A new puppy is exciting and overwhelming at the same time, especially if you are hunting for one. If you are looking to take home a Poodle or Shih Tzu puppy, then you are in luck. Both breeds are loved for their friendly nature and charmingly attractive structures. However, finding a responsible breeder or adoption center with available Poodles puppies for sale and Shih Tzu puppies in Illinois requires very thought-provoking and careful research.
Whether you are a first-time owner of a dog or have previous experiences in raising pets, there are major considerations that may help you land the perfect puppy. Here are some top tips to guide you through the process of finding healthy and well-socialized Poodles and Shih Tzu puppies for sale in Illinois.
1. Research Sound Breeders
First of all, buy from a responsible breeder. Avoid buying from pet stores because many of the puppies sold there come from mills. These are breeders who make more money than they care about the health or welfare of the dogs-therefore, a serious serious breeder will always consider the health, temperament, and socialization of his puppies.
It is always helpful to research and find reputable breeders for Poodles puppies for sale and Shih Tzu puppies in Illinois. Look for breeders registered under the national breed associations. For instance, the Poodle Club of America and the American Shih Tzu Club really implement their strict standards and only reproduce dogs for the next generation only when they are properly bred.
Before committing to any breeder, you should ask questions concerning the puppy’s parents, its living condition, and health history. Reliable breeders should be open and willing to discuss the lineage of the dog and vaccinations given to the parents or whether there was any genetic testing that was conducted on the parents. They should also comfortably see you in person and take you where the puppies are raised so that you can interact with the puppies, thereby determining their social behavior.
2. Health Clearances should be your top priority
Health clearances are among the key factors in choosing a Poodle or Shih Tzu puppy, as both breeds are vulnerable to certain health issues. You may likely ask about their health clearances and vaccination.
Poodles suffer from hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), for example. Shih Tzus can have breathing problems due to a brachycephalic head type, and hip/knee problems are also common. A responsible breeder will have veterinary health clearances on both parents of the puppies to ensure that they have been tested and cleared of any major genetic diseases.
Don’t be hesitant in asking for copies of health certificates and ensuring that the puppy had been vet-checked prior to taking them home with you. In this way, your new furry friend will start life on the best possible footing for good health.
3. Meeting the Puppies and Their Parents
Visit the breeder’s home or facility to meet the puppies and their parents, if this is possible. Then you will have a chance to see where the puppy will live for his first days and, indirectly, he will show you his treatment by the breeder. Puppies who grow up in clean, stimulating environments and get proper human interaction usually seem more balanced and easier to train.
You will also see the puppy’s parents. As much as every puppy will have its own different personality, seeing where they come from can give you a lot of idea about what you can expect from them. See how the mother is taking care of the puppies and interacting with them, and even how they handle human beings.
Red flags include if the breeder will not let you meet the puppy’s parents or come and visit their home. A responsible breeder will have no problems showing you how the puppies are raised and providing insight into their care.
4. Consider Adoption and Rescue Options
While it’s okay to buy from a breeder, please don’t forget about adoption. Illinois is full of available Poodles and Shih Tzus through local rescues and shelters. They can be great pets and save a dog in need by adopting.
Rescue organizations often have a range of ages and temperaments to adopt. To get a particular breed, such as Shih Tzu puppies in Illinois, it is possible to check websites in rescue locations by group or on Petfinder or Adopt-a-Pet. Rescuing a dog may turn out to become a greatly rewarding experience, and it is, in fact, an excellent method of providing a loving home for a pet that has been through quite difficult circumstances.
And not only that, but many shelters also offer puppies to adopt, and you can find Poodles among them. Simultaneously, adopting is not only getting a perfect friend, but also an ally fighting against pet overpopulation.
5. You’ll have to be ready to spend money
Owning a Poodle or a Shih Tzu has its financial responsibilities. Even though they themselves might be costly to buy initially, the costs of owning them do not simply stop at the front door. Some of these monthly costs include food, grooming, and veterinary care. It is crucial that one should be prepared for such expenses before making this decision.
Poodles are bred to have the appearance of curly coats; therefore, they demand regular grooming. Shih Tzus require some grooming to prevent matting. Specific individual needs about either breed can determine special dietary requirements, and regular checks with the vet will help maintain your dog’s health over its lifetime.
All dogs need a lot of investment in terms of time, and generally, having a dog is a long-term responsibility. Poodles and Shih Tzus are no exception to this rule; both breeds have an average lifespan of 12-15 years, so their care is guaranteed to last the long term.
6. Understand the Breed Temperament and Needs
Before deciding on a Poodle or Shih Tzu puppy, you should be aware of their unique personalities and requirements. Poodles are highly intelligent dogs that are full of energy-they need a lot of mental stimulation and exercise. Thus, if you or your family love playing outdoor games or are an active family, a Poodle may be a very good companion.
On the other hand, Shih Tzus tend to be, in general, more docile and loving – making them an excellent companion for families or those who want a more laid-back dog. However, they can be quite stubborn in training, so it does take patience.
Remember to take a good look at your lifestyle before you decide on a breed that will fit your home and your level of activity best.
Conclusion
Finding Poodles or Shih Tzus is not a hard task; especially, since they are for sale in Illinois. It means doing a great deal of research to choose the right breeder, adoption center and rescue. After all, you are placing your faith in these people; they will be giving you the puppies. So, do ask for suggestions from friends, family members, or coworkers, but make sure you check health and socialization and the transparency of the breeders and the centers you visit. You must be ready for the responsibilities involved with raising a puppy.