Take your time when buying a Shih Tzu puppy.
Originating in China, the Shih Tzu literally translates to "lion dog" in Mandarin. It is thought that the Shih Tzu emerged from crossing the Lhasa Apso breed with the Pekingese in China during the seventeenth century. A favorite in the royal Chinese courts, owners jealously guarded the breed so common people could not own them. Introduced to America and Britain in the twentieth century, Shih Tzu dogs are now a favored breed. Prepare your home for a Shih Tzu by thoroughly researching the breed and purchasing necessary items.
Instructions
1. Prepare your home for a Shih Tzu puppy by alotting a room or space for use. If needed, set up gates to restrict free roam. Shih Tzus are small dogs that rarely need a huge space to run around. As young pups, however, they are full of energy and require constant walks and attention. Prepare yourself to encounter accidents from your puppy in the home. Minimize occurrences with outdoor access and potty pads at night. Puppies of all breeds do much better with discipline and knowing their place in the pack. Establish this early with the puppy to avoid temperament problems later.
2. Plan your budget to include a new Shih Tzu puppy. New pets require items such as bowls, leashes, vaccines, beds and food. This breed loves to be social, so if you have a demanding job that requires most of your time, consider dog sitting and dog walking expenses into your budget.
3. Contact a Shih Tzu rescue group or shelter for available Shih Tzus. These groups take Shih Tzu adults, as well as puppies, and place them in loving homes. A nominal adoption fee for medical expenses and shelter apply. The shelter staff will interview you to determine your compatibility with the selected dog. If you are unable to find a Shih Tzu that suits your personality, consider a breeder.
4. Ask your local veterinarian or search online for a referral to a reputable Shih Tzu breeder. Ensure the breeder you choose is not selling the puppies purely for profit. Reputable breeders have a genuine affinity towards a breed. For example, a legitimate breeder will let your tour their facilities to evaluate their living arrangements and will provide the necessary medical paperwork prior to adoption.
5. Avoid puppy mills and backyard breeders, as they are only interested in profits and usually at the dog's expense. They are unaware of defects or potential complications emerging later on in life and house their animals in horrible conditions.
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