Eight Tips to Buy Shih Tzu Puppies of Quality - Every Time
Choosing a Shih Tzu puppy is not as easy as it sounds. Only those dog lovers who have stood over the basket of cuteness can tell you how hard it is to point your finger and say that one! Despite the cost which can be in thousands of dollars, many buyers still use the how adorable measure to choose their puppy and if you simply want a loving companion and the breeder is a reputable one, that is fine.
It is important to try and keep focused when picking out your new pet. Dog owners who are experienced and intend to show their dog will approach the situation differently and if you want to avoid behavioral problems or excessive veterinarian bills you should take a leaf out of their book.
Here are eight tips to help you choose your puppy.
1. Do not choose your puppy too early. This is the most important point. There may be pressure from the breeder to choose as soon as the litter is born, but try to resist. It is very hard to see the markings and notice defects until a Shih Tzu pup is at least two months old. You will want to see them when their eyes are open as the large dark eyes are probably the most characteristic quality of a Shih Tzu. The face will be better formed and you will be able to check the length and shape of the nose and other important characteristics. At this age it is also possible to check the teeth that are coming through. Make sure there are six at the top and bottom.
2. Get photographs of a best of breed. It is very hard to remember all the points that make a perfectly formed Shih Tzu. The simplest way is to take a photograph of a prizewinner that show the Shih Tzu from all angles and either memorize the main points or take the pictures with you.
3. Look for a lively and friendly puppy. Naturally you will want a Shih Tzu that is lively and friendly so the little one that bounds up to you or sucks your finger is not a bad first guide.
4. Do not confuse a bony body with a dainty body. Shih Tzu are naturally small but this does not mean emaciated. The stomach should not bulge and his coat should be soft and naturally glossy.
5. Check the pup's eyes, ears and nose for any signs of irritation or discharge. The eyes should be clear, bright and track movement.
6. Smell the pup's breath. Any foul odor could be a sign of digestive or other serious health issues.
7. Watch the pup's behavior. Make sure there is no serious scratching, head shaking or shivering. At two months a Shih Tzu pup should be a lively happy animal with a clearly defined expressive face.
8. Be prepared to say no. The hardest rule to learn when buying a puppy, especially a Shih Tzu is the walking away rule. This is hard for even the most experienced buyers and your reason for refusing the animals on offer will be determined by you reason for wanting a Shih Tzu in the first place.
A narrow forehead or slightly short fore legs may be the reason a serious prize winning trainer will reject a Shih Tzu, but flaws can make a dog look even more adorable to someone who wants a loving pet. Aesthetic points are important, but your main consideration should be health and temperament.
It is important to try and keep focused when picking out your new pet. Dog owners who are experienced and intend to show their dog will approach the situation differently and if you want to avoid behavioral problems or excessive veterinarian bills you should take a leaf out of their book.
Here are eight tips to help you choose your puppy.
1. Do not choose your puppy too early. This is the most important point. There may be pressure from the breeder to choose as soon as the litter is born, but try to resist. It is very hard to see the markings and notice defects until a Shih Tzu pup is at least two months old. You will want to see them when their eyes are open as the large dark eyes are probably the most characteristic quality of a Shih Tzu. The face will be better formed and you will be able to check the length and shape of the nose and other important characteristics. At this age it is also possible to check the teeth that are coming through. Make sure there are six at the top and bottom.
2. Get photographs of a best of breed. It is very hard to remember all the points that make a perfectly formed Shih Tzu. The simplest way is to take a photograph of a prizewinner that show the Shih Tzu from all angles and either memorize the main points or take the pictures with you.
3. Look for a lively and friendly puppy. Naturally you will want a Shih Tzu that is lively and friendly so the little one that bounds up to you or sucks your finger is not a bad first guide.
4. Do not confuse a bony body with a dainty body. Shih Tzu are naturally small but this does not mean emaciated. The stomach should not bulge and his coat should be soft and naturally glossy.
5. Check the pup's eyes, ears and nose for any signs of irritation or discharge. The eyes should be clear, bright and track movement.
6. Smell the pup's breath. Any foul odor could be a sign of digestive or other serious health issues.
7. Watch the pup's behavior. Make sure there is no serious scratching, head shaking or shivering. At two months a Shih Tzu pup should be a lively happy animal with a clearly defined expressive face.
8. Be prepared to say no. The hardest rule to learn when buying a puppy, especially a Shih Tzu is the walking away rule. This is hard for even the most experienced buyers and your reason for refusing the animals on offer will be determined by you reason for wanting a Shih Tzu in the first place.
A narrow forehead or slightly short fore legs may be the reason a serious prize winning trainer will reject a Shih Tzu, but flaws can make a dog look even more adorable to someone who wants a loving pet. Aesthetic points are important, but your main consideration should be health and temperament.
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