If you’re looking to own a Shih Tzu, one way is to look for Shih Tzu puppies to buy or adopt. Supposing you are attached to and want a specific breed, then you’d best be in touch with a Shih Tzu breeder. That’s because most animal shelters and Shih Tzu rescues mostly take in abandoned or orphaned adult dogs, and rare are puppies of verified genuine bloodlines taken in. If you want to raise puppies yourself, you need to be aware of the possible problems in purchasing a Shih Tzu from a breeder.

1. You might get tricked into purchasing a pup from a dubious breeding line, and probably an unhealthy pup at that. Puppy mills are the cause of some of the non-standard breeding practices, since they breed runt to run to reduce the size of the Shih Tzu, which is already small enough as it is; the results are often unhealthy pups that don’t even resemble the healthy glow and sheen of the coat of Shih Tzu’s that take part in dog shows. You might be shown very cute puppies by breeders claiming extensive background in taking care of and breeding this breed – but don’t be taken in by the salestalk, and also, most dogs are cute when they’re young, and you can’t detect signs of unhealthiness if you’re not a veteran at taking care of this breed. So that you’d get a list of breeders that are most likely legitimate, you want to start by using the referral services or list of recommended breeders on reputable sites – if a breeder is member of a breeding club, you can check his background and talk to people who can vouc h for him.

2. You need to shell out good money when buying legitimately-bred Shih Tzu dogs. This breed does not come cheap, and when you’re particularly attached to a breed, money may not be a stopping point. And that’s one reason – the enthusiasm of pet owners – that puppy mill prey on. After some hunting around for vouched-for breeders, you need to be prepared to part with a sum of money to get the Shih Tzu you love. For example, if you love to enter your toy dog into dog shows, the conformation standards must be adhered to, and for that, only a reputable breeder may do to supply you with the pure breed you need.

3. Raising a Shih Tzu pup can be a challenge if you’re new to this; raising several can be a nightmare. Some dog owners may be surprised how much money it costs to raise a small dog breed. There are check-ups and inoculations and other medical needs. You will need to house-train the pups yourself, or have them trained. That includes sticking to a schedule to let the pups do their peeing and pooping business – such as when they wake up from a nap and right after they eat.

Should you reconsider, remember there are some advantages to having an adult Shih Tzu to a puppy, and of adopting instead of buying a dog. You’re in luck with adult dogs, as they are often already potty-trained; so no more mess to clean up all the time at home, no more potty accidents. Also, you will be helping the shelter or animal rescue take in more orphaned dogs when you adopt from them.

If you’ve already decided you want Shih Tzu puppies, then you need to start getting in touch with reputable breeders. Websites of the bothe the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club usually have links to some recommended breeders of Shih Tzu dogs. Remember that, to avoid puppy mills that neglect dog health when breeding, you want breeders connected to breeding clubs so you can check their backgrounds.