Choosing a puppy

A healthy, well-raised Shih Tzu puppy looks a lot like any other adorable puppy in a photo. The difference shows up in the paperwork, the parents, and the answers you get when you ask questions. Here is what actually separates a good puppy from a risky one.

• Health testing on both parents

  Ask for proof of a patella (kneecap) check, an eye exam, and an airway or breathing evaluation on the mother and father. Both are common concerns in this brachycephalic breed. A reputable breeder will hand this over without hesitation.
• Age at homecoming, 8 to 10 weeks

  Shih Tzus benefit from extra time with their mother and littermates. Puppies leaving before 8 weeks are more prone to behavior and immune issues later. Walk away from anyone offering a puppy younger than that.
• AKC registration

  A registered litter means the pedigree is on record and the breeding dogs meet a registry's standards. Ask to see the litter registration or the individual puppy's pedigree paperwork.
• A written health guarantee

  This should cover genetic conditions for a defined period, typically one to five years, and spell out what happens if a covered issue shows up. Read it before you pay a deposit, not after.
• A puppy raised in the home

  Puppies raised underfoot in a family living room, exposed to normal household noise and handling, socialize better than puppies raised in an isolated kennel. Ask to video call the puppy in its everyday environment.

• "Teacup" or "micro" Shih Tzus

  There is no official teacup Shih Tzu variety. Breeding for extreme smallness beyond the standard 9 to 16 pounds often means health problems, including worse breathing issues in a breed that already needs careful airway care.
• No health testing records, or vague answers about them

  If a breeder cannot produce actual documents, patella and eye results are not optional extras.
• Multiple litters always available

  A small, careful breeding program has occasional litters, not a constant rotating inventory.
• Payment only by wire transfer or gift card, no contract

  A legitimate breeder uses a written sales contract and standard payment methods.
• Refusal to let you video call or visit

  Reasonable biosecurity limits on in-person visits are normal, but a flat refusal to even video call is a warning sign.