If you are looking for your first Shih Tzu puppy, the absolute best place for you to look for Shih Tzu puppies for sale is with AKC licensed Shih Tzu breeders. Not only will you get a Shih Tzu puppy that is healthy, sane and under warranty, but you also get access to the advice of the Shih Tzu breeder. They have lived with Shih Tzus a long time and know the quirks of this independent but loyal breed. If you have never had a Shih Tzu before – let alone a Shih Tzu puppy – then the support from the Shih Tzu breeder will be worth every penny.

You can search on the Internet or information from the American Kennel Club (AKC) to find Shih Tzu puppies for sale in your area. Since Shih Tzus are the ninth most popular breed in America (according to the AKC), you should have no problem finding a reputable Shih Tzu breeder around where you live.
You still will have to pay a three-figure adoption fee from Shih Tzu rescues, and you might not get papers with the pup. If you have never had a dog before, you don’t need to be taking on a second-hand puppy. Your best bet is with the American Kennel Club licensed breeders in your area. Either route you take, getting a pup will not be a quick process. Expect a few weeks to pass, unless the breeder just happens to have puppies for sale.

Shih Tzu puppies for sale or for adoption fees should have the same characteristics wherever you go to choose them. They should be bouncy, outgoing and curious about everything that goes on. They should smell somewhat like sweet milk. They should have clear eyes, a nose free of any discharge and not have any diarrhea stains around the anal region. If a puppy is cowering in the corner, this is usually a sign of a sickness.
When you do find the rightShih Tzu puppies for sale expect to be quizzed thoroughly by the breeder or shelter worker about your knowledge of Shih Tzus and Shih Tzu puppy care. You might have to have your home inspected, or fill out a stack of paperwork, or even give personal references. This is because breeders want to be sure you know what you are getting into so the dog will not wind up abandoned. And the animal shelters don’t want the puppy to come back.

The biggest reason dogs and older puppies are abandoned is that their owners did not take the time to find out about the breed. Someone who buys a Shih Tzu puppy for sale and wants a dog that doesn’t have to be brushed or trimmed often is in for a big shock. A Shih Tzu breeder or rescue shelter will let you know right away that the time to grooming Shih Tzus is intense. With a breeder or shelter, you will not only know what you are getting in for, but you should be allowed to call them with questions whenever you need to.
Knowing where to find the bestShih Tzu puppies for sale hopefully will mean there will be a lot less Shih Tzus in shelters. Find a good book with a detailed section onShih Tzu puppy care before you begin your search for a dog.