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Top 5 Award-Winning Shih Tzu Breeders In Ontario

Top 5 Award-Winning Shih Tzu Breeders In Ontario

The Shih Tzu is an adorable canine companion that has been adored by many paw lovers throughout its long history. These lovely pooches appeared in the 17th century in China.

Popular under the name “lion dog”, the Shih Tzu was praised and adored among many Chinese emperors and royals.

This friendly and loyal purebred dog became very popular worldwide. The Shih Tzu was introduced to America in the late 1960s. It is thought that back then, this companion dog was a rare sight to see.

During that period, there were only a hundred registered Shih Tzu puppies. Because they were considered quite rare, the rate of growth in demand for these unique pooches quickly accelerated.

Finally, in 1969, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Shih Tzu and registered it as a dog breed under the toy dog group.

The Shih Tzu was soon recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) within the non-sporting dog group.

Now that you are here, you are probably searching for reputable Shih Tzu breeders in Ontario, Canada. Well, you’re at the right place!

This article contains a list of the best Shih Tzu breeders in Ontario. As a bonus, we gathered some extra information about the Shih Tzu dog breed.

Keep reading to find out more!

Shih Tzu Puppies For Sale

Shih Tzu puppies are some of the most adorable puppies you will see!

These little fellows are very affectionate and loyal pooches that are eager to please their owner. After all, the Shih Tzu is bred to be the perfect companion dog!

Finding purebred Shih Tzu puppies in Ontario, Canada might be a bit difficult. If you are serious about purchasing a Shih Tzu puppy, you should do a lot of research on reputable breeders.

Sometimes, you simply don’t know where to start or you’re just not sure if that breeder you’ve just found is reputable.

Due to the fact that finding a reputable Shih Tzu breeder is very important when getting a new puppy, we made a list of the best Shih Tzu breeders in Ontario.

Hopefully, you will find everything you need in one place! Let’s get started!

1. Reillys Reg’d Shih Tzu.

 innocent face of young Shih Tzu dog on green lawn

The first Shih Tzu breeder in Ontario that we would like to mention is Reillys Reg’d Shih Tzu. This passionate breeder started the dog breeding journey with Yorkies.

For more than 20 years, Reillys Reg’d Shih Tzu has been producing high-quality Shih Tzu puppies.

Considering that this is a very serious and reputable breeder, the Shih Tzu puppies are brought into this world with lots of care and love.

This kennel offers both male and female puppies coming from adorable purebred Shih Tzu parents.

As a member of the Canadian Kennel Club, as well as the Canadian Shih Tzu Club, Reillys Reg’d Shih Tzu offers registered Shih Tzu puppies with an amazing pedigree.

These breeders do a wonderful job raising the happiest and healthiest Shih Tzu puppies. Not only do they feed their Shih Tzus only high-quality dog food, but they also provide them with quality playtime.

These Shih Tzu dogs are bred to be the healthiest dogs they can be. The Reillys Reg’d Shih Tzu breeder puts a lot of work and effort into developing the healthiest bloodlines.

All CKC-registered Shih Tzu puppies from this reliable breeder have had their first vaccine and have been dewormed by a veterinarian. Therefore, these Shih Tzu puppies come with all the documentation regarding veterinary records that show information about the dogs’ treatments.

Alongside their first shots, Reillys Reg’d Shih Tzu microchips their puppies. It’s very important to microchip a puppy because this makes them easier to identify. And, this breeder is very aware of that!

But, this is not all that the Reillys Reg’d Shih Tzu kennel has in store for you! If you decide to purchase a Shih Tzu from this breeder, you get six weeks of Trial Pet Insurance valued at a thousand dollars, and a one-year health guarantee.

Their website offers up-to-date information about upcoming litters and available Shih Tzu puppies. Once you get to know this amazing breeder, you will have lifetime support in raising your Shih Tzu puppy.

Whether you have any concerns or questions, seeking advice from the Reillys Reg’d Shih Tzu kennel is a place you can come to.

