How to spot quality when looking for a Shih Tzu puppy?  

We firmly believe that quality comes at a price, and our breeding program reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence in every aspect. From carefully selecting our parent dogs based on health, temperament, and conformation to providing round-the-clock care for our puppies from birth, we spare no expense in ensuring that every aspect of our breeding program is of the highest standard. Our investment in top-quality nutrition, veterinary care, and socialization contributes to the superior quality of our Shih Tzu puppies. Additionally, our dedication to preserving and improving the breed's integrity through responsible breeding practices is reflected in the price of our puppies. By choosing our breeding program, you're not just investing in a puppy – you're investing in the assurance of a healthy, well-bred companion who will bring joy and happiness to your family for years to come.At our breeding facility, we take immense pride in being recognized as the premier breeders of Shih Tzu. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a genuine love for the breed, we go above and beyond to ensure that each puppy we produce is of the highest quality.

​Our breeding program is founded on a dedication to preserving the integrity of the Shih Tzu breed, adhering strictly to breed standards while also striving to improve upon them with each generation. We carefully select our parent dogs based on health, temperament, and conformation, ensuring that only the finest representatives of the breed contribute to our breeding program. From the moment our puppies are born, they receive round-the-clock care and attention, providing them with the best possible start in life. Our puppies are raised in a loving and nurturing environment, surrounded by our family and socialized from an early age to ensure they grow into well-adjusted and confident companions. With our unwavering commitment to producing healthy, happy, and well-bred Shih Tzu puppies, we are proud to be recognized as the top choice for discerning families seeking the perfect furry addition to their home. 
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Spotting quality in Shih Tzu puppies can be challenging for individuals and families who aren't seasoned breeders. That's why we've crafted this page to guide you in recognizing the hallmark signs of quality in our Shih Tzus. By understanding what sets apart a top-notch Shih Tzu, you'll gain insight into why we price our puppies accordingly. If you're seeking that quintessential Chinese royal Shih Tzu aesthetic, you're in the right place. Read on to discover the key characteristics that distinguish these regal companions, revered for their heritage and esteemed place in temple life.

Newborn Head Shape

At Little Red Shih Tzu, we adhere to the highest standards of Shih Tzu breeding, ensuring that our newborn puppies exhibit the quintessential characteristics of the breed from the moment they enter the world. A hallmark trait of a quality Shih Tzu is the distinctive golf ball head shape, characterized by a well-rounded cranial structure with minimal visible snout or muzzle. To provide our clients with a clear understanding of this defining feature, we have included3-weeks old to 5-week-old photos for reference, allowing prospective owners to witness the development of this characteristic over time. Furthermore, when evaluating the parents of our puppies, we encourage potential buyers to utilize a simple yet effective technique: using the thumb finger to gauge the depth of the nose. Ideally, the depth of the nose should not extend beyond the length of the thumb, ensuring that the offspring inherit the desired facial structure consistent with the breed standard. By prioritizing meticulous attention to detail and providing comprehensive guidance throughout the selection process, we empower our clients to make informed decisions and welcome a Shih Tzu puppy that embodies the epitome of excellence and authenticity.

Tail Curl 

Around the 5-6 week mark, Shih Tzu puppies typically begin to exhibit a distinctive tail curl, a characteristic trait that discerning buyers should watch for when selecting a puppy. Unlike some breeds with docked tails, Shih Tzus naturally possess tails that set high on their backs, adorned with a luxuriant plume of hair in accordance with AKC breed standard guidelines. It's important to note that while the tail should carry a graceful curve over the back of the adult, it should not resemble the circled loop commonly associated with pug tails. Instead, Shih Tzus boast a singular curve in the tail, elegantly arching high over the back, contributing to their overall regal appearance and breed-specific charm. By paying attention to these subtle yet significant details, prospective owners can ensure they select a Shih Tzu puppy that embodies the breed's distinctive beauty and elegance.

The Size of Quality Shih Tzu

The size of our meticulously bred Quality Shih Tzu presents an ideal match for households with children, offering a delightful combination of robustness for play and manageability for easy handling. With the Shih Tzu standard weight typically falling within the range of 9-16 pounds,  our puppies can range  4-12 lbs mark. It's important to note that Shih Tzu sizes can vary among different lines, with some leaning towards smaller dimensions and others towards larger builds. Given our preference for Shih Tzus on the lighter end of the scale, we exercise caution by retaining them in our care for an extended period, allowing them ample time to reach their full potential size before transitioning to their forever homes. This deliberate approach not only ensures that our puppies grow into healthy, well-developed adults but also provides prospective owners with the assurance of acquiring a Shih Tzu perfectly tailored to their lifestyle and preferences.

