How to find a puppy

[TheHeadOfTheHouse]

I’m looking for a Shih Tzu puppy. I’ve researched the breed intensively and spoken to the Kennel Club numerous times about finding a good breeder, what to look for etc.

Now Kennel Club are advising to go with a Kennel Club assured breeder as they have been checked etc. however after looking into some of the assured breeders, some of them are registered to breed numerous breeds which is a puppy farm in my eyes.

Also some of the breeders who are advertising their puppies on Pets4Homes, are very vague when I ask them how many litters mum has had and what their inbreeding percentage is. I want a dog with a very low inbreeding percentage, who’s not an imperial dog (most Shih Tzu are imperial these days that are being advertised).

Even though Kennel Club are advising that i should go for an assured breeder, I don’t really like the idea of buying a dog from people who are breeding dogs as a business.

its becoming a minefield this, it seems to be very hard to find a dog that’s a full sized dog, not one that’s bred to be as tiny as possible, mum hasn’t had numerous litters, and the dog has all its KC paperwork.

also KC has advised that an inbreeding percentage of over 15% is too high, however I’ve contacted a KC breeder today and her dog is 18% (puppies not currently registered yet) and she informed me that she inline breeds and if it’s done properly there is no issue.

are my expectations unrealistic? Maybe I’m looking in the wrong places for a dog?

any help would be much appreciated.

Even though Kennel Club are advising that i should go for an assured breeder, I don’t really like the idea of buying a dog from people who are breeding dogs as a business.

Ultimately, breeding is a business. The only people who can afford to breed are either incredibly wealthy or are at least hoping to make some sort of profit. It is so expensive to breed a healthy puppy these days. You're talking...maybe £10K- health tests for mum, scans and care during the pregnancy, getting the 'set-up' (whelping pen) right, medical after care, early medical care for puppies, vaccinations, registration etc. That's if it all goes right. Often it goes wrong.

That being said, the below standard is what I used to vet breeders to try and avoid the 'puppy farm breeder types:

Anyone who advertises on pets4homes, is not someone anyone should buy a puppy from.
Anyone who breeds more than one type of dog, is not someone you should buy a puppy from.
Anyone who has more than two litters from a single bitch, is not someone you should buy a puppy from.
Anyone who has a COI in their puppies of more than 10%, is not someone you should buy a puppy from (unless it's a super rare breed!)
Anyone who has not extensively health tested dam and sire, is not someone you should buy a puppy from.
Anyone with more than two breeding bitches, is not someone you should buy a puppy from.
Anyone who has more than one litter a year, is not someone you should buy a puppy from.
Anyone who has a dog in a completely inappropriate environment (i.e. a border collie in a flat), is not someone you should buy a puppy from.

Have a look on Champdogs. Also be prepared to wait - potentially up to a year - for a good breeder. An excellent breeder has waiting lists and tbh anyone who has multiple puppies still available when they post on the KC website is someone I would avoid. It's always useful to cross reference on the KC website and Champdogs. Remember: just being KC assured or a KC breeder does not make someone a good breeder.

IMO your expectations are spot on. But, at this time of year, the 'skuzzy' (as my sister has eloquently dubbed them) breeders are out in force - trying to soak up the Christmas puppy market - with their poorly puppies and high COI. Wait until February-March.

@PoliticalPossum has summed it up nicely, and I'd also add that anyone who has a webpage dedicated to selling puppies is def one to cross off. The RSPCA have a good page as well on things to look for and some good tips like reverse searching any photos.
At this time of year you almost undoubtedly won't find any puppies available from reputable breeders, and at any time you should be expecting at best to be put on an 'expression of interest' list not seeing a puppy for sale and picking it up

Thank you for your reply, the adverts on the KC website are the same on the Pets4Homes website, so it seems the KC breeders are advertising their litter in as many places as possible.

also there are no requirements on the health testing of Shih Tzu for them to be registered with KC like Labradors for example have to have hips and elbows done

I’ve also contacted all KC registered breeders near me (within 75mile) and asked to go onto their waiting list

Going by PoliticalPossum's list the breeders of both my current dogs wouldn't pass, when I know them to be excellent and ethical breeders of proven working/sports/show dogs - it is a minefield and cannot be reduced to a tick list, unfortunately.

I will make a slightly left field suggestion as you are seeking a registered pedigree breed and want one of breed standard size. I would either contact the secretary of the main breed club or the breed club closest to you (some breeds have multiple clubs), explain your predicament and ask if they know of any litters available or in the planning.

You may also consider looking for championship dog shows in your area, attend as a spectator, buy a catalogue and look up the details for any exhibits that you like in terms of appearance, temperament and behaviour. This may help you draw up a shortlist of breeders to contact to express interest in going on a waiting list.

I would contact the kc registered breed clubs, as they will know of any upcoming litters from reputable breeders.

PoliticalPossum's list has some valid points, but some rather extreme ones.

Equally, PP will think some of my points rubbish, but hey ho - they come from a life with dogs of 40+ years and a sensible view that show breeders are not the devil, and largely speaking give you the best chance of finding a dog that is typical for the breed in type, size and temperament.

What you need to do is find a breeder and then wait for them to have something for you, NOT find a puppy. Find a breeder who:

• Shows their dogs (so will be producing to breed standard, not Instagram standard/size)
• Can show you several generations of healthy dogs with good temperaments, living happily together.

There are currently no advised health tests listed for the Shih Tzu, which is good at least, although it plays straight in to the hands of Assured Breeders.

I agree with you on the Assured Breeder front - this scheme had good intentions, but is fatally flawed and the KC are actually going away from it (although who knows what they'll come up with next) - as it stands, you are correct that it gives credibility and free advertising to many puppy farmers.

It would be nice to have a puppy with a COI lower than 18%, but I wouldn't discount a breeder who ticked all my boxes purely on this basis.

Thank you for this, I’ve just contacted the Shih Tzu Club UK and asked to be put in contact with some reputable breeders near me.

Try Champdogs website. You can check pedigrees and health and genetic testing, and narrow your search down by county.

My shihtzu breeder was recommended by someone. I went to her home she only breeds the mum once and they are her own dogs. She had 3 or 4 bitches all lovely and friendly. She only breeds shihtzu. I think she's only ever had a few litter. I'm still on social media with her she cried when I took my boy I think it says a lot. On arrival to see the pups they were plump healthy with mum who was relaxed all had food playing warmth toys comfortable space I saw dad too. It shows now my boy has always been so chilled and loving a good start sets them for life in my opinion. He's not a pampered pooch either hates being carried loves cuddles and he loves his walks. They should also offer you the pedigree certificate for the breed vet check etc. My mum in law has one too and he's just a sweetie. You could ask on local group but you may get idiots. Do you know anyone with a shihtzu? That could recommend a reputable breeder.

I got given my Shih Tzu from FB (free)😱 but he came with all his papers with his parents details on. He’s 13 in ‘Feb and (without wanting to junx it) he’s been the best boy in every single way. I can’t speak highly enough of him. Healthy 10, personality 10 & I will try & hunt down his breeder when he goes.

Failibg that, I will use champ dogs & wait. There’s no way I’ll be going to Kelly’s Kennels or the like.

Breeding is always a business. You can go with a certified breeder or you can buy from puppy mills. Id like to think that certified breeders are the safer option for you and the dogs.
Have you looked at rescues? There are some breed specific rescues.