If you want a Shih Tzu puppy, make sure to contact this Shih Tzu breeder. Because these little dogs are so high in demand, you might want to reserve your Shih Tzu puppy.

Reillys Reg’d Shih Tzu Details

Website: Reillys Reg’d Shih Tzu

Email: [email protected].

Phone: (289) 339-5418

2. Schutzu Kennels.

shih tzu puppy running on the grass

Schutzu Kennels is located in the greater Hamilton area, in the village of Freelton. Having been around for the last 28 years, the Schutzu Kennels’ breeder has a lot of experience in producing and caring for this lovely breed of dog.

The main goal of Schutzu Kennels is to develop exceptional Shih Tzu puppies. By carefully selecting and matching high-quality Shih Tzu dogs, the Schutzu Kennel is constantly correcting the Shih Tzu bloodline.

Health is the most important factor when breeding Shih Tzu dogs, and this breeder knows this all too well. But, what she also knows is how to train and raise these wonderful puppies.

Not only does Schutzu Kennels focus on developing healthy Shih Tzu puppies, but they also focus on obedience training.

Shih Tzus from the Schutzu Kennel are high-quality pooches that are worthy of praise. These beautiful dogs have participated in conformation competitions and championships in both Canada and the U.S.

The Shih Tzu puppies come in gold and white coat colors. Some are smaller in size and weigh less than 11 pounds when reaching full size.

These puppies, as well as older Shih Tzu dogs, are available occasionally. To make a Shih Tzu puppy reservation, a four hundred dollar deposit is required.

All of their Shih Tzu puppies are born, raised, and trained indoors. If weather conditions allow, training and playtime are moved outdoors.

Such dogs are recognized for their quality and remarkable appearance. Not only are Schutzu Kennels’ Shih Tzus champion dogs, but they are also one of the most well-mannered and affectionate companions you will ever meet!

Because so much love, care, and effort has been put into breeding and raising these wonderful Shih Tzus, Schutzu Kennels places importance on providing them with loving homes.

The puppies come with veterinary records, which show that they got their first shot, deworming treatment, and a microchip. Both puppies and parents are carefully examined by a licensed veterinarian.

If you decide to purchase a Shih Tzu from this caring breeder, you will receive a full puppy package in which you can find items to take home for your new Shih Tzu puppy.

In this package, you will receive instructions for socializing and maintaining your lovely Shih Tzu puppy. This is especially helpful if you are a first-time dog owner!

What’s awesome about Schutzu Kennels is that you can contact them any time if you have questions or concerns about purchasing and caring for your new Shih Tzu puppy.

Schutzu Kennels’ details

Website: Schutzu Kennels

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (905) 659-3922

Address: Karen Schut, 241 Freelton Rd, Freelton Ontario L8B 0Z5

3. Trams Registered Shih Tzu.

shih tzu puppies sitting together in a wooden crate

Trams Registered Shih Tzu is a small kennel located in Niagara Falls, Ontario. This breeder takes the Shih Tzu dog breed very seriously.

From puppyhood to adulthood, the Trams Registered Shih Tzu kennel takes very good care of their lovely Shih Tzus by putting their health first. In order to develop happy and well-behaved Shih Tzu puppies, keeping them in good health is of utmost importance.

This breeder selects only the best Shih Tzu parents that are to be crossed to develop high-quality Shih Tzu pups. Their puppies are born in the most loving and caring environment.

They soon grow up to be wonderful and kind puppies that love interacting with all family members. Early socialization of the young Shih Tzu puppies is an important factor for this ethical breeder.

Being registered with the Canadian Kennel Club, these Shih Tzu puppies have been thoroughly examined by a professional veterinarian.

They also get their first vaccine and deworming treatment, and have been microchipped.

As a reputable breeder, they sell their puppies with all up-to-date veterinary records as well as a health guarantee.

All Shih Tzu puppies are put through early socialization , which helps them get along with all family members and other pets.

