Want to Start Shih Tzu Breeding?
Being a Shih Tzu breeder can be very exciting, but also challenging. Why challenging?
To start we all want to reach that unreachable goal ….. The Perfect Shih Tzu.
But no matter how good our Shih Tzu, we will always think we can do better. And therein lies the challenge. We keep challenging ourselves to new heights. And then there are of course time constraints, financial limitations, a lack of knowledge and other factors. But enough of all the challenges. You may be interested to become a Shih Tzu breeder yourself. Keep reading to find out whether you will make a good breeder.
Love of the Shih Tzu
Good breeders have one thing in common. They all love their dogs and are not in the breeding game simply to make money. Before you even think about breeding Shih Tzu, you need to honestly answer yes to the questions whether you love Shih Tzu. If you answer no, please find something else to keep you busy with. A good breeder will always put the bitches’ health first and allow her enough time to recover. Money is not the deciding factor.
Knowledge of the breed
Do you have the necessary knowledge of the Shih Tzu breed to become a breeder? Do you know the breed standard? It is not to say that you cannot become a good breeder if you do not have the knowledge, but you must be willing to learn all the time. Good Shih Tzu breeders are on an endless journey to gain more knowledge about the breed and they are able to transfer some of this knowledge to potential buyers. One of the many ways to gain more knowledge is to speak to other breeders, especially the ones that have a long history of producing top quality Shih Tzu dogs. Other ways is by reading books or articles, attending dog shows to watch the champions in action and by belonging to Shih Tzu clubs.
Financial Resources
Do you have the financial resources? Breeding can become very expensive, very quickly. In many areas breeders need a Kennel License as well. The bitch will need an examination before she is used for breeding purposes and while she is pregnant she need to visit the vet for x-rays and ultrasounds. This is your standard expense, but if there are any complications and the bitch needs a C Section or the puppies need emergency care after hours the cost can wipe out your dreams of a profit very quickly. After birth all puppies need vaccinations and a health certificate. Oh and before I forget – a good bitch or dog will set you back a few dollars, there are advertising cost to sell your dogs and don’t forget the cost of your time.
Knowledge of genetics
You need a basic knowledge of genetics in order to understand how genes affect a dog’s specific looks and appearance. A good breeder must be able to identify genetic defects; otherwise undesirable dogs will be used to produce the offspring. This way you will be in a better position to choose a mate for your dog.
If you aim to better the quality of the breed, have the financial resources and are willing to learn all the time chances are you will become a good breeder. Go for it.
If you would like to receive more information on the Shih Tzu breed, please feel free to join my mini-course. It is free and contains short emails about most issues that affect the Shih Tzu breed.
Further reading
The cost of breeding Shih Tzu.
