Breeding Shih Tzu

Complete Guide for Responsible Breeders

Breeding Shih Tzu presents unique challenges that set this ancient toy breed apart from other companion dogs. With their brachycephalic anatomy requiring careful whelping management, a complex double coat demanding meticulous selection, and a moderate 32% C-section rate, successful Shih Tzu breeding requires specialized knowledge and dedicated preparation. This comprehensive guide covers everything from mandatory health testing and coat genetics to puppy development milestones and honest breeding economics.

Breed Overview

The Shih Tzu is an ancient breed that originated in Tibet and was later developed in China as a companion dog for Chinese royalty. Known as the "Lion Dog," the breed was highly prized in the imperial palace and remained relatively unknown to the Western world until the 20th century. The breed's ancestors include the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese, contributing to the Shih Tzu's distinctive appearance and luxurious coat.

Originally bred as a companion and lapdog for Chinese royalty, the Shih Tzu was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 and placed in the Toy Group. The breed has maintained consistent popularity over the decades, currently ranking 20th in AKC registrations alongside fellow companion breeds like the Havanese and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, with a stable registration trend. This solid popularity reflects the breed's enduring appeal as a companion dog and provides breeders with a reliable market for well-bred puppies.

The national parent club, the American Shih Tzu Club (https://www.shihtzu.org/), provides extensive resources for breeders including the official illustrated breed standard, health testing guidelines, mentorship programs, and access to the national specialty show. Membership in the ASTC connects breeders to the broader Shih Tzu community and demonstrates commitment to breed preservation and improvement.

Breed Standard Summary for Breeders

When selecting breeding stock, understanding the standard's priorities is essential. The Shih Tzu is a sturdy, lively, alert toy dog with a long flowing double coat and a distinctly arrogant carriage with head well up and tail curved over the back. Although there has always been considerable size variation, the Shih Tzu must be compact, solid, carrying good weight and substance.

Size specifications: Both males and females range from 8-11 inches at the shoulder, weighing 9-16 pounds. The standard emphasizes that the breed must carry good weight and substance regardless of size within this range—legginess or lack of substance is a serious fault.

Critical breeding priorities include:

• Proper head type with broad skull and short muzzle creating the characteristic sweet, wide-eyed expression
• Correct bite: level or slightly undershot is preferred (not more than 1/8 inch)
• Sound movement with smooth, flowing, effortless gait
• Luxurious double coat with correct texture (dense, not silky or cottony)
• Proper proportion and substance with compact, sturdy body type
• Expression: warm, sweet, wide-eyed, friendly and trusting

Serious faults that should disqualify dogs from breeding programs:

• Narrow head with close-set eyes or snippy muzzle
• Pink on nose, lips, or eye rims
• Small or light eyes that detract from expression
• Legginess (too tall, lacking proper substance)
• Sparse coat or incorrect single coat
• Overshot bite

The AKC standard lists albinism as a disqualification (per UKC; not AKC-specific). While the Shih Tzu standard is relatively permissive regarding color, structural type, proper bite, coat quality, and the characteristic expression must never be compromised in breeding decisions.

Reproductive Profile

Shih Tzu have smaller litters compared to larger toy breeds, averaging 3.5 puppies per litter with a typical range of 1-6 puppies. The most common litter sizes are 3-4 puppies, which account for 58% of all litters. Single-puppy litters occur in approximately 8% of breedings, while litters of 6 puppies are rare at 5%. This smaller litter size significantly impacts breeding economics and must be factored into planning.

The Shih Tzu has a 32% C-section rate, placing them in the moderate-risk category for whelping complications. This is substantially higher than breeds with less extreme brachycephalic features but lower than ultra-brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs. The whelping method is typically breeder-dependent—experienced breeders with lines that whelp naturally may successfully deliver litters, while others routinely schedule C-sections based on their bloodlines' history.