Not only are they well socialized, but these puppies are also regularly trained. Obedience and potty training are a must from an early age through adulthood. So, once you purchase a puppy from them, you won’t have to worry about this!

This breeder also offers stud service. If you are looking for a male to mate with your female Shih Tzu, you can contact this kennel for more information.

Because they put a lot of care into breeding their puppies, they want to ensure that these little companions go to loving forever homes.

Before buying a Shih Tzu puppy from the Trams Registered Shih Tzu kennel, make sure to read what this ethical breeder’s requirements are.

One thing you should know is that their Shih Tzu puppies are very high in demand. Because of this, the Trams Registered Shih Tzu kennel can help you reserve one of their puppies. There is a deposit that should be paid, and it is non-refundable.

This breeder offers a non-breeding contract, meaning that if you purchase a Shih Tzu puppy, you will have to sign this contract in which you agree that you will not use their puppy for further breeding.

You will get a puppy pack, along with your new Shih Tzu puppy! This pack includes high-quality puppy food, toys, and a guide that will assist you in raising your Shih Tzu puppy.

This puppy pack is a very good start for both you and your new four-legged companion!

Trams Registered Shih Tzu details

Website: Trams Shih Tzu

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 905-353-9957

Location: Niagara Falls, Ontario

4. Beswick Shih Tzu.

Shih Tzu in flower field

The Beswick Shih Tzu breeder is truly one of a kind!

This ethical Shih Tzu lover has been around for more than thirty years. With so much passion and care for these little pooches, Beswick Shih Tzu has invested a lot in developing the most amazing Shih Tzu dogs.

Beswick Shih Tzu is an at-home, small kennel that provides their Shih Tzu puppies with a lot of care and attention.

Raised in such a loving environment, the Beswick Shih Tzu puppies are some of the healthiest and happiest dogs you will see!

The Beswick Shih Tzu breeder is a passionate Shih Tzu breeder. Begistered with the Canadian Kennel Club, the Beswick Shih Tzu kennel takes selective breeding of this unique dog breed very seriously.

You can see this kennel on a member list of many other popular kennel clubs like the St. Catharine’s Kennel Club, the Canadian Shih Tzu Club, and the American Shih Tzu Club.

Because they are registered with the most important kennel clubs in both Canada and the United States, the Beswick Shih Tzu kennel breeds exceptional puppies with clean, high-quality pedigrees.

Beswick’s years of hard work has resulted in developing Shih Tzus with a remarkable bloodline. These dogs were bred to be stars!

Dogs from the Beswick Shih Tzu kennel are known as show-ring dogs that have won first place prizes in many competitions across the United States and Canada.

Having the puppy’s health in their best interest, this kennel puts a lot of effort into selecting only the best Shih Tzu dog parents.

The Beswick Shih Tzu kennel focuses on developing healthy Shih Tzu puppies that have inherited the best personality traits as well as the best looks!

Their puppies are raised at home, and have gone through early socialization and basic training. With such amazing temperaments, these Shih Tzu puppies are a joy to work with!

All Beswick Shih Tzu puppies receive their first shots, a microchip, and deworming treatment. In addition to that, their dew claws are removed before they are ready to go to their new owner!

If you have chosen to purchase a Shih Tzu puppy from this amazing breeder, check out what you need to know before sending a request.

When purchasing a Shih Tzu puppy from this breeder, you will need to sign a non-breeding contract that states that you are not allowed to breed these dogs.

When it comes to the cost of their Shih Tzu puppies, firstly, you will have to pay a two hundred dollar, non-refundable deposit. A Shih Tzu puppy alone will cost two thousand dollars.

You will receive pet insurance that lasts for six weeks, along with all necessary documents and veterinary records.

All of their clients receive a Shih Tzu puppy kit. The Beswick Shih Tzu breeders are aware that new Shih Tzu owners might need a little help with raising their adorable pooch.

Your new Shih Tzu puppy will come with a packet full of puppy toys, yummy treats, and a guide to help you get started.

