Quick and Simple Answers
The Georgia Shih Tzu
Sheralyn Milton 678-546-0186
~ WELCOME ~ Recommendations & Referrals About the Shih Tzu Education:
~ Meet My Kennel
~ Join Toto's Harem
~ Historic Puppies
~ Meet the Breeder ~
~ Puppy Nursery
~ Rescue & Adoptions
~ The Dog Hotel ~
~ Other Shih Tzu Breeders
~ Veterinarians & Hospitals
~ My Favorite Pet Sites ~
~ A Bonny Breed
~ In The Beginning
~ The Shih Tzu Standard
~ Shih Tzu & Children
~ Wealth of Color
~ Concerning Health ~
On Buying & Owning
~ Simple Questions; Simple Answers
~ Understanding Gibberish
~ Choosing Male or Female
~ Buying a Best Friend ~
~ The Joy of Rescue
~ Surviving Puppyhood
~ Potty Training
~ Grooming: Don't Panic ~
On Breeding & Raising
~ Breeding Unriddled
~ Studding Your Stud
~ Whelping Help ~
~ Orphaned & Ignored Pups
~ Litter Care
~ Finding Homes
~ Healthy Breeding ~
On Health
~ Allergies
~ Second Hand Smoke
~ Stressed Out
~ Anger Management
~ Relief From Pests
~ The Parvo Virus
~ Home Remedies ~
Quick and Simple Answers
Last Modified: 1/16/08
Do you sell puppies?
Yes, you may visit my Puppy Nursery or Rescue & Adoptions.
What is a backyard breeder?
I cannot say it enough, do not judge. A backyard breeder is one who only breeds for money, keeps their dogs in poor conditions, feeds them poor diets, obviously is hiding something from you, and generally breeds without care towards the animals.
What makes a good breeder?
Short version? Someone who cares deeply about their dogs, makes choices that benefit the dog's welfare, cares about the homes they go to, keeps them clean, feeds them well, tells the truth and allows buyers to see where dogs live, eat, groom and play. A good breeder encourages buyers to take new puppies to the vet and will answer questions without offense given or taken.
Is it better to buy a male or a female?
One is not better than the other. One is not easier, calmer, nicer, friendlier, happier, gentler or whatever else- better than the other. It all depends upon the individual puppy's personality.
Why are females generally more expensive?
Many breeders will charge more for a female, because females seem to sell better than males and it is believed that, if breeding, females will make the owner more money. It is also thought they are easier to train and have a better temperament. None are true, but the general opinion molds the market.
How do I know if I am choosing the right puppy?
If you feel a special connection with a puppy then it is a good choice, if there is no connection, then walk away. Choosing a puppy is all instinct.
Is a puppy with registration better than one without?
If that is the only factor, no. Registration does not make a dog healthier, nicer, better bred, or... well... better.
Is one registration better than another?
Yes and No. If you are getting a pet, no. It does not matter if your pet is registered if you will not or cannot take advantage of the benefits. Registries can help to weed out bad breeders, but there are bad members of AKC and good members of other registries.
In the USA, if breeding (my opinion!), AKC is preferable. AKC works harder to stop fraud and carries the best reputation. If AKC is not possible, for any reason, use CKC. Stay away from everything else.
Why does it cost more to buy an AKC puppy?
It is more expensive, in most cases, because AKC is costly. Breeders have to cover costs as best they can. They spend time and money in care and proving purity. AKC dogs can carry champions in their family tree that have seniority over CKC champions. Some breeders may hide behind the label to gain money, but you have to rely on instinct to see through them.
Can I negotiate the price of the puppy I want to buy?
Unless the breeder clearly states the possibility in the ad, please don't. Most breeders are offended by negotiations because of the work, time, stress, fatigue, death, illness, and cost that has gone into those puppies. Be kind. Buying an adult is a different story. If the owner needs to find the dog a home it does not hurt to ask.
What is DNA certification and how does it work?
DNA is rubbed from the dog's mouth with a cotton swab and tested to determine parentage. The dog is certified if testing proves he is pure bred and descendant from the claimed parents.
Is it okay to give my child a puppy?
If your child is under 18 yrs, no. They are not available or mature enough to give a dog the care required. Shih Tzu need one owner, the primary care giver, and if that cannot be you or another adult, don't get a dog. There are extenuating circumstances, but for the rest of us, no.
Is it better to own 2 males, 2 females or one of both?
If looking for pets, it does not matter. If you fall in love with two Shih Tzu then, well.... spay/neuter. The only foreseeable problem, if breeding; two unnuetered males will fight and kill for supremacy in the presence of an unspayed, in- heat female.
Why won't Shih Tzu breeders allow me to buy a dog if I smoke?