Fertility challenges specific to Shih Tzu include:

• Brachycephalic anatomy can complicate natural breeding, particularly when there is a size mismatch between stud and dam
• Small pelvic size relative to puppy head size may necessitate surgical delivery
• Overweight dams have significantly increased whelping difficulties—maintaining proper weight is critical

Artificial insemination is commonly used when natural breeding is difficult due to size mismatch or brachycephalic anatomy. Both fresh and frozen semen are viable options, with fresh AI offering the highest success rates. Breeders should budget for progesterone testing when using AI to pinpoint optimal breeding timing.

Breeding Age and Timeline

Female Shih Tzus typically experience their first heat cycle between 4-8 months of age, though this can vary by individual and bloodline. It is critical to wait until full physical maturity before breeding—the recommended first breeding age for females is 18 months, which typically corresponds to their third heat cycle. This allows time for complete structural development and ensures the dam is physically prepared for pregnancy and lactation.

Males can be used at stud beginning at 12-18 months, after they have demonstrated correct structure and temperament and have passed required health clearances. However, many breeders prefer to wait until males are fully mature and proven in the show ring before standing them at stud.

Complete breeding timeline:

1. Birth to 12 months: Raise and evaluate puppy for structure, temperament, and type
2. 12-18 months: Begin show career if pursuing conformation titles; monitor for any developing health concerns
3. 18-24 months: Preliminary health testing (patella evaluation can be done at any age, though OFA certification requires 12 months minimum)
4. 24+ months: Complete all OFA health clearances (hip and cardiac if pursuing optional tests require 24-month minimum age); register with CHIC database
5. 18-24 months (females) or 12-18 months (males): First breeding after all clearances obtained
6. Throughout breeding career: Annual eye exams (CAER) required; maintain proper weight and condition
7. Maximum 4 litters per female over lifetime
8. 6-8 years: Recommended retirement age for breeding females

The OFA requires dogs to be at least 24 months old for permanent hip and cardiac clearances. While preliminary evaluations can be performed earlier, breeding decisions should not be finalized until permanent certifications are obtained.

Required Health Testing

The Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) requires specific health testing for Shih Tzus before they are considered for breeding. All breeding stock must have the following clearances registered with OFA or approved equivalent:

CHIC Required Tests:

• Eye Examination (CAER/OFA): Screens for hereditary eye diseases including cataracts, entropion, ectropion, distichiasis, glaucoma, corneal dystrophy, pigmentary keratitis, and progressive retinal atrophy. Cost: $85. Frequency: Annual. This must be repeated every year throughout the dog's breeding career.
• Patella Evaluation (OFA): Screens for patellar luxation (kneecap displacement), which is common in toy breeds. Cost: $65. Frequency: One-time evaluation for OFA certification.

Total minimum CHIC cost per breeding dog: $150 for initial year, then $85 annually for ongoing eye exams.

Additional Recommended Testing (not required for CHIC but strongly advised):

• Cardiac Evaluation (OFA): Screens for congenital and acquired heart diseases including tricuspid valve dysplasia. Cost: $75. Recommended at 24+ months.
• Hip Dysplasia (OFA): Screens for hip joint malformation and degenerative joint disease. While not traditionally associated with toy breeds, hip dysplasia does occur in Shih Tzus. Cost: $50.
• Thyroid Panel (OFA): Screens for thyroid dysfunction, which can affect fertility and overall health. Cost: $85.

Total comprehensive testing cost (including optional tests): $360 for initial clearances, plus $85 annually for eye exams.

All health testing results should be registered with OFA and the CHIC database. Dogs that complete all required testing receive a CHIC number, which should be prominently displayed in all breeding announcements and puppy advertising. Testing both the sire and dam provides the most comprehensive health assurance for buyers and demonstrates commitment to breed health improvement.

Where to obtain testing:

• Eye exams: Board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists (ACVO diplomates). Find a local specialist at acvo.org.
• Patella, hip, and cardiac evaluations: Your regular veterinarian can perform the examination; radiographs and evaluation forms are submitted to OFA for official grading.
• DNA testing: Embark, Paw Print Genetics, and other canine genetic testing companies offer panels for breed-specific conditions.

Hereditary Health Conditions

Shih Tzus are predisposed to several hereditary health conditions that responsible breeders must understand and screen for when selecting breeding stock. The breed's brachycephalic conformation and genetic background contribute to specific health vulnerabilities.

