What to Look for when Choosing the Right Shih Tzu Breeder

As these breed are easy to cross and easy to grow, there are a good number of breeders around. Some of them are quality breeders, but for them ‘quality’ is only concerned with the health of the puppies and the mother. They do not mind if the puppies are a result of inbreeding, or they have mixed parentage (Shih Tzu and other toy dogs – i.e. Pekingese for example). These breeders will be in the breeding profession from the business angle, not the joy of perpetuating this wonderful breed.

Beware! There Are More “Quality” Breeders Than Genuine Breeders!

Here the quality is in inverted commas, because it does not really refer to the breed but the health and overall well being of the puppy. You will definitely get a toy breed puppy, often very similar to the Shih Tzu – however, it will not be a purebred.

The right Shih Tzu breeder will have certificates to prove the lineage of the mother and father of the puppies and at least one generation before them. The certificates should be from renowned national kennel clubs – and not regional or local ones. The local kennels are not so strict in manning the lineage of the breed. The AKC will require to have proved six generations lineage before entering the name of the Shih Tzu as pure breed.

You will need to see and verify that both the dam and the father had been vaccinated as per the requirements (this will also show that the animals are cared for) and they have the standard medical certificates against possible genetic defects.

The Poo (which is a mix between a Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso or poodles) has become a very popular trend. However, the right Shih Tzu breeder would never dream of mixing breeds. They will always advise you that if you want to mix breed you could always use the services of a rescue or shelter house.

You will never hear terms such as ‘tea-cup’, ‘imperial’ or ‘miniature’ Shih Tzu if you have chosen the right Shih Tzu breeder. They will be too proud about their purebred dogs and will never demean the breed with the miniature Shih Tzu (which is in fact a dog with defective genes). The Shih Tzu breeder dogs will not deviate from the standards registered with the AKC. These dogs are very beautiful indeed, but they are very sickly and you will end up with unending visits to the veterinary. No self-respecting Shih Tzu breeder will ever condone or indulge in such practices.

The right Shih Tzu puppies are great looking powder puffs, which will fill you with delight and joy. Ensure that you choose well.

Attention: To discover how YOU can have the Happiest, Healthiest and Best Behaved Shih Tzu, get a copy of this Shih Tzu Guide NOW!