Good Shih Tzu Breeders know that Shih Tzu have pinched nostrils and have trouble breathing even clean air. They need to be treated as asthmatics, in which a good owner would ensure their dog has clean air to breathe. Smoke makes the air too thick for them to get a good breath and, whether or not you like it and regardless of the lack of "scientific proof", second hand smoke is a health risk. A good pet owner puts their dog's health before their own addictions.
Can I have a puppy even though I work away from home?
Puppies need to potty 4 times a day, have abundant attention and love. If he is alone more than 4 hours a day or 3 days a week, please allow him to go to a home where he will get what he needs.
Are Shih Tzu hypoallergenic?
Absolutely not. It is impossible for a living thing to be hypoallergenic. Shih Tzu are popular for allergy sufferers, because their hair is closest of all animals to human hair. It is rare to be allergic to them, but not impossible.
Can I still own a Shih Tzu if I don't have a yard?
Absolutely! Shih Tzu do not require a yard to run around for exersize. They need only to following you everywhere and get under foot.
What is the difference in training a male and a female?
When puppies, there is no difference. When males hit puberty and mark inside, reintroduce your original potty training. If you are firm they will have the idea in a day or two. Beware: I have seen a female mark.
Are puppy pads a good training tool?
No. Once you tell a Shih Tzu it is okay to pee on the floor of your home you have lost. Do not expect it to be easy to correct.
Can I litter box train my dog?
Yes. Use the same method for going outside. Take him to the litter box instead. PS.. watch to be sure he does not eat his poop.
Why does my puppy eat his waste; how do I stop him?
It is there; it is a behavior problem. Take him potty on his leash and when he goes move back, barely out of reach, and wait. When he moves to the poop give him a quick, short, hard tug (don't hurt him) and say no. Keep doing it until he walks away on his own. Continue until he relieves himself and walks away.
Is crate training cruelty or necessity?
Crate are not cruel. Dogs require their own cave- like space for retreat when the world is too loud, stressful, or busy. He will retire when tired or scared. Depriving him is cruelty.
How do I stop my puppy peeing in the house?
Whether peeing after going out or refusing to pee unless inside, visit Potty Training to read about proper training techniques. There is no quick or easy answer.
How do I stop my dog from biting?
How did he start? If you play with your fingers, stop. If you play too rough; stop. If he seems aggressive for none of these reasons, visit Anger Management to learn how to correct his behavior. If you still have trouble, email me.
Why won't my puppy sleep in his crate?
Check that he is not in a draft and the crate is not on a hard floor. Supply warm bedding and a stuffed animal (baby safe) to cuddle. Cover the crate with a sheet/blanket or move to a less active room. Check to see if he has to potty. If he has never seen a crate, you have to train him. For training tips, email me.
Can I train my puppy to tell me when he has to go out?
Once you have him going out and old enough to hold it, take him to the door and get excited. When you get the desired reaction let him out. Next time get excited and wait until he gives the same reaction. Continue until he learns.
Is spanking my dog good or bad discipline?
Never hit your dog. They become afraid rather than obedient.
Why is my dog mounting his toys or other dogs?
A puppy mounting his toys is exerting dominance over his toys. Normal, but obnoxious. Neutering will stop it, but if breeding him, treat as a disciplinary problem. If it is obviously sexual, discipline him. One adult mounting another when neither is in heat, usually females, is dominance.
Why is my dog scared?
The reaction could be over-stimulation, rough play, over- sensitivity, someone untrustworthy is close, he has been hurt, or he is really tired and needs a break.
Does a Shih Tzu need to be exersized?
No, they need to follow you everywhere and get under foot. Few puppies have an overabundance of energy and a walk would not hurt. Do not be afraid to walk him, but do not push when he is tired.
Why does my puppy sound like he is having trouble breathing?
He is having trouble. Do not worry if he is breathing and has energy to play. He will take small breaks and play again. It is called pinched nostrils and is common in the breed. Visit Surviving Puppyhood for more information.
How often do Shih Tzu eat?
Constant access to food is recommended. It is not good to monitor their intake unless he has severe training problems or is overweight.
How do I stop my dog from snorting?
He will snort. Give him water in a bottle rather than a bowl. You need to teach him how to use it, but you will be surprised by the difference.
Why do you and others recommend a water bottle?
Cleaner- no water drips on the floor, Sanitary- no moldy bowls and less snorting, sneezing, sniffling or snoring. In extreme cases, no more breathing treatments because they snort water. Boy, I was hooked at cleaner!
Are table scraps really so bad?
Yes. His stomach is not like yours. Feeding him scraps leads to picky eaters, development of heart, lung or kidney problems, bad behavior, and really bad feces. The only exceptions are eggs and cheese, which I only recommend for a rare treat, pregnant bitches or as recommended by your vet for supplement. I exclude raw diets.
Can I feed my dog something other than dog food and treats?