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is extremely common in the breed, affecting an estimated 85% of Shih Tzus to some degree. This polygenic condition is associated with conformation features including stenotic nares, elongated soft palate, and hypoplastic trachea. Clinical signs include noisy breathing, snoring, exercise intolerance, heat sensitivity, and respiratory distress. Symptoms are present from puppyhood but may worsen with age or weight gain. There is no DNA test available. Breeders should prioritize dogs with more moderate head type, open nostrils, and good respiratory function, while avoiding dogs with extreme brachycephaly or chronic breathing difficulties.

Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome affects approximately 65% of Shih Tzus and is directly associated with brachycephalic conformation. The breed's prominent eyes (exophthalmos), incomplete eyelid closure (lagophthalmos), and large eyelid opening (macroblepharon) lead to chronic corneal exposure, irritation, ulceration, and discharge. Symptoms can appear at any age and often worsen over time. No DNA test exists. Select for dogs with eyes that fit well in the socket without excessive prominence, and avoid lines with chronic eye discharge or recurrent corneal ulceration.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is common in Shih Tzus, affecting approximately 40% of the breed. This condition is associated with an FGF4 retrogene insertion on chromosome 12 that causes premature disc degeneration. A DNA test is available through Embark and other genetic testing companies, allowing breeders to identify affected dogs, carriers, and clear dogs. Clinical signs include back pain, reluctance to move, lameness, and paralysis in severe cases, typically appearing between 3-7 years of age. Breeding two carriers together produces a 25% risk of affected offspring; breeding clear to carrier produces no affected puppies but 50% carriers.

Patellar Luxation is common in the breed (45% prevalence) and is inherited as a polygenic trait with environmental factors influencing expression. Clinical signs include intermittent lameness, skipping gait, knee pain, and chronic arthritis. The condition can be present at birth (congenital) or develop in young adults. No DNA test is available, making OFA patella evaluation essential for all breeding stock. Dogs with grades 2-4 luxation should not be bred, and even grade 1 luxation should be carefully evaluated in the context of the overall breeding program.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) affects approximately 15% of Shih Tzus and is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait in most forms. DNA testing is available for some PRA variants. Clinical signs include night blindness progressing to complete blindness, dilated pupils, and secondary cataracts, typically appearing between 3-9 years of age. Annual eye exams can detect PRA before clinical signs appear, allowing affected dogs to be removed from breeding programs.

Cataracts are common (35% prevalence) with suspected polygenic inheritance and some hereditary forms. Clinical signs include clouding of the lens and progressive vision loss. Cataracts can be congenital or develop in middle to older age. No DNA test is available, making annual CAER eye exams critical for identifying affected dogs before breeding.

Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye/KCS) affects approximately 25% of Shih Tzus and is likely polygenic. Clinical signs include chronic eye discharge, redness, squinting, and corneal pigmentation, typically appearing in middle-aged to older dogs. No DNA test exists. Annual eye exams can detect early KCS, and affected dogs should be removed from breeding programs.

Renal Dysplasia (Familial Kidney Disease) is rare to moderate in prevalence (8%) with suspected hereditary transmission. Clinical signs include excessive drinking and urination, poor growth, vomiting, and weight loss, appearing in puppyhood to young adulthood. No DNA test is available. Breeders should investigate any puppy deaths or failure-to-thrive cases for possible kidney involvement and remove affected lines from breeding.

Hydrocephalus is rare but can occur as a congenital condition with possible hereditary basis. Clinical signs include a dome-shaped skull, seizures, behavioral changes, and vision problems present from birth. No DNA test exists. Any breeding that produces hydrocephalic puppies should be carefully evaluated and potentially not repeated.

Color and Coat Genetics

The Shih Tzu breed standard is remarkably permissive regarding color, accepting all colors and patterns including black, white, gold, red, silver, brindle, liver, and blue in any combination or pattern. There are no disqualifying colors in the AKC standard. This genetic diversity makes color breeding in Shih Tzus relatively straightforward compared to breeds with restrictive color standards.