After all, it’s very important to provide your new puppy with everything it needs, and the Beswick Shih Tzu kennel knows all too well about the Shih Tzu puppy’s needs!

Their Shih Tzus make great family pets that get along with everyone. Kind-natured and affectionate, a Beswick Shih Tzu will become your new best friend!

Beswick Shih Tzu details

Website: Beswick Shih Tzu

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (905) 646-1474

Location: Pat Waters, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada

5. Parkway Shih Tzu.

shih tzu dog walks in the garden

Parkway Shih Tzu registered with the Canadian Kennel Club in 2006. This CKC-registered breeder raises purebred Shih Tzu puppies at home.

Thirty years ago, the Parkway Shih Tzu breeder fell in love with this breed. Having so much experience, this reputable breeder has been breeding quality Shih Tzu puppies for quite some time.

These ethical breeders focus on the quality and health of all their Shih Tzu dogs. By carefully selecting the Shih Tzu parent dogs, this breeder develops amazing Shih Tzu puppies with an outstanding pedigree.

One of the best things is that these dogs are raised at home in a fun and friendly environment. This means that they are well adjusted to this type of living space.

Parkway Shih Tzu breeders socialize their puppies from an early age, and make sure to teach them basic commands.

These wonderful Shih Tzu puppies come with a two-year health guarantee, as well as six weeks of free puppy health insurance.

Because this is an ethical breeder who pays a lot of attention to his dogs’ wellbeing and health, all Shih Tzu puppies receive their first vaccines, deworming treatment, and a microchip.

When it comes to all the paperwork, you will receive a health certificate from a certified veterinarian, along with veterinary records.

Moreover, you will get a care package that has lots of puppy goodies inside! These breeders want to make sure that you get the best experience when getting a new Shih Tzu puppy.

You can find a lot of information on their amazing website. From past litters to planned breedings, and from grooming to services, the Parkway Shih Tzu breeder offers a lot of information about their kennel.

In case you have any questions about their lovely Shih Tzu puppies, make sure to contact the Parkway Shih Tzu breeder.

Parkway Shih Tzu details

Website: Parkway Shih Tzu

Phone: 289-668-8737

Shih Tzu Health Problems

Because Shih Tzus are purebred dogs, they inherit different hereditary diseases. Perhaps one of the most important things to mention is that the Shih Tzu belongs to the brachycephalic dog breeds.

Breathing issues

This means that its skull is built differently than in other dogs – it has a short snout and large eye sockets. This unique structure makes the Shih Tzu’s eyes appear larger and its nose smaller. Not only is the nose small, but the airways are short and narrow.

Such airways may be an issue for your little Shih Tzu dog as it can develop breathing problems throughout its life. Breathing problems are not only linked to the dog’s skull structure, but also to its quality of life.

The Shih Tzu is prone to developing Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, known as BOAS, for short.

This syndrome is common in brachycephalic dogs such as Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boxers, and Bulldogs.

If the Shih Tzu gains more weight, its size, in combination with its short snout, might cause more breathing issues.

It appears that this dog is snoring when, in fact, it’s just having difficulty releasing the air from its nostrils.

Eye problems

veterinarian hand applying medical eye drops to Shih Tzu dog's eyes

As we mentioned before, a Shih Tzu’s skull has shallow but large eye sockets. This makes its eyes pop out. Although it might look cute, this can cause some serious health issues.

The Shih Tzu dog breed is no stranger to eye problems. Their big eyes are prone to eye infections and other conditions, such as cataracts. A cataract is mostly a genetically-inherited condition. Shih Tzus rarely develop cataracts unless they are genetically prone to them.

What a cataract is is the cloudiness in the eye that makes a Shih Tzu’s vision blurred and murky.

The eyes also appear watery, and they might leak out transparent, and more commonly, reddish-brown eye discharge.

Another problem that comes with big eyes is eye injuries. Such injuries can cause serious damage to your Shih Tzu’s overall health.

From minor to major eye injuries, a Shih Tzu can completely lose its vision if not treated in time.

