Preparing For A Shih Tzu Puppy

New puppies are always lots of fun. They are adorable, no matter what the breed. Little Shih Tzu puppies are like little balls of fur with personality. They’re lively and energetic, loving and curious.
Planning for your Shih Tzu should begin long before you bring him home. One of the first things to consider is how you will help him adapt to his new environment. Keep in mind that he is used to being with his momma and littermates. Ready or not, you should be willing to spend lots of time with your new baby. That will give him a sense of security and keep him safe.
A visit to your veterinarian is critical. This can be arranged prior to bringing your puppy home. Most breeders guarantee the health of their puppies but they may require that you take your new baby in for a vet visit within 48 – 72 hours of purchase.
Many people use a crate for training purposes. Although I do not suggest that I do suggest that a dog/puppy have a crate or other small space available to call his home. This can be a safe place with comfortable bedding, a toy or two, and even a treat.
Having a few toys on hand for your puppy is important. Talk with the breeder about feeding routines and the appropriate food. Find out if your puppy has been pad trained or has been going outdoors. You may want to continue with whatever he has been learning.
Most breeders will supply a “New Puppy” package. This will usually include a sample of food, instructions, and even a blanket or toy scented with the momma and littermates. That can help make the puppy feel secure in his new home.
Your puppy will need a soft and comfortable place to sleep. Puppies take lots of naps so you may want to have more than one bed; that will allow you to always be close by your new baby. Many owners use a doggie play pen to confine their Shih Tzu puppy. These are available online. They are flexible and are large enough to include room for a bed, a play area, and even a feeding area.
Doggie play pens are wonderful for keeping your puppy safe. Remember that puppies like to chew on things and they usually do not discriminate when it comes to choosing a chew toy. That can get them in a lot of trouble. As a Shih Tzu parent you will want to insure that your puppy is in a place free of electrical cords, poisonous plants, and anything else that could cause him harm.
Shih Tzu are special little dogs and require unique care in a lot of ways. If you own or are planning to add a Shih Tzu to your family you will want to learn the details of how to properly care for your little Fur-baby. You can find all the information you need right here: Just Shih Tzu
http://www.JustShihTzus.com

Think Carefully Before Deciding To Breed Shih Tzu

If you already own a Shih Tzu you know what a wonderful dog they are. Although they are lively and alert they are also content to be by your side, they are the perfect companion.

Shih Tzu are beautiful and their long flowing hair comes in all colors. It’s no wonder that so many of us consider breeding Shih Tzu. After all, having Shih Tzu puppies around is fun, right?

While puppies are fun they are work and a huge responsibility. But we need to back up a little bit. Let’s talk about before the puppies arrive. First of all you will need to find a good match for your Shih Tzu. Size and color must be considered as well as the health of the babies.

Once you believe your female is pregnant you will need to visit your veterinarian for confirmation and a check up. Gestation is 63 days. During that time you will need to properly feed and care for your female. Her diet must be of the highest quality.

Preparation for the puppies before they arrive is essential. You will need to prepare a whelping box. Plastic sweater boxes work well for this. Line the bottom with newspaper and then place a clean blanket (that has been rinsed well with no fabric softener) over the box. You will want to snug this blanket in and tape it on the bottom of the box.

The idea is to have a comfortable spot for momma and babies but to eliminate the possibility of babies getting lost under the blanket. You will need to have a heating pad to keep under one end of the box. The puppies must be kept warm but the momma may want to get away from the heat at times.

You will need to purchase a baby scale for weighing the puppies. Careful documentation of their weight and growth in general is important. Don’t forget about the vaccinations and de-worming of the babies. And keep in mind that you will need to have food available for them when they reach that stage. Another expense is that of puppy pads. Some people use newspaper but the pads are more absorbent and less messy.

I know that sounds like a lot, and it is, but it is all necessary. In fact, there’s more to do. Your puppies will need socialization. That means you will need to spend some quality time with each of them every day. This includes playing with them, stroking them, rubbing their face and feet, and introducing them to new surfaces. You will also want to insure that they are using the puppy pad.

Of course you will have the added task of finding good homes for the babies. This can mean advertisement costs and probably some stressful moments in seeing your babies leave.

Does breeding your Shih Tzu still sound like something you would enjoy? If so then you will need to learn the details of whelping and caring for momma and babies. You can find out that and much more at Just Shih Tzu. Check it out:
http://www.JustShihTzus.com