Relevant genetic loci:

• A (Agouti): Controls the distribution of pigment on individual hairs and across the body
• E (Extension): Controls whether black or red pigment is produced
• K (Dominant Black): Determines whether a dog is solid black or allows agouti/brindle patterns to show
• B (Brown): Produces liver (brown) pigment instead of black
• D (Dilution): Dilutes black pigment to blue (gray) or liver to isabella/lilac
• S (Spotting): Creates white markings and patterns

The complexity tier for Shih Tzu color genetics is medium. While the basic inheritance is straightforward, the breed's extensive color diversity and common multi-color patterns require understanding of how multiple loci interact.

Health-linked color considerations:

Dilute colors (blue and isabella/lilac) are linked to Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA), a condition causing hair thinning and loss. While CDA is uncommon in Shih Tzus compared to some other breeds, it is documented in dilute-colored individuals. Dilute dogs may show thinning coat, areas of complete hair loss, and chronic skin issues. Breeders working with dilute colors should closely monitor coat quality and avoid breeding dogs showing signs of CDA.

No other colors are associated with health problems in Shih Tzus. The breed does not carry merle (which causes deafness and eye defects) and does not have restrictions on parti-color or piebald patterns.

Breeding color predictions:

Basic color predictions require DNA testing to determine genotypes, as phenotype (appearance) doesn't always reveal what recessive alleles a dog carries. For example, a black Shih Tzu may carry liver, dilute, or parti-color recessively. Genetic testing through Embark or Paw Print Genetics provides complete color genotypes.

General principles:

• Two liver-pigmented parents can only produce liver or isabella puppies (no black)
• Two dilute parents can only produce dilute puppies
• Two recessive red parents can only produce recessive red puppies
• Brindle requires at least one parent to carry the brindle pattern

For breeders focused on conformation, coat quality and texture are far more important than color. The standard emphasizes a luxurious double coat—dense, with good texture, neither silky nor cottony. Sparse coats or single coats are serious faults regardless of color.

Selecting Breeding Stock

Selecting superior breeding stock requires evaluating conformation, health, temperament, and pedigree. The following priorities should guide every breeding decision:

Conformation priorities:

• Proper head type: Broad skull with short muzzle creating the characteristic Shih Tzu expression. The head is the breed's hallmark—narrow heads, snippy muzzles, or close-set eyes fundamentally compromise breed type.
• Correct bite: Level or slightly undershot (not more than 1/8 inch) is preferred. Overshot bites are a serious fault and should disqualify a dog from breeding consideration.
• Sound structure: Level topline, good angulation front and rear, smooth effortless movement. Avoid roached or swayed toplines and restricted or unsound movement.
• Luxurious double coat: Dense coat with correct texture (not silky, not cottony). Single coats or sparse coats are serious faults.
• Proper size and proportion: Compact, sturdy, carrying good weight. Height 8-11 inches, weight 9-16 pounds. Legginess or lack of substance is incorrect.
• Correct tail set and carriage: High-set tail curved over the back, carried in an arrogant fashion.

Common faults to select against:

• Narrow head, snippy muzzle, small or light eyes
• Overshot bite
• Legginess (too tall, lacking substance)
• Poor coat quality (sparse, single coat, incorrect silky or cottony texture)
• Roached or swayed topline
• Low tail set

Temperament evaluation:

Shih Tzus should be confident, outgoing, and friendly. The breed standard describes them as arrogant in carriage but friendly and trusting in disposition. Shy, aggressive, or overly timid dogs should not be bred. Evaluate parent dogs for stable temperament with children and other pets, as temperament has strong hereditary components.

Puppy aptitude testing at 7 weeks can identify temperament tendencies and help match puppies to appropriate homes. Consistent socialization from 3-14 weeks is critical for developing confident, well-adjusted adults.

Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI) targets:

The average COI for Shih Tzus is 5.4% (typically calculated over 10 generations), which is relatively low and indicates good genetic diversity in the breed overall. Target COI for individual breedings should be under 5.0% to maintain genetic health and avoid inbreeding depression. COI calculators are available through OFA and various pedigree databases.

