clean water throughout the day to prevent dehydration and other related health issues.

Feeding your Shih Poo with a balanced and nutritious diet is vital for their overall health and well-being. A balanced diet rich in protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water can help your furry friend thrive and live a healthy life.

Grooming Needs

Shih Poos are a delightful mix of two different breeds, the Shih Tzu and the Poodle. As a result, they have a unique appearance that sets them apart from other breeds. When it comes to grooming needs, Shih Poos require regular maintenance to keep their coat healthy and looking its best.

Coat Type: Shih Poos can have a variety of coat types ranging from curly to straight, and their fur can be either long or short. Their coat may also have a mix of colors, including black, white, brown, and gray.

Grooming Frequency: To keep their coat in top condition, Shih Poos require regular grooming sessions. This includes brushing their fur at least two to three times a week to remove any tangles or knots. Shih Poos also need occasional trimming, and the frequency of trimming will depend on their coat length and texture.

Bathing: Shih Poos should be given a bath once a month or as needed. It’s important to use a gentle dog shampoo and conditioner to help keep their coat soft and shiny.

Ears: As with many breeds, Shih Poos are susceptible to ear infections, so it’s essential to regularly clean their ears. This should be done at least once a week using a damp cotton ball or ear cleaning solution.

Nails: Shih Poos tend to have fast-growing nails, which can cause discomfort if left untrimmed. Their nails should be trimmed monthly, or as needed.

Shih Poos require regular grooming to maintain their coat and ensure their overall well-being. It’s important to stay on top of their grooming needs to keep them looking and feeling their best.

Exercise and Activity Requirements

Keeping a Shih Poo physically active is not only important for their physical health but also for their mental well-being. They are an energetic breed and require daily exercise. However, their small size means that they can get sufficient exercise with indoor play and short walks.

Below is an outline of their exercise and activity requirements:

Activity	Duration/Frequency
Indoor Play	30 minutes daily
Short Walks	20-30 minutes, twice a day
Interactive Toys	15-20 minutes as needed
Affection and Companionship	Throughout the day

It is important to note that Shih Poos are prone to becoming overweight, so it is essential to monitor their diet and exercise. Additionally, they are sensitive to extreme weather conditions, such as excessive heat or cold, so it is important to keep them indoors during such conditions.

A Shih Poo’s exercise and activity requirements can easily be met with indoor play and short walks. However, the key is consistency and creating an exercise routine that works for both the pet and the family. By doing so, they will maintain a healthy weight and live a long, happy life.

Training and Socialization

To ensure that your Shih Poo has the best possible behavior, training and socialization are crucial. Due to their smart and intelligent nature, these dogs respond well to positive reinforcement training. As with any dog, consistency and patience are key to successful training.

Socialization is also an essential part of training for Shih Poos. Introducing your furry friend to various people, animals, and environments while they are young will make them well-adjusted adult dogs. Your Shih Poo should learn to be comfortable around strangers, other pets, and new environments. This will help them adapt to new situations and prevent anxiety and other behavioral issues in the future.

Below is a table outlining some tips and tricks for training and socializing your Shih Poo:

Training and Socialization Tips for Shih Poos
Start training as early as possible
Use positive reinforcement such as treats, verbal praise, and toys
Be consistent with commands and routines
Enroll in a puppy kindergarten or obedience class
Practice commands and leash training regularly
Expose your dog to new experiences and environments
Encourage playtime with other dogs and people
Supervise interactions with children and other pets
Never use physical punishment or negative reinforcement

By following these tips, you can ensure that your Shih Poo is a well-mannered and socialized dog. Training and socialization should be ongoing throughout your pet’s life to reinforce good behavior and prevent behavioral problems. Regular training sessions also provide an opportunity for bonding and reinforce your role as the pack leader in your dog’s life.

Health Concerns and Regular Vet Visits

Keeping your Shih Poo healthy is essential for their well-being and longevity. As a crossbreed, Shih Poos can inherit some health concerns from their parents, including patellar luxation (a kneecap dislocation), hip dysplasia (a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly), eye problems (such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy), and allergies.

Regular vet visits are crucial for maintaining your Shih Poo’s health. Your veterinarian can help you determine the best care plan for your dog based on their age, breed, and individual needs. During these visits, your vet will perform routine exams to check your dog’s overall health, provide preventive care (such as vaccinations and parasite prevention), and offer guidance on nutrition and exercise.

It’s important to establish a good relationship with your veterinarian and schedule regular check-ups for your Shih Poo. Early detection and treatment of health issues can prevent them from becoming more serious problems down the line. Additionally, keeping up with preventive care can save you from costly vet bills in the long run.

In addition to regular vet visits, there are steps you can take to keep your Shih Poo in good health at home. This includes offering them a balanced and healthy diet, engaging them in regular exercise and activity, providing them with proper grooming, and offering them plenty of love and attention. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your Shih Poo enjoys a long and happy life by your side.

Conclusion

In conclusion, adopting a Shih Poo can be a great decision for individuals or families looking for a loving and affectionate companion. With their distinctive looks and easy-going personalities, they have quickly become one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide.

Thanks to their low-shedding coats, owners don’t have to worry about excessive grooming or allergies. These adorable dogs are perfect for those who want a loyal companion but don’t have the time or space to care for a larger dog.

However, it’s important to note that owning a Shih Poo does require a level of commitment. Proper nutrition, exercise, grooming, and training are all necessary to ensure your pet stays healthy and happy. Regular vet visits are also vital to catch any potential health issues early on.

Overall, if you’re ready for the responsibility of owning a pet and want to add a new family member to your home, a Shih Poo could be the perfect choice. With their friendly and outgoing nature, they are sure to bring love and joy to any household.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes Shih Poos unique?

Shih Poos are a unique breed mix of the Shih Tzu and Poodle. They are known for their hypoallergenic coats, adorable looks, and friendly personality.

2. Are Shih Poos good family dogs?

Yes, Shih Poos are great family dogs. They are playful, affectionate, and get along well with children and other pets.

3. Do Shih Poos require a lot of grooming?

Yes, Shih Poos require regular grooming such as brushing, bathing, and hair trimming to maintain their fluffy coats and prevent matting.

4. Do Shih Poos have any health issues?

Like all dog breeds, Shih Poos can be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and dental problems. However, regular vet visits and proper care can help prevent or manage these concerns.

5. Do Shih Poos need a lot of exercise?

Shih Poos require moderate exercise daily such as short walks or playtime in the yard. However, they are adaptable to different lifestyles and can be suitable for apartment living.

6. Are Shih Poos difficult to train?

Shih Poos are intelligent and responsive but can have a stubborn streak. Consistent positive reinforcement training and socialization from an early age can help them learn and develop good manners.

7. Do Shih Poos have a lot of energy?

Shih Poos have a moderate energy level and can be playful and energetic when it’s time to play or go for a walk, but also enjoy cuddle time on the couch.

8. Are Shih Poos prone to separation anxiety?

Shih Poos can develop separation anxiety if they are left alone for extended periods of time. It’s important to gradually train them to become comfortable being alone and provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation when you are away.

9. Can Shih Poos be left alone for long periods of time?

No, Shih Poos are social dogs and do not do well when left alone for long periods of time. They thrive on social interaction with their humans and need plenty of love, attention, and mental stimulation.