Yes: eggs and cheese, but the cheese must be real (no processed) and as an occasional treat. If you want their diet to be something other than dog food, switch to a raw diet.
Why hasn't my puppy pooped?
He is not eating or he is constipated. If the first, find out why he is not eating. If the second, and he is still active, give him olive oil. If he is weaker than normal get to a vet.
Is the junk in my dog's eye an infection?
Depends on the color. If green or cloudy, yes, get to a vet. If clear, it is normal drainage and can be stopped with a carrot everyday. If your dog won't eat carrots, keep wiping his eyes. Nothing else works.
My puppy has a bubble under his neck and had his shots recently, is that normal?
Yes. If he scratches apply bag balm; found at Walmart and hay/feed stores.
What are all the shots my puppy is getting?
The base includes vaccines for: parvo affects the stomach causing severe diarrhea and vomiting- caught from contact with infected feces or from anyone in contact with an infected dog, distemper affects the respiratory system, parainfluenza a form of kennel cough- also respiratory and adenovirus 1 known as hepatitis and adenovirus 2 another form of kennel cough. Rabies, which attacks the brain, is required by law in many states. Excess vaccines are for coronavirus which looks like parvo- can be caught in conjunction with all others, leptospiris which is bacterial and caught from contaminated water, bordetella also bacterial- another form of kennel cough- may be caught in conjunction with other respiratory diseases and borreliosis or lyme disease- caught from ticks.
Why does my dog eat grass?
It is there, they are a little nauseous, they developed a taste for it or they need a vet. It is rarely a problem, but if your dog is acting differently it is a problem. If you don't mind, keep chemicals out of the yard or you will slowly kill your dog.
If my dog never leaves home why should I have him/her neutered/spayed?
You cannot promise your dog will never run off unless they are permenantly in a cage which is cruel. Females who are never spayed and never bred can develop ulcers and cancer. Males who are never neutered can turn aggressive with psychotic behavior and also cancer. Keyword is "can". It is probable, but not a promise.
Can I give my puppy newspaper to sleep on?
No, he will eat it, his feces and pee. If you don't want to deal with a bed or blanket get old towels, they are easy to change and easy to wash.
When should I take my new puppy to the vet?
Immediately. No matter how much you trust the person you received your dog from, it is safer to check for any problems that have been missed/lied about. It is a great opportunity for your vet meet your new dog for future reference and interview prospective vets.
How do I know my dog has Parvo?
If your dog has constant diarrhea, constant vomiting, both, is weak, smells really odd and or refuses to eat, run to the vet.
How do I choose a vet?
You need to be able trust your vet as well as stand up to them. If you cannot politely disagree and still be comfortable, find another vet. They should care about your pet, but understand you are with them on a daily basis.
When should I get another vet's opinion?
When your vet gives you a diagnosis you do not agree with, makes you uncomfortable, brings up too many questions or your dog requires a procedure that makes your vet uncomfortable or makes you uncomfortable.
When can I take my puppy to a groomer?
When the groomer is comfortable with him and when you feel you are comfortable with letting him go.
Can I trust a groomer?
That depends. I don't unless they allow me to stand close while they work. Mobile groomers groom in your home or from a vehicle where you can be close. Too many dogs are hurt by groomers, even those at the vet.
Why does my puppy hate to be groomed?
They are really young and not used to the experience and need to be trained. Otherwise, it is because a groomer has hurt them. Find another groomer or learn to do it yourself.
How do I clean tear stains?
The eye discharge can be stopped by feeding your dog a carrot everyday. If he won't eat carrots, keep wiping since nothing else works.
What if I want a Shih Tzu, but cannot handle the hair?
Do not cut the ears too short or touch the tail and he will look good in many different cuts. Be very specific if you are using a groomer or they will not give you what you want.
How often can I bathe my dog?
Not more than every other week unless you have to.
Can I shave my dog with human clippers?
No, human clippers are not made to shave through the dense coat of a dog and will pull their coat rather than cut.
How do I keep waste off my puppy's bottom?
Clip his bottom with scissors or clippers, if you are comfortable, or have a groomer do so.
Does the Shih Tzu like other animals?
Yes. A well socialized dog will want to be friends with everyone.
Can I have a Shih Tzu if I have children?
Yes. Many breeders will say no, because they are worried you will not watch your children. Have strong rules for the dog and the kids and they will have a wonderful relationship.
Will a Shih Tzu get along with a cat?
They will get along with the cat, but the cat will not always like the dog. If you want them to get along you will need to ensure that the cat is as comfortable as possible.
Will my puppy always like other people, kids and animals?
They will if you keep them well socialized. Allow children and other people to approach and pet your dog. Take him to places where he can safely interact with other dogs.
Why would my Shih Tzu bite or growl?