Extremely low COI (under 2%) may be desirable for genetic diversity, but breeders must still ensure that both parents excel in type, structure, and health. Outcrossing for diversity alone without maintaining breed quality is counterproductive.

Stud selection:

Stud fees for Shih Tzus range from $500-$2,500 depending on the stud's show record, health clearances, and offspring quality. Top show champions with proven producing records command premium fees, while younger or unproven studs may charge less.

When evaluating studs, prioritize:

• Complete health clearances (CHIC certification minimum)
• Correct breed type and structure
• Complementary pedigree (not too closely linebred to your female)
• Proven producing ability if available
• Temperament soundness

Breeding purely for popular colors or extreme features (extremely short muzzles, excessively large eyes) at the expense of health and sound structure undermines breed quality and responsible breeding ethics.

Whelping and Neonatal Care

Shih Tzu whelping can range from straightforward natural deliveries to emergency C-sections depending on the individual dam, the sire's size, puppy size, and bloodline history. The breed's 32% C-section rate means roughly one in three litters requires surgical delivery. Preparation for either scenario is essential.

Recommended whelping method: Breeder-dependent. Experienced breeders with lines that historically whelp naturally may successfully deliver litters at home with veterinary support on standby. Breeders whose lines have higher C-section rates often schedule planned C-sections at day 61-63 of pregnancy to avoid emergency situations.

Breed-specific complications:

• Brachycephalic anatomy increases dystocia (difficult birth) risk due to large round heads and shortened birth canals
• Small pelvic size relative to puppy head size can cause obstruction
• Difficulty with natural labor contractions in some bloodlines
• Increased need for veterinary monitoring throughout whelping
• Uterine inertia (weak or absent contractions) is more common in toy breeds

Signs that a C-section is needed:

• Strong contractions for 30-60 minutes with no puppy produced
• Resting period longer than 4 hours between puppies with more puppies remaining
• Visible puppy stuck in birth canal
• Green discharge before the first puppy is born
• Weak or absent contractions despite being past due date
• Dam showing extreme distress, weakness, or collapse

Birth weight and neonatal monitoring:

Average birth weight for Shih Tzu puppies is 3-6 ounces (males typically 4-6 oz, females typically 3-5 oz). Puppies under 3 ounces are at higher risk for fading puppy syndrome and require intensive monitoring and potential supplemental feeding.

Daily weight gain target: Healthy puppies should gain 5-10% of their body weight daily, which translates to approximately 0.5-1 ounce per day in the first two weeks. Weigh all puppies daily on a gram scale for the first 14 days. Any puppy that fails to gain weight or loses weight requires immediate intervention—supplemental feeding, veterinary examination for congenital defects, or treatment for neonatal infections.

Fading puppy risk factors in Shih Tzus:

• Low birth weight (under 3 oz)
• Congenital defects (cleft palate, heart defects, hydrocephalus)
• Neonatal infections
• Hypothermia
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• Inadequate milk intake

Maintain a warm whelping environment (85-90°F for newborns, gradually decreasing to 75-80°F by 4 weeks). Monitor puppies closely for lethargy, failure to nurse, crying, or chilling.

Dewclaw, tail, and ear practices:

The Shih Tzu standard does not require any surgical alterations. Dewclaws are not removed, tails are not docked, and ears are not cropped. The breed is shown in its natural state with only coat grooming for presentation.

Puppy Development Milestones

Shih Tzu puppies grow rapidly in the first 12 weeks, though their ultimate adult size is reached much more slowly at 10-12 months. Monitoring weekly weight gain ensures puppies are thriving and helps identify any growth abnormalities early.

Weekly growth milestones:

• Birth: 3-6 oz (males slightly heavier than females)
• Week 1: Approximately double birth weight (5-11 oz)
• Week 2: 0.9-1.0 lbs
• Week 3: 1.3-1.4 lbs (eyes open, ears open, beginning to walk)
• Week 4: 1.75-1.9 lbs (beginning to play, can start weaning process)
• Week 5: 2.2-2.4 lbs
• Week 6: 2.7-2.9 lbs (fully weaned, eating solid food)
• Week 7: 3.2-3.4 lbs (peak socialization window, temperament testing)
• Week 8: 3.6-3.9 lbs (typical go-home age)

Critical developmental periods:

Neonatal period (0-2 weeks): Puppies are completely dependent on the dam, nurse every 2-3 hours, and cannot regulate body temperature. Eyes and ears are closed. Focus on maintaining warmth, ensuring adequate milk intake, and monitoring for any health issues.

