Arizona Sunrise Shih Tzus & Poos

Purebred Shih Tzu Puppies

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Why Shih Tzu Breeders Should Expose Puppies to Movement

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Are you considering purchasing a puppy from a reputable Shih Tzu breeder anytime soon? If the answer is yes, then this blog post is a must-read for you! I know it is easy to pick up your computer and start the search for available Shih Tzu puppies in your area. But, what if I were to tell you that not all Shih Tzu breeders raise their Shih Tzu puppies in the same fashion? Did you know that puppies that aren’t exposed to proper movement are more likely to be fearful of things that move when they get older?

Helping puppies feel comfortable around movement is an important part of proper puppy socialization. A lot of people looking for a Shih Tzu puppy for sale don’t realize that the most sensitive period in a puppy’s development happens during weeks 3 to 12. Most responsible Shih Tzu breeders have the puppies under their care during most of this time frame. As a result, it is imperative that the Shih Tzu breeder expose the puppies to proper movement protocols to instill confidence and resilience in the impressionable Shih Tzu puppies. In my responsible Shih Tzu Breeding Program all of the puppies are exposed to various forms of movement to help create bulletproof puppies. 

The list below goes over some of the forms of movement my puppies are exposed to before go-home day. 

  • Balls
  • Moving toy cars
  • Toys that move
  • Wobble board
  • Wobble disc
  • Running humans
  • Running dogs
  • Umbrella
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Car ride
  • Stroller ride

It is a common issue for toy breed dogs to be fearful of certain things such as sound, sights, and movement. Fear is a necessary defense mechanism that has a place but sometimes goes into overdrive in our furry companions. Fears and phobias can develop when a puppy or dog has a negative experience. It often only takes one bad experience for a dog to develop a phobia.

Fear can also develop in dogs if they don’t spend time around things that move when they’re going through the critical socialization period. Fear is at an all-time low during this developmental stage. Shih Tzu breeders have the opportunity to imprint a positive association with movement during this critical phase of puppy development. 

Having a dog that is afraid of movement can be very stressful for the dog and the owner. Treating fear in an adult dog is much more time-consuming. After the critical developmental period ends it often takes a lot longer to counter-condition any fear-based behaviors. Some trainers can help but it often takes much longer to see results. Early desensitization is key in preventing fearful behaviors in the first place. Something as simple as running a vacuum cleaner near the puppy playpen a couple of times a week during the critical socialization period may have a positive lifelong influence on a puppy’s future behavioral health. 

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How Much is That Shih Tzu Puppy in the Window

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A newborn female chocolate Shih Tzu puppy for sale in a responsible breeding program.
A Newborn Female Chocolate Shih Tzu Puppy

Are you thinking about bringing home a Shih Tzu puppy?

If your answer is yes, then you need to realize that not all Shih Tzu breeders raise their puppies under desirable standards! Although there are several options on where you can find your dream Shih Tzu puppy, you must work with a responsible Shih Tzu breeder.

Most people usually choose a puppy from a breeder, a pet store, or a rescue-type organization. Let’s start by going over the pros and cons of buying a puppy from a Shih Tzu breeder. First of all, you need to decide what type of Shih Tzu breeder you would like to work with. Do you want a breeder who runs a small program where the puppies and parents live in the home as part of the family? Or, do you prefer to work with a larger kennel-type breeding program where you don’t have to wait as long to get a puppy in the coat color and gender you desire?

Whether you work with a small or large breeding program please make sure the breeder is doing all mandatory health testing for the breed. Furthermore, make sure that the puppies complete proper socialization protocols. Puppies that receive proper socialization that aligns with their developmental benchmarks are usually more resilient in life. 

Most importantly, get to know your Shih Tzu breeder before you commit. There are small and large breeding programs that don’t have the best interest of the puppies at heart. Backyard breeders don’t usually care about breed standards. They may inbreed and puppies often leave the breeding program without ever seeing a veterinarian. Puppies may be sent home with parasites or much worse. 

