Are you looking for Shih Tzu puppies for sale? If you care about animals, you will not get Shih Tzu puppies or even supplies from any pet shop that sells puppies. These stores have most likely been supplied by inhumane puppy mills that are often located in a different state.

Although puppy mills are concentrated on the east coast of America, they also occur in other parts of the country. Because of the incredible popularity of this feisty toy breed, Shih Tzus are a popular choice for puppy mills.

The best places to find Shih Tzu puppies for sale are licensed Shih Tzu breeders and Shih Tzu rescues. Technically, for any kind of shelter or rescue, you pay an "adoption fee", but you still have to put money down before taking a Shih Tzu home. In the minds of some people, they see Shih Tzus from rescues as the ultimate bargain for purebred Shih Tzu puppies.

If you take the shelter route in looking for Shih Tzu puppies for sale, keep in mind that they will be older and often have their breed misidentified as a Lhasa Apso. Spend some time getting to know different Shih Tzus in order to recognize a misidentified, scruffy Shih Tzu. Shih Tzus have luxurious, soft coats and a "chrysanthemum" shaped head. They also have round eyes while Lhasa Apsos eyes are shaped like almonds. Or, you could focus on Shih Tzu rescues that do the identifying work for you. Those puppies might even have papers.

Why all the fuss and time? They do this to be sure you are matched with a puppy that matches your personality and lifestyle. They also want to know and help you with all of your questions on Shih Tzu puppy care so your puppy has a forever home with you. The biggest reason pets are abandoned is that the owners didn't know what they were getting into before they brought the pet home.

When you do find the right Shih 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.

Shih Tzu breeders will usually do all of the registration for you, and offer you a list of great resources on Shih Tzu puppy care that they recommend. Some Shih Tzu breeders will try and answer all of your questions ? but if they don't know the answer, they should admit it and point you in the right direction. They may even be able to recommend a dog trainer and vet in your area. They are an invaluable support system in your adventure with a Shih Tzu puppy.