Transitional period (2-3 weeks): Eyes and ears open, puppies begin to walk and interact with littermates. Begin gentle handling to promote human socialization.

Socialization window (3-14 weeks): This is the CRITICAL period for developing confident, well-adjusted adults. Expose puppies to a wide variety of people, gentle handling, household sounds, different surfaces, and positive experiences. Inadequate socialization during this window can result in fearful or anxious adult dogs. The American Shih Tzu Club provides puppy socialization checklists and resources.

First fear period (8-10 weeks): Puppies may show increased wariness during this developmental stage. Avoid frightening experiences and maintain positive, supportive interactions.

Weaning age: 6-8 weeks. Begin offering softened puppy food at 3-4 weeks, gradually increasing solid food and decreasing nursing until fully weaned by 6-8 weeks.

Go-home age: 8-10 weeks. This allows puppies to be fully weaned, have received initial vaccinations and veterinary examinations, and benefit from continued socialization with littermates and breeder handling. Some breeders prefer to keep puppies until 10-12 weeks for additional socialization and structural evaluation.

Structural evaluation timing:

Initial structural evaluation at 8 weeks provides a preliminary assessment of show potential, but Shih Tzu puppies change dramatically as they mature. A more accurate evaluation at 6 months, when adult proportions are emerging, provides better guidance for show vs pet placement decisions. Final evaluation should wait until 10-12 months when adult size and structure are achieved.

Adult size achievement: Shih Tzus reach adult size at 10-12 months, though some individuals continue filling out and developing coat until 18-24 months.

Breeding Economics

Breeding Shih Tzus responsibly requires significant financial investment. The following breakdown provides realistic cost expectations for a single litter with natural whelping. C-section deliveries add substantial costs.

Pre-breeding costs (per dam):

• Health testing (CHIC minimum): $150 initial year + $85 annually for eye exams
• Health testing (comprehensive including optional tests): $360
• Show/performance titles (optional but recommended): $1,000-$5,000+
• Quality breeding stock purchase: $1,500-$5,000+

Per-litter costs:

• Stud fee: $800 (range $500-$2,500)
• Progesterone testing (for AI or timing): $350 (4-5 tests at $70-85 each)
• Prenatal veterinary care (ultrasound, x-rays, checkups): $450
• Whelping costs (natural): $300 (supplies, emergency vet standby)
• Whelping costs (C-section): $1,800 (surgical delivery, anesthesia, hospitalization)
• Puppy veterinary costs (first vaccines, dewormings, exams): $75 per puppy × 3.5 = $263
• Food and supplies (dam during pregnancy/lactation plus puppies): $250
• AKC litter registration and individual puppy registrations: $140

Total cost for natural whelping: $2,913

Total cost for C-section whelping: $4,413

Revenue:

• Average puppy price (pet quality): $1,200
• Average puppy price (show quality): $2,500
• Average litter revenue (3.5 puppies at $1,200 average): $4,200

Net profit/loss per litter:

Natural whelping: $4,200 revenue - $2,913 costs = $1,287 profit

C-section whelping: $4,200 revenue - $4,413 costs = -$213 loss

This analysis assumes average outcomes and does not account for:

• Failed breedings requiring repeat stud service
• Pregnancy loss or puppy mortality (reducing litter size)
• Emergency veterinary care beyond routine costs
• Advertising and marketing expenses
• Time investment for puppy care, socialization, and buyer screening
• Facility costs (whelping areas, puppy raising space)

With the breed's 32% C-section rate, approximately one-third of litters will result in minimal profit or a loss. Breeders relying solely on breeding income will struggle financially. Responsible breeding should be approached as a passion project and breed preservation effort, not a profit-driven business.