In my small, responsible Shih Tzu Breeding Program, all of my adult breeding dogs meet mandatory health testing requirements for the breed. Furthermore, all of my Shih Tzu Puppies go through socialization protocols that align with developmental benchmarks. Shih Tzu puppies receive a head-to-toe check by our veterinarian before the go-home day. Most importantly, I provide lifetime breeder support to all my puppy clients. If life circumstances prevent a puppy owner from caring for their Shih Tzu, I will always take back my dogs. This is all part of my job description as a responsible Shih Tzu breeder.

Now let’s move on to the option of purchasing a puppy from a pet store. Pet store puppies often come with a high price tag. Often you only see the cute Shih Tzu puppies for sale from behind a glass window. But, do you know anything at all about the puppy’s living conditions? Often, pet store breeders mass-produce puppies in less-than-ideal conditions. Many times these breeders have a great deal of adult breeding dogs living on the property. 

The adult dogs are sometimes kept in cages their whole life. They never get to sit on a couch or be part of a family. They don’t get the opportunity to experience unconditional love. How could they when they’re confined to a cage most of their day and night? Some of these dogs may never see the outdoors. Their only job is literally to produce puppies. Once they’re done producing puppies they often end up in shelters.

Pet store puppies may have chronic health conditions because the focus is often on profit, not health and quality. These puppies are often sent home far too young. They never get a chance to socialize correctly. These puppies usually make their way to the pet store in a crate all alone on a giant shipping truck. I cannot imagine the fear they must experience on the road trip.

Rescue organizations and shelters are commendable places to purchase a pet. Every dog deserves unconditional love and a family to call their own. Unfortunately, it is often very difficult to find a puppy from a shelter or rescue. Furthermore, a shelter or rescue dog isn’t for everybody. In many situations, it is important to know the temperament of the dog you’re bringing home. For example, if you have mobility issues, you may not want to bring home a high-energy dog that weighs 100 pounds.  Don’t get me wrong, if you adopt from a shelter or rescue you could be saving a dog’s life. I’m just saying that a shelter or rescue dog isn’t the perfect fit for every family. 

Deciding whether to work with a breeder, a pet store, a shelter, or a rescue is a big deal. Bringing home a new puppy comes with a lot of preparation. This includes working with a responsible puppy raiser. It is important that the puppy and his or her parents receive the highest standards of care. Please don’t let the cute Shih Tzu puppy in the window or photo blind you. If the puppy doesn’t receive proper love and care during the most critical period of puppy development lifelong health and behavioral problems may arise. 

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5 Superb Shih Tzu Puppy Training Tips

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Litter of newborn Shih Tzu puppes.

Shih Tzu Puppy Training Tips

Puppy training isn’t always for the faint of heart. Even if you follow all training advice to the tee mistakes are bound to happen. Your new Shih Tzu puppy is a living creature that will learn over time but probably not overnight. Patience and consistency are important when training a puppy for the first time. I have put together a list of tips that I hope make puppy training go smoothly. 

Potty Training

Purchase all of the potty training supplies before your puppy’s arrival. Find out from your breeder what potty training method she or he recommends. Or if you prefer, research potty training techniques and choose one that will fit your family’s lifestyle. Once you choose a potty training method commit to it and be consistent. In the wild puppies relieve themselves wherever they prefer. It is your job to teach your puppy what places are acceptable to go potty.

Spending a lot of time outdoors is helpful if you only want your puppy to potty outdoors. It is often helpful to choose a smaller area in the yard to begin with. If your puppy always goes potty in the same area he or she will start to become familiar with the scent left behind. This will make future potty trips easier. Don’t forget to stock up on treats before your new Shih Tzu puppy comes home. Treats and praise do help to expedite the process. Having a schedule helps as well.

Fun Time

Get ready for playtime! Most Shih Tzu puppies have a great deal of energy. They love a good run around the yard or learning how to fetch. Most puppies also love playing with toys. You can use playtime as training time as well. For instance, before you introduce a new toy have your puppy sit. Once your puppy sits reward him or her with the toy. This is a great way to reinforce positive training. Training doesn’t have to be boring. Try and make it enjoyable and your puppy will look forward to training sessions.

Pay Attention

Focus is extremely important when it comes to training your Shih Tzu puppy. Turning your attention away for a minute or two while your puppy is unattended could spell trouble. It doesn’t take long for a puppy to discover something to chew on. The problem is you may not like it if your puppy chews on your brand-new wooden end table. If you’re not able to give your puppy your undivided attention the puppy must be put in a safe place such as a puppy playpen.

