Knowing which breeder is right for you among all the Shih Tzu breeders out there is a task within itself. There is so much information to be learned on picking the right breeder – and the right puppy! How the breeder handles his puppies, and how he communicates with you all around is very important.
Some things to think about while searching through the mass of breeders would be the following:
- Breeder does not sell puppies to wholesalers, brokers, dealers or retail shops.
- Dog set up is clean and well kept.
- Breeder volunteered information on the health testing of most of the immediate relatives of the sire and dam, volunteered proof and offers a guarantee against genetic health problems of at least two years. (Note: It isn't possible to produce dogs entirely free of genetic problems.)
- Puppies for sale and dogs for sale have been introduced to children and other animals as part of their socialization.
- Breeder reviewed some of the problems some people have with the breed.
- Breeder asked if you plan to breed the dog.
- Breeder is available as a resource for advice and support for the life of the dog.
- Breeder promises to take the dog in (not return your money) if you can't keep it, for the life of the dog.
- Breeder raises no more than 3 or 4 different breeds of puppies for sale and dogs for sale. It is very difficult for a breeder to be competent in more breeds.
- Breeder's primary concern is finding a good home for the puppy, rather than getting paid.
- Breeder asked you lots of questions about your lifestyle, family, experience with dogs and other pets, why you are looking for a dog for sale.
- Breeder was happy to answer all your questions and made you feel comfortable asking for advice. *
“Please be very wary about "registered" puppies, regardless of which registry papers the puppy may hold. Please note, many, many of the "papered" puppies that come from puppymills and unknowledgable back yard breeders are registered through very official-sounding registries, even the long-established American Kennel Club. If you want a good-quality puppy, even a pet-quality one, check out the breeder IN DETAIL.” - Lone Star**
It’s so important to remember these details! As we choose our breeder amongst the many other Shih Tzu breeders out there, let’s have these questions ready to insure we make the right decision on our chosen breeder – for both our soon-to-be puppies and us!
Happy Hunting for Shih Tzu Breeders!
-Tiffa
*Checklist items taken from Breeders.NET
**Lone Star
23.8.07
19.8.07
Shih Tzu Breeders and Puppy Care
I read an article recently that offered tips and tricks (though some may already know a lot of this already!) for Shih Tzu breeders in taking care of their pups. Though this may be aimed at the “beginner breeder”, I believe it would be good for all of us to hear these words of wisdom – even if it may be a repeat for experienced breeders!
The Toy Dog Trainers* say, “Shih Tzu puppies should be fed at regular intervals and are never to be force fed as they eat only when hungry. Some food and water should be left in front of their crates at night. Restricting their movements by baby gates or confining them to a secure spot with chewable toys is a must, to prevent accidents. Vaccination should be administered carefully to boost their immunity. Pups are fragile and owners should not play with them for more than 30 minutes at a stretch. Small children often confuse them with toys and might harm them unknowingly and thus, the pups should be kept under strict watch.”
Of course there's a lot more to training and caring for your Shih Tzu, but this is a great start.
-Tiffa
*Toy Dog Trainers
The Toy Dog Trainers* say, “Shih Tzu puppies should be fed at regular intervals and are never to be force fed as they eat only when hungry. Some food and water should be left in front of their crates at night. Restricting their movements by baby gates or confining them to a secure spot with chewable toys is a must, to prevent accidents. Vaccination should be administered carefully to boost their immunity. Pups are fragile and owners should not play with them for more than 30 minutes at a stretch. Small children often confuse them with toys and might harm them unknowingly and thus, the pups should be kept under strict watch.”
Of course there's a lot more to training and caring for your Shih Tzu, but this is a great start.
-Tiffa
*Toy Dog Trainers
From Shih Tzu Breeders to Owners
I believe the transition between Shih Tzu breeders to the dog’s owners is a very important issue. The dog will apt to be more comfortable with you if you make his transition into his new home. Remember, they have never seen their new environment before, so show him around a bit and help him get comfortable!
Here’s a thought to remember before buying your Shih Tzu:
“Although he is generally outgoing and friendly, the Shih Tzu definitely has an attitude that cries to be spoiled. If you need help in realizing this fact, the dog will steer you in the right direction with his self-assurance that he should be treated like a king. Indeed, his strong sense of self makes him a poor choice in a household with babies or small children. He is often jealous of babies and toddlers and may snap if bothered by rambunctious children. However, he is a fine companion for older children, particularly those who enjoy combing his hair.” - Dog Owner's Guide*
Enjoy your little ball of fluff and give him lots of love during the transition from Shih Tzu breeders to your home!
-Tiffa
*Dog Owner's Guide
Here’s a thought to remember before buying your Shih Tzu:
“Although he is generally outgoing and friendly, the Shih Tzu definitely has an attitude that cries to be spoiled. If you need help in realizing this fact, the dog will steer you in the right direction with his self-assurance that he should be treated like a king. Indeed, his strong sense of self makes him a poor choice in a household with babies or small children. He is often jealous of babies and toddlers and may snap if bothered by rambunctious children. However, he is a fine companion for older children, particularly those who enjoy combing his hair.” - Dog Owner's Guide*
Enjoy your little ball of fluff and give him lots of love during the transition from Shih Tzu breeders to your home!
-Tiffa
*Dog Owner's Guide
18.8.07
New Shih Tzu Breeders Site!
Hello and welcome to my Shih Tzu Breeders website! I’m so happy to see you here and hope this site is able to help you choose your own Shih Tzu breeder, and puppy! I want you and your puppy to start off on the right foot!
I started this website with the hope that I may help those who are earnestly seeking Shih Tzu breeders, and wondering how to pick the right one, among the many thousands. It’s a tiring job, and I hope that this website helps lighten your burden. I’ll be sharing pointers, tips, tricks, advice, and comments that have (and will have) helped me to find the breeder that best works for me.
May this site help guide you as you choose the breeder that works for you and your soon-to-be Shih Tzu!
-Tiffani Byrne
I started this website with the hope that I may help those who are earnestly seeking Shih Tzu breeders, and wondering how to pick the right one, among the many thousands. It’s a tiring job, and I hope that this website helps lighten your burden. I’ll be sharing pointers, tips, tricks, advice, and comments that have (and will have) helped me to find the breeder that best works for me.
May this site help guide you as you choose the breeder that works for you and your soon-to-be Shih Tzu!
-Tiffani Byrne
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