Puppy pricing varies by region, bloodlines, show titles, and health testing. Puppies from health-tested, titled parents with strong pedigrees command premium prices ($2,000-$3,500), while pet-quality puppies from less proven breedings sell for $800-$1,500. Show-quality puppies with breeding/showing potential are typically sold for $2,500-$4,000+.

Breeder Resources

The American Shih Tzu Club (https://www.shihtzu.org/) is the AKC parent club and the primary resource for Shih Tzu breeders. The ASTC provides:

• The official illustrated breed standard with detailed descriptions and photographs
• Health testing recommendations and CHIC requirements
• Breeder education programs and mentorship
• National specialty shows and regional supported entries
• Code of ethics for member breeders
• Breeder referral listings

AKC Breeder Programs:

• AKC Breeder of Merit: Recognizes breeders who demonstrate a commitment to health testing, titling, and AKC registration standards. Requirements include health testing all breeding stock, producing AKC-registered litters, and earning titles on dogs bred.
• AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. Program: Health, Education, Accountability, Responsibility, and Tradition. This program certifies breeders who meet specific health testing, education, and record-keeping standards.

Regional Shih Tzu Clubs:

Many regions have local Shih Tzu clubs offering shows, matches, educational programs, and mentorship. The ASTC website maintains a directory of affiliated regional clubs.

Recommended Books:

• The Complete Shih Tzu by Jo Ann White (comprehensive breed reference)
• The Shih Tzu Handbook by Sharon Vanderlip (practical care and breeding guidance)
• Shih Tzu: A Complete and Reliable Handbook by Jaime J. Sucher

Online Communities:

• American Shih Tzu Club forums and Facebook groups (ASTC members have access to private groups)
• Shih Tzu Talk forum (active community discussing health, breeding, grooming, and showing)
• Regional Shih Tzu club Facebook groups (connect with local breeders and exhibitors)

Mentorship:

New breeders are strongly encouraged to seek mentorship from experienced, reputable Shih Tzu breeders. A good mentor will help with:

• Pedigree analysis and breeding decisions
• Evaluating puppies for show potential
• Navigating health testing and genetic issues
• Understanding the breed standard nuances
• Connecting with other breed enthusiasts

The ASTC can assist in connecting new breeders with mentors in their region.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many puppies do Shih Tzu typically have?

Shih Tzus average 3.5 puppies per litter, with a typical range of 1-6 puppies. The most common litter sizes are 3-4 puppies (58% of litters). Single-puppy litters occur in about 8% of breedings, while litters of 6 puppies are rare at 5%. This smaller litter size compared to some other breeds significantly impacts breeding economics and revenue projections.

Do Shih Tzu need C-sections?

Shih Tzus have a 32% C-section rate, meaning roughly one in three litters requires surgical delivery. This is higher than many breeds due to brachycephalic anatomy (large round heads, short muzzles) and small pelvic size. Whether a specific breeding requires a C-section depends on the individual dam, puppy size, and bloodline history. Many Shih Tzus whelp naturally, but all breeders must be prepared for emergency C-sections and have a veterinary plan in place.

What health tests are required for breeding Shih Tzu?

CHIC (Canine Health Information Center) requires two health tests for Shih Tzus: Eye Examination (CAER/OFA) performed annually throughout the breeding career ($85 per exam), and Patella Evaluation (OFA) performed once for certification ($65). Total minimum cost is $150 for the first year, then $85 annually for ongoing eye exams. Additionally recommended tests include Cardiac Evaluation ($75), Hip Dysplasia screening ($50), and Thyroid Panel ($85), bringing comprehensive testing to $360.

How much does it cost to breed Shih Tzu?

Breeding a Shih Tzu litter costs approximately $2,913 for natural whelping or $4,413 for a C-section delivery. Major expenses include health testing ($360), stud fee ($800), progesterone testing ($350), prenatal care ($450), whelping ($300 natural or $1,800 C-section), puppy vet care ($263 for average 3.5 puppies), food and supplies ($250), and registration fees ($140). This does not include the initial cost of purchasing quality breeding stock ($1,500-$5,000+) or optional show titles.

At what age can you breed a Shih Tzu?