Make bedtime a positive experience

The first few nights may be challenging for your new little one. Mom and littermates are no longer around to snuggle with at bedtime. As a Shih Tzu Breeder, I send all my clients home with a blanket and toy that have mom’s and littermates’ scent. These items can provide a great deal of comfort in the first few weeks while your puppy is still adjusting. A snuggle puppy is another great option because it has a heartbeat that may soothe your puppy. You may also want to consider a night light, soothing music, and putting the puppy’s playpen in your bedroom for the first week or so.

Continue the Socialization Process

All puppies need adequate socialization to get the very best start in life. Hopefully, you’re getting a Shih Tzu puppy from a responsible breeder. As a responsible Shih Tzu Breeder, I raise all of my puppies on a developmentally appropriate curriculum that ensures optimal socialization. I expect my Shih Tzu puppy owners to continue working on socialization once the puppy goes home. Socialization is key to creating a well-rounded puppy. 

It is important to introduce the new puppy to new people, places, and things. Your puppy must always perceive the world as a safe place. Otherwise, fear may set in which is hard to reverse. It is essential to remember to keep your puppy safe from canine diseases at the same time. Most puppies are not done with the puppy vaccination series by the time they head home. This means they’re susceptible to viruses, bacteria, parasites, etc. Some viruses such as Parvovirus can be lethal in young puppies.

The easiest way to socialize your puppy while avoiding disease is to keep all four paws off the floor when out of the home. Buy a puppy stroller and go for a walk around the block. Or invite a fully inoculated dog over for a visit. If family and friends come over to visit the new puppy simply have them leave their shoes at the door out of your puppy’s reach. Also, make sure they wash their hands and haven’t had any contact with any sick animals within a week of the visit. 

There are so many things that your new best friend will need to learn. Fortunately, most puppies are usually eager to learn, especially with the right motivator, such as a tasty treat. Puppy training may seem a little overwhelming at first but hang in there, patience is key to success! Remember to keep it fun and positive and your puppy will most likely be an eager student ready to learn. 

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The Secret to Raising Confident Shih Tzu Puppies

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Shih Tzu puppy curriculum set up including tactile surfaces, a cat bed and toys.
Puppy Curriculum Set Up

Do you want to know the secret to raising a confident Shih Tzu puppy?

Studies have shown that puppies that come from breeders who expose them to a variety of stimuli when young including tactile surfaces are more likely to be confident adults. Do any of you own a Shih Tzu that is fearful of random surfaces? For example, is your Shih Tzu afraid to walk on the hardwood floor? Does your Shih Tzu panic anytime you go on a walk and try to walk through a sandy area? What if I tell you that this phenomenon could be avoided in puppies through a developmentally appropriate puppy curriculum?

So if you’re thinking about purchasing a Shih Tzu puppy you may want to work with a Shih Tzu breeder that understands the significance of puppy socialization. Also, look into your breeder’s credentials. Anyone can say that they socialize the puppies. But this can mean different things to different Shih Tzu breeders.

Proper socialization is essential because a breeder may create fear in the puppies if he or she isn’t working the puppies during the proper developmental periods. Puppies go through fear periods. A responsible breeder will take things easy during fear periods.

When you’re interviewing Shih Tzu breeders ask them what breeder education classes they have taken to date as well. If you want to be more specific, find out if they have taken any specific classes on puppy socialization protocols. I list all of the breeder education courses that I have taken on my website for clients to view.

Introducing puppies to different surfaces helps create confident and resilient Shih Tzu puppies who learn that the world is a safe place. Puppies learn to not fear different tactile experiences through repetitive exposure during the appropriate developmental period. Not all surfaces feel the same to a puppy. A ceramic floor feels different than a carpet. Rocks don’t feel the same as grass. Shih Tzu breeders have the opportunity to instill confidence in these little ones by providing them with socialization opportunities that create confidence.

Some of the surfaces that I expose all of my Shih Tzu puppies to include:

  • Artificial Turf
  • Quartz
  • Rocks
  • Ceramic
  • Hardwood
  • Tactile squares with different bumpy surfaces
  • A ball pit
  • Plastic grates
  • Water

Puppy exposure activities should begin early in life to teach puppies to adapt to new surroundings with minimal anxiety. If your Shih Tzu breeder has begun the socialization process make sure to ask what you can do to continue socializing your puppy once you get home. Most responsible Shih Tzu breeders will be happy to give you suggestions.