Imperial Shih Tzu

The Imperial Shih Tzu, often regarded as a smaller variant of the standard Shih Tzu breed, embodies all the charm and elegance of its larger counterparts in a more petite package. Renowned for their diminutive size and exquisite features, Imperial Shih Tzus are cherished for their compact yet sturdy build, typically weighing between 3-9 pounds. Despite their smaller stature, they exude a regal presence and carry themselves with confidence and grace. With their hallmark flat faces, expressive eyes, and flowing double coats, Imperial Shih Tzus captivate hearts with their irresistible charm and undeniable beauty. While they may be small in size, they possess boundless energy and a playful demeanor, making them delightful companions for families and individuals alike. Whether lounging on a lap or trotting alongside their owners, Imperial Shih Tzus exude an air of sophistication and charisma that is simply unmatched. With their endearing personality and unwavering loyalty, these little companions leave an indelible mark on the hearts of all who have the pleasure of welcoming them into their lives.

Coats

Shih Tzu coats and colors are as diverse and enchanting as the breed itself, offering a rich tapestry of hues and textures that captivate the eye. Renowned for their luxurious double coats, Shih Tzus boast a soft, dense undercoat and a long, flowing topcoat that exudes elegance and charm. Their coats come in a wide array of colors, ranging from classic shades of gold, black, and white to more exotic variations such as silver, blue, and liver. Some Shih Tzus feature striking patterns or markings, including brindle, sable, and parti-color, adding an extra layer of uniqueness and character to their appearance. As they age, Shih Tzu coats may undergo subtle changes in color and texture, further enhancing their beauty and individuality. Whether sporting a solid color or a multi-colored coat, each Shih Tzu's unique combination of hues and patterns reflects the breed's diverse genetic heritage and contributes to their timeless allure.

Key factors when adopting?

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When discerning the ideal features in a Shih Tzu, it's imperative to conduct a thorough assessment that extends beyond mere aesthetics. While observing the parents photos this can offer valuable insights into potential traits, paying close attention to specific physical attributes such as the compressed muzzle and flat snout is essential. A hallmark of quality Shih Tzus, a flat face distinguishes them from breeds like Pomeranians or Yorkies, which typically exhibit longer snouts. The presence of a compressed muzzle serves as a vital indicator of breed authenticity and overall quality. Additionally, ensuring that the tail boasts a graceful curl and examining the quality of the coat are crucial steps in evaluating a Shih Tzu's standard conformity. It's important to recognize that not all Shih Tzus are created equal; while AKC registration may suggest pedigree, it does not guarantee breeding for quality. In contrast, our commitment to excellence is evident in our breeding practices, as we prioritize genetic diversity and refrain from inbreeding. With our guiding principle of "breeding the best and leaving inbreeding to the rest," we ensure that each Shih Tzu we produce embodies the epitome of the breed standard. By dedicating time and attention to assessing both lineage and physical traits, prospective owners can secure a quality Shih Tzu that not only meets but exceeds their expectations. Wishing you the best of luck in finding your perfect furry companion!

​The Greene Family

Please don't be scammed

When navigating the process of purchasing a dog from a breeder, it's crucial to exercise caution and vigilance to avoid falling victim to scams. One of the most effective ways to safeguard against scams is to thoroughly research and vet potential breeders before making any commitments. Start by verifying the legitimacy of the breeder's business through reputable sources such as matching facebook, matching Instagram, logos on photos, matching website name,  references, or online reviews. Additionally, request to see documentation of health clearances, photos, video chats, puppy videos, and vaccination records for the puppies to ensure transparency and accountability. Beware of breeders who are unwilling to provide such information or who pressure you into making hasty decisions. Furthermore, be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as scammers often use enticingly low prices to lure unsuspecting buyers. Finally, trust your instincts and avoid transactions that make you feel uncomfortable or uncertain. By remaining diligent and discerning throughout the process, you can mitigate the risk of falling prey to fraudulent breeders and ensure a safe and successful adoption experience for you and your future furry companion.