Females should not be bred until 18 months of age (typically their third heat cycle) to ensure full physical maturity. The first heat typically occurs at 4-8 months, but breeding this early risks serious health complications for the immature dam. Males can be used at stud beginning at 12-18 months after achieving full maturity and passing health clearances. All breeding dogs must be at least 24 months old to obtain permanent OFA clearances for hips and cardiac (if pursuing optional testing).

How much do Shih Tzu puppies cost?

Shih Tzu puppy prices vary widely based on health testing, pedigree, and breeder reputation. Pet-quality puppies typically sell for $1,200 on average (range $800-$1,500). Show-quality puppies from health-tested, titled parents command premium prices of $2,500-$4,000+. Prices vary by region, with urban areas and areas with limited breeders often commanding higher prices. Extremely low prices (under $500) are red flags for puppy mills or backyard breeders cutting corners on health testing and care.

What are the most common health problems in Shih Tzu?

The most prevalent health conditions in Shih Tzus are Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (85% prevalence), Exposure Keratopathy Syndrome (65%), Patellar Luxation (45%), Intervertebral Disc Disease/IVDD (40%), and Cataracts (35%). The breed's brachycephalic structure contributes to both airway and eye problems. Responsible breeders prioritize dogs with more moderate head type, open airways, and sound structure, while maintaining required annual eye exams and patella evaluations to screen breeding stock.

Is breeding Shih Tzu profitable?

Breeding Shih Tzus is minimally profitable or a loss-making endeavor when done responsibly. With natural whelping, average profit is $1,287 per litter ($4,200 revenue - $2,913 costs). However, 32% of litters require C-sections, which result in a $213 loss ($4,200 revenue - $4,413 costs). This does not account for failed breedings, puppy mortality, advertising costs, or the substantial time investment. Breeding should be approached as breed preservation and a passion project, not a business. Breeders relying on breeding income alone will struggle financially.

How long is the Shih Tzu breeding career?

Female Shih Tzus are typically retired from breeding at 6-8 years of age after producing a maximum of 4 litters over their lifetime. Breeding careers generally span from first breeding at 18 months through retirement at 6-8 years. Males can be used at stud longer if they remain healthy and maintain fertility, sometimes continuing to 10-12 years. However, breeding frequency should decrease as dogs age. All breeding dogs require annual health monitoring, and any dog developing health problems should be immediately retired from breeding.

What coat colors are healthiest in Shih Tzu?

The Shih Tzu standard accepts all colors without restriction, and most colors are equally healthy. The one exception is dilute colors (blue and isabella/lilac), which are linked to Color Dilution Alopecia (CDA)—a condition causing hair thinning and loss. While CDA is uncommon in Shih Tzus compared to some breeds, it is documented in dilute individuals. Breeders working with dilute colors should monitor coat quality closely. All other colors including black, white, gold, red, silver, brindle, and liver have no associated health concerns.

How do you prevent whelping complications in Shih Tzu?

Preventing whelping complications starts with maintaining the dam at proper weight (overweight dams have significantly increased dystocia risk), selecting studs of appropriate size (avoid extremely large studs on small dams), ensuring complete health testing before breeding, and monitoring progesterone levels for accurate whelping date prediction. Have a veterinary plan in place with 24-hour emergency access. Monitor whelping closely and recognize signs requiring C-section: strong contractions for 30+ minutes with no puppy, 4+ hour gaps between puppies, visible stuck puppy, or green discharge before the first puppy. When in doubt, seek immediate veterinary assistance.

What makes a Shih Tzu show quality vs pet quality?

Show-quality Shih Tzus excel in breed type, structure, movement, coat quality, and temperament, with no disqualifying or serious faults. Specifically: proper broad head with short muzzle and large dark eyes, correct level or slightly undershot bite, level topline, luxurious double coat with correct texture, proper size and proportion (8-11 inches, 9-16 lbs with substance), and confident friendly temperament. Pet-quality dogs may have minor faults such as slightly narrow head, smaller eyes, overshot bite, sparse coat, or incorrect size, which do not affect their health or suitability as companions but prevent competitive show success.