A Shih Tzu puppy’s critical period of development starts in the third week of life and goes all the way through week 12. It would be ideal if all Shih Tzu puppies stay with their breeder, mom, and siblings during this crucial stage of development. Shih Tzu Puppies learn so many irreplaceable skills during this period. If you happen to bring your puppy home before this period is over be sure to talk to your breeder about what Socialization opportunities you should implement once home.

Remember to keep all at-home socialization experiences positive for your Shih Tzu puppy. Whenever your puppy works up the courage to try out something new use the marker word, “Yes!” Treat-based rewards help create a positive association as well. Never force your puppy to try something new. But, simply remember to always be your puppy’s biggest fan by encouraging engagement with new things. For example, if your puppy has never spent time on a wooden deck bring some fun toys onto the deck. Encourage your puppy to join in on the fun. Once he or she does praise and treat to make the occasion special. 

To sum things up, please do your homework before searching for Shih Tzu Puppies for sale. It is super easy to find available Shih Tzu puppies but more complex to find Shih Tzu puppies that have had an upbringing that will help maximize their full potential. Ask a lot of questions and get to know your Shih Tzu breeder on a personal level. After all, you’re about to purchase a Shih Tzu puppy that will be spending the next 10-plus years living beside you. If you choose a Shih Tzu Breeder that works hard to instill confidence in the puppies you’re much more likely to have a well-rounded companion animal by your side.

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Preparing your New Shih Tzu Puppy for a Trip to the Veterinarian

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A chocolate Shih Tzu Puppy resting on a blanket. after a visit to the veterinarian.
A chocolate shih Tzu puppy resting on a blanket after vaccinations

Getting a new puppy means a lot of veterinarian visits in the future. It is important that you properly prepare for vet visits to help the process go smoothly for yourself and your new puppy. Most breeders require new puppy owners to have the puppy checked over by a veterinarian within a few days of pick up to activate any type of warranty. Furthermore, not too long after you get your new Shih Tzu home you will probably need to see a veterinarian for booster puppy shots. If you have put preparation plans together in advance the trip to the vet will hopefully run smoothly.

The first thing you need to consider after booking the vet appointment is how to safely get your Shih Tzu puppy to the vet’s office. Puppies like humans need to be secure anytime they’re riding in a moving vehicle. You must purchase a puppy car seat or another type of restraint that will keep your puppy safe while the car is in motion.

They also sell seatbelt tethers that attach to the seatbelt if you prefer not to use a car seat. With this option, you will need to purchase a harness to attach to the seatbelt tether. The harness must fit properly. It is also essential that you don’t attach the tether to a collar under any circumstances. Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic breed. Any pressure or tugging on the collar could harm your Shih Tzus sensitive airway.

The next thing you need to think about is how you will get your Shih Tzu puppy into the vet clinic. You may decide to carry your puppy in your arms. Or you might have your puppy secure in a travel carrier. Another idea is to purchase a dog stroller. This is how I transport the Shih Tzu puppies in my breeding program to the vet clinic. I own a doggy stroller with a detachable base. I use the detachable base as a travel crate to get to and from the clinic. You can simply attach the travel carrier to the stroller base when it is time to go into the clinic. 

The travel stroller concept helps prevent the puppies from having any access to other dogs or the floor. I’m sure you already know that vet clinics are a breeding ground for viruses, bacteria, and parasites. To make matters worse, puppies don’t have fully functional immune systems until they’re much older. Your Shih Tzu puppy must have no contact with animals that may be ill or aren’t up to date on vaccinations. This will hopefully prevent your puppy from getting sick. 

You may also want to think about which vaccines and other preventatives you want your new dog to receive. I have written another post where I dive deeper into the different types of vaccines dogs can receive. Click here to check out the post. At the very least, your puppy needs to receive all core vaccines during puppyhood. Some of the core vaccines include DHPP and Rabies.

Other inoculations such as Leptospirosis and the Rattle Snake vaccine are usually optional. You may also want to consider whether you will be using a monthly heartworm preventative and flea and tick protection. You can ask your veterinarian whether or not you need these additional preventatives depending on where you live and your lifestyle.

I would also take the time to jot down a list of questions before your first visit to the vet. Brainstorm and come up with a list of questions that you feel are important to your new Shih Tzu puppy’s well-being. I have put together a sample list of questions below.

Sample Questions:

  • How often does my Shih Tzu puppy need to come in for a visit?
  • How can I prevent my puppy from getting sick?
  • What vaccines do you recommend my puppy receives?
  • Should I use flea and tick medication? Is it safe?
  • When do I switch my puppy to adult dog food?
  • How should I care for my puppy’s teeth?
  • When is a Shih Tzus fully grown?
  • How much exercise does a Shih Tzu need?
  • What is your after-hours policy?
  • What should I do in case of an emergency if your clinic is closed?

I hope that you now feel a little more confident about your first vet visit after reading this post. If you prepare in advance both you and your new puppy will be more comfortable when the time arrives to go to the clinic. Taking your pet to the vet may not be fun but is necessary to keep your dog healthy. Our animals depend on us to provide them with optimal care throughout their lives. Visits to the vet clinic are part of the equation that will help enhance the overall wellness of your pooch.

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Are Shih Tzus Good Apartment Dwellers

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A Liver Shih Tzu puppy keeping busy with a stuffed Kong.
A liver Shih Tzu puppy enjoying a stuffed Kong

If you’re considering bringing home a Shih Tzu puppy soon you may be wondering if Shih Tzus make good apartment dogs. Many people don’t realize that a Shih Tzu doesn’t need an enormous luxury yard with all the trimmings to be content. According to the AKC, Shih Tzus are a toy breed dog and they don’t require an extensive amount of exercise. As a result, Shih Tzus can be great pets for families that live in apartments. Nowadays more apartments are adopting dog-friendly policies which makes Shih Tzus an ideal apartment companion. 

A Shih Tzu doesn’t need a huge house to be comfortable. But, if you have a large family and other dogs things may get a bit crowded unless your apartment is relatively spacious. If you have a small apartment you can look into space-saving hacks such as hollow end tables that you can tuck a dog bed underneath. Decorative baskets are great places for storing toys for your family pet as well. If you have a balcony this is a bonus. Although Shih Tzus aren’t extremely active, a lot of them love to people-watch outdoors.

You should train your Shih Tzu to use his or her indoor voice if you live in an apartment. Often walls are paper thin in apartment complexes. Most apartment owners aren’t going to be particularly fond of you if your dog is barking all day and night. Dogs often bark out of boredom. Providing your Shih Tzu with interactive toys and enrichment is a good way to occupy your pup’s mind. A stuffed Kong can be a lifesaver! 

Figuring out where your Shih Tzu will eliminate is another dilemma that must be addressed before bringing your Shih Tzu home. If you have a hectic lifestyle an indoor potty system is an option. They have so many different options in today’s market. You can find porch potties, litter boxes for dogs, potty pads with trays, etc. There is also the traditional option of taking your Shih Tzu outdoors for potty breaks if your schedule allows. If not, there are plenty of pet services like Rover ( https://www.rover.com/) that are more than happy to help out. Many pet sitter services will come to your residence and take your dog to the bathroom if necessary. 

A Shih Tzu is a toy breed and doesn’t have the same exercise requirements as a giant breed dog. But, all dogs need some movement to stay fit and healthy. One or two short walks around the neighborhood are usually enough to keep your Shih Tzu satisfied. Walking is also great for warding off the zoomies, especially during the puppy phase. Playing indoors with your Shih Tzu is also a great way to burn off energy. Getting some fresh air on the balcony is a bonus if you have one.

If you live in an apartment and are on the fence about getting a dog, consider the lovely Shih Tzu. The Shih Tzu’s small size and lower-than-average exercise demands make them ideal apartment dogs whether you live in the city or the suburbs. As long as you teach your dog proper manners and map out a potty and exercise schedule things should go smooth sailing. But before you hop on the internet and start searching for Shih Tzu puppies for sale make sure that you read your apartment pet policy in detail. Some apartments have pet restrictions and additional pet fees.

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