If not regularly groomed, a Shih Tzu’s long hair might keep getting into its eyes, making them watery and red.

A Shih Tzu’s big eyes are prone to drying out. The infamous Shih Tzu “dry eye” is called entropion or keratoconjunctivitis.

A list of Shih Tzu health issues

veterinarian doctor examining Shih tzu dog with stethoscope

Although your new Shih Tzu might not inherit a single health condition, it’s important to know some of the most common health conditions that this breed is prone to.

That’s why we made a list to help you get a clearer picture of different diseases that occur in the Shih Tzu dog breed.

Some of the diseases are hereditary, whereas some diseases are acquired during a Shih Tzu’s lifetime.

Here are the most common Shih Tzu health issues:

• Hypothyroidism

• Joint luxation

• Hip dysplasia

• Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome – BOAS

• Cataracts

Entropion

• Allergies

• Skin infections

• Ear infections

• Cushing’s disease

Let’s point out that most of these hereditary diseases can be prevented by good breeding practices.

Reputable breeders put a lot of effort into cutting down these genetically-inherited health problems by breeding the best-quality Shih Tzu parents.

This is one of the things you have to keep in mind before deciding to purchase a puppy from a breeder you just found.

You have to do a lot of research to get the healthiest Shih Tzu puppy that will live a long, happy life by your side!

Shih Tzu Lifespan

Happy shih tzu wearing a shark costume

If you are deciding to get a new puppy, you are probably wondering how long this little furball is going to be around.

I get it… every future paw parent wants to know their pet’s life expectancy. And, every future paw parent wishes that their pup will be around for as long as possible.

With an average  life expectancy of 10 to 16 years, your Shih Tzu companion will stick around for quite some time.

A Shih Tzu’s life expectancy depends greatly on how you maintain it. Regular health checks and vet visits are a must.

This is where choosing a reputable Shih Tzu breeder makes a huge difference. Responsible breeders pay a lot of attention to genetics and producing the healthiest Shih Tzu puppies.

Moreover, reputable Shih Tzu breeders give their puppies a good start. They regularly take their Shih Tzu puppies to the vet, and keep their health in the best condition possible.

By purchasing a healthy Shih Tzu puppy from an ethical breeder, your job isn’t just to play with it and feed it, but to primarily maintain its health condition.

Shih Tzu Puppy Price

Little brave shih-tzu puppy defend his toy

Shih Tzu puppies are sold at different prices. Usually, a higher price means that the Shih Tzu puppy comes from a reputable Shih Tzu breeder. But, that might not always be the case.

The average cost of a Shih Tzu puppy is between $200 and $3500. This depends on where and from whom you get it.

That takes us to the next question – why is there such a big price range between Shih Tzu puppies?

Well, that’s because good breeders invest a lot of money into raising healthy Shih Tzu puppies. So, you’re not only paying for a new Shih Tzu puppy, but you are also paying for all the maintenance it took for the breeder to develop a high-quality, healthy, and happy pooch.

What most future dog owners find very reliable is that reputable breeders are usually registered with a certain kennel club.

Ethical and accountable Shih Tzu breeders in Ontario are found on the Canadian Kennel Club’s list of registered members. This is also a reason for the puppy’s price to go higher.

Conclusion

The Shih Tzu is an amazing dog breed. These loveable pooches are known for being amazing family dogs. Not only do they get along with all family members, but their hypoallergenic coat is great for allergy sufferers who are eager to own these wonderful companions.

If you’re thinking about purchasing this fabulous pooch, you should take into consideration all the care and expenses that go along with it.

Finding the right Shih Tzu breeder is one of the first things you will want to do before getting a new puppy because a good breeder is your guarantee to a healthy Shih Tzu puppy.

Not all breeders have good breeding programs, and therefore, it is important to search for reputable breeders who put the puppy’s health first.

When contacting an ethical Shih Tzu breeder, not only will you purchase a puppy, but you will also make a friend that will help you on your new puppy journey.

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