Shih Tzu Dogs and Puppies
You are ready to welcome a Shih Tzu dog or puppy into your home and family. Where should you begin? First you will want to find a reputable breeder or a Shih Tzu rescue shelter that specifically rescues Shih Tzu’s. Next, you will begin your journey of finding the perfect fit for you and your family. While every Shih Tzu puppy is adorable, they each have their own unique personality. By breed standards they are kind, friendly, playful dog that has a bit of spunk.
When you visit the reputable breeder or Shih Tzu rescue shelter, you will want to spend time with several of the Shih Tzu’s at the location. While you are visiting Shih Tzu dogs and puppies you will want to take note of their physical appearance and behavior. First you will want to look for a few physical signs.
• Nostrils – The nostrils should be open and clean. It should not have discolored discharge oozing from the nostrils.
• Eyes – The eyes should be clear and lack cloudiness. While normal discharge is clear and fluid like, you will want to take note of any thick or discolored discharge coming out of the eyes.
• Ears – The ears should be clean and lack any odor or discoloration.
• Gums – You will want to carefully check their gums or ask the staff to allow you to see the puppy’s gums. You will want to look for light pink gums. Take note if the gums are dark red or white.
• Legs – When the puppy walks, runs or plays, does he or she whimper, limp or look bowl legged.
• Abdomen – Make sure the abdomen is not severely bloated.
• Tail – The tail should be curled and up.
• Coat – The luxurious coat should be thick and full. Take note if it has patches of baldness or there are lesions on the skin.
• Paws – Gently take a peek at the puppy’s paws. Are they healthy looking? Clear from injury to the paw pads, are the nails in healthy condition or do they appear broken?
• 8 Week Checkup – All reputable breeders bring their Shih Tzu puppies to the veterinarian for their eight week checkup. Inquire with the breeder regarding results and ask if you can see any paper work from the veterinarian office validating that the puppies are healthy.
• Behavior – Finally you will want to focus on the behavior of the puppies. While some may seem a bit more shy or spunky than others, if there are signs of aggression this may be a red flag. Shih Tzu’s are generally a friendly, social breed, aggression is definitely not a natural part of their general personality.
Now that you know what to look for when buying or adopting Shih Tzu dogs and puppies, you will surely choose a healthy, happy puppy to join your family. Always remember that you should take your time choosing your puppy. Do not rush the process. Remember you are looking for signs of health, good energy and playfulness.
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