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740456 tn?1260449809

Choosing a Pup

Hey Everyone!

I'm going later today to look at a litter of pups. They are Shih-Tzu's, about 5 weeks old.

Don't worry! I am not taking one home today, =) just looking and hopefully selecting one.

I'm looking for a VERY laid back, easy going, friendly dog. I read a lot into breeds, From what i read, I think the shih-tzu's tend to be pretty well rounded dogs? (it has to be a small dog because we already have 2 big dogs).

What does everyone think of this breed?

Also, I know there are certain "behavior"  tests that you can do to help determine the temperment of a pup, I know some of them but i was wondering if anyone had anything to add, what too look for to find a very good natured, happy go lucky pup, as opposed to a nervous or stand off-ish one =)

I know i want the one that bounds up to me, tail wagging and not barking. I also know that to determine how dominant or submissive the dog is, you can hold it on it's back and judge it's reaction....

Other ideas?
Thanks everyone!
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740456 tn?1260449809
jaybay!

Thanks you so much for responding. We just got back from looking to at the pups, The woman had 8 (poor mom!) and they were all beautiful. We stayed there for about an hour and a half, i played with and manipulated all of them. I feel head over heals in love with a brown female with white toes, white chest and white chin.... GEORGEOUSE and such a beautiful character. I told the woman that i would have to think about it but pointed to which one i was interested in (so she would know when i called back). As soon as i told her which one, her jaw dropped. I asked if it was already reserved or something? She said no, just that it was one of her favorites. lol. As soon as we pulled out of the driveway i freaked out and was like "no go back i want to put a deposit one her, shes so cute, shes so playful....." and my boyfriend said "oh i thought you wanted to think about it..." i explained to him that i absolutly wanted at least a deposit cause she's such a sucky sweetheart (5 weeks old eh?) lol and he's like "happy valentines day!" he found the add last night after i told him that i was going to call her, He called her and went to go see the 8 pups, while i was at work and told the woman he was fairly sure i would want the brown female (lol she's so spunky... i guess my boyfriend has learned what kind of dog i like =P) and he paid for her! *awwww* We will be picking