Read my article on Aggression. There are too many reasons for your dog to attack your kids, bite or growl. If you still need help please call or email me.
What can I do if my puppy is biting?
A puppy that is biting could be scared, over- stimulated, or mistreated. You can correct him by cradling him in one arm and holding his muzzle shut, without making him bite his tongue. Hold him until he relaxes then praise him and repeat if he bites again. Do not allow him to bite more than once before you hold him down. He may also need quiet time in his crate.
Can I ask you to add my kennel to your website?
You can ask me anything, but this is a loaded question. The only reason I say that is I view referrals as a responsibility on my part. I am responsible for what happens when I lead a buyer to an unsavory breeder. These buyers trust me and I will do all in my power to keep that trust. I don't want to scare you off! If you breed because you love to help others, you love your dogs, if you refuse to ship your puppies and if you are careful to breed within the guidlines set by the AKC and National Breed clubs, by all means please email or call me when you can. My referral list is dwindling as friends retire and I hate to turn buyers away without help.
Do you offer stud services?
Yes. Please visit Join Toto's Harem" for more information on my boy.
When is my dog too old to breed?
When your bitch starts to have deformed puppies, her hair does not grow back well after a long period of time, her energy seriously declines, her back starts to bow or you feel it is time for her to stop. Studs will simply stop producing litters.
How often can I breed my bitch?
Start with breed two heats; skip a heat. If she breeds later than every 8 months you can probably breed her every heat. If between heats her hair does not grow back, her energy is lower than normal, or she shows any other sign of ill health, skip that heat and keep skipping until she recovers.
Is it okay to have my children watch the breeding and whelping process?
If you think your children can handle the good and the bad, yes. Do not breed solely as a lesson to your children, it can be very traumatic. It is also a terrible way to treat your dog; she is a living creature and not a science project.
How do I know when my stud and bitch have succesfully mated?
They become stuck together and cannot part. Be there to keep the bitch from running and hurting the stud.
When will I know my bitch is pregnant?
You may not know until labor, but she may fill out three weeks before delivery or sooner. Movement is felt, she is very needy, eats more than normal, pees more often or hides. These signs can also mean false pregnancy. If you are worried you can have an ultra sound, but stay away from x-rays. I do not care what vets say, they are not safe.
When will I know my bitch is in labor?
Is there anything I should not do when my bitch becomes pregnant?
What should my pregnant bitch be eating?
Why isn't my pregnant bitch eating?
When can I take my pregnant bitch to a groomer?
Should I have my litter's dewclaws removed?
At what age do puppies open their eyes?
At what age do puppies start to walk?
At what age can I bathe my puppies?
How much sleep do puppies need?
When can I bathe my nursing dam?
Why do my puppies fight, are they hurting each other?
When can I feed my puppies solids?
When can my puppies leave my home?
My hope is that the information I provide is helpful. If so please sign my Guestbook.
The signs for labor will include panting, hiding, excessive drinking, refusing food, digging/nesting, excessive barking, attacking, whining, screaming and a rock hard stomach.
Yes. No vaccinations, chemical treatments or pills of any kind. No jumping on or off furniture or in/out of cars. Do not pick her up one- handed. Keep her in site at all times when she comes close to delivery to keep her from doing so in secret.
Puppy food from a good brand. Feed her an egg and cheese (not processed) everyday.
She is either nauseated or has a problem requiring a vet. Mostly, it is the first. Nausea tends to happen in females who were not solely feed dog food before pregnancy. Should she stop eating, give her two globs of Nutrical, found at your vet, twice a day. Feed her whatever she will eat. If she does not eat her puppies will not survive.
I wouldn't. It is a very rare groomer that will handle her with the safety and care necessary to her condition.
No, not in this breed. Removing dewclaws is only necessary if you breed dogs that are mostly outside where their claws are caught and ripped. Inside dogs do not need that same precaution.
They open their eyes between 2 and 3 weeks. Their eyes will be blue and they will not be able to see.
They will start to crawl around immediately, but walk when they are about 4 weeks.
No sooner than 5 weeks, if it can be helped.
New puppies only sleep and eat. At 3 weeks, add 2 hours of activity. At 6 weeks add another 2-3 hours of play. At 12 weeks they are awake up two 6 hours.
Not until the puppies are 5 weeks. Before than, put up with the smell. Sorry, but the health of the pups is more important. When you do bathe her, keep the soap off her nipples.
No. They are playing and it is normal. As long as no one draws blood, let them play. If one of the puppies tries to crawl away and is obviously scared separate them.
For nursing pups, wait until they start to show interest in mom's food. Bottle fed pups should be started on a runny mush at 3 weeks.
9 weeks old. By that age they have survived most puppy health problems, had the chance to socialize and will be old enough to handle the stress of change.
*For questions or comments on this site, please email me at The Georgia Shih Tzu