Arizona Sunrise Shih Tzus & Poos

Purebred Shih Tzu Puppies

Safety

Why Breeders Should Microchip Puppies

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I consider myself a responsible Shih Tzu breeder. All Shih Tzu puppies for sale in my breeding program receive a microchip before they’re sent home. I feel I must do my part in making sure the Shih Tzu puppies are set up for success before leaving my breeding program.

Below are some of the reasons why breeders should microchip puppies before they go to their new homes.

  • Collars break but a microchip is a lifelong internal identification tag.
  • If the puppy ends up in a shelter they can contact the owner.
  • The microchip can prove ownership.
  • A thief is likely to remove a collar but a microchip is thief-proof.
  • The chip is relatively inexpensive.
  • Microchips last up to 25 years.
  • 1 out of every 3 dogs has the probability of becoming lost at some point.

*Make sure to do the following for optimal microchip protection.

  • Make sure to register the chip.
  • Make sure to update your contact information if you move.
  • Ask your vet to scan the chip at visits to make sure it is working properly.

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What Fruits and Veggies Are Safe for Your Dog

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We have all been told that we need to eat our fruits and vegetables to stay healthy at some point in our lives. Well, I am here to tell you that fruits and vegetables are wonderful snacks for dogs on occasion as well! Fruits and vegetables are full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. I know, dogs are omnivores, but a slice of carrot from time to time is a great snack.

Furthermore, most dogs enjoy fruits and veggies on occasion. The Shih Tzu puppies I raise in my responsible breeding program love nothing more than a slice of red bell pepper. Just be sure to remove the skin, seeds, and pits from fruits and veggies before feeding. Also, cut the fruit or veggie into bite-size portions that aren’t likely to cause a choking hazard. Remember to limit portions as well. A large portion may cause gastrointestinal upset.

Always check and make sure that the fruits and vegetables that you offer your pet are safe. Many of the fruits and vegetables that we eat daily are toxic to dogs. For example, a couple of grapes are enough to possibly kill a toy breed dog! Below is a list of some safe and not-so-safe fruit and vegetable options. If you want a more in-depth list, I highly recommend installing an app like PupTox on your phone. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your dog’s health and well-being.

I hope you enjoy browsing the fruit & vegetable lists below. Furthermore, I hope you Shih Tzu enjoy the tasty yet healthy treat. Don’t forget to supervise your pet to avoid a choking incident.

Healthy Fruits and Veggies list

  • Banana
  • Blueberry
  • Strawberry 
  • Watermelon 
  • Cantaloupe 
  • Mango
  • Sweet bell peppers 
  • Carrots
  • Zucchini 
  • Sweet potato 
  • Spinach

Fruits and veggies to avoid

  • Grapes
  • Raisins
  • Currants
  • Tomato
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Avocado
  • Raw/green potato

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Dog Parks and Puppy Socialization

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Shih Tzus are a toy breed. They should avoid dog parks.
A Toy Breed Shih Tzu Puppy

Should I bring my Shih Tzu to the dog park?

It would be awesome if a dog park were a safe place for your Shih Tzu puppy to socialize with other dogs. Unfortunately, there are a lot of risks when it comes to taking your Shih Tzu to a dog park. First of all, puppies should never go to a dog park until their vaccine series is complete. It’s simply not worth the risk. Puppies have a weak immune system and are at a high risk of illness if they spend time with a sick animal on their outing. Also, make sure you talk to your vet about how often to deworm your pet. Parasites are usually more frequent in places where there are a lot of dogs.


The next concern I have is the possibility of your Shih Tzu being bitten by another dog or possibly worse. There are stories on the internet from time to time of these horrible encounters. Furthermore, If your Shih Tzu were to survive a dog attack he or she would probably have long-lasting fear because of the negative experience. All Shih Tzu puppies in my responsible breeding program are taught to be resilient but I cannot control negative experiences that take place after the puppies leave my home.


On a more positive note, there is another option besides a dog park for your Shih Tzu puppy! Invite a friend or family member over who owns a dog that is completely done with puppy shots. Also, make sure that the dog has an even and friendly temperament. Most Shih Tzus are social creatures and will appreciate the company!

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The Lifesaving Puppy Recall

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The Puppy, Puppy, Puppy recall is a lifesaving recall that I use with all of the Shih Tzu puppies in my responsible breeding program. Essentially, when the puppies first start lapping up liquids or puppy food the breeder chants Puppy, Puppy, Puppy. The goal is to imprint the recall into the memory of each puppy. Imprinting is a form of learning that happens during the early stages of a puppy’s development. Over time, the lifesaving recall becomes a permanent part of the puppy’s memory.

When puppy owners bring their new Shih Tzu puppy home they should continue to use the recall a couple times of a week. When the puppy comes after hearing the recall be sure to offer a high reward treat. The end goal is that your Shih Tzu puppy will come to you immediately if he or she is ever in danger simply by hearing those special words…Puppy, Puppy, Puppy! I hope you enjoy the video below that demonstrates me using the Puppy recall. Click on the Instagram Icon at the top or bottom of my website to be redirected to even more educational videos and so much more!

Puppy Recall in Action

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Shih Tzus and Heat Don’t Mix

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Did you know that it is against the law to leave a dog alone in a car in Arizona?

It is unsafe and against the law in Arizona to leave your pet alone in the car if physical injury or death is possible. Brachycephalic breeds such as Shih Tzus, Pugs, and bulldogs are more prone and at an even greater disadvantage and a higher risk of heat stroke. Shih Tzus have a flat face and a delicate respiratory system.

I am sure that you’re already well aware that it gets really hot in Arizona. Be sure to educate yourself on the signs of heat exhaustion to protect your dog. It is our duty as responsible pet owners to keep our animals out of harm’s way.

Some of the major signs of heat exhaustion include the following:

  • Loss of balance
  • Seizures
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Thick saliva
  • Bright red gums
  • A dry mouth and heavy panting.

If your Shih Tzu puppy or adult dog for that matter gets too hot it is important to cool him or her down as soon as possible! Look for some shade or go indoors. Also, offer some water and use a cool washcloth to bring down your pet’s body temperature. It’s also important that you contact your veterinarian for more advice as soon as possible.

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Shih Tzu Safety Tip

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Did you know that the chemicals that we use to melt ice during the winter can be toxic to your Shih Tzu? Make sure to purchase pet-friendly ice-removing products. Also, remember to rinse off your Shih Tzus paws after walking outdoors in the winter. Check out my blog often for more educational tips for your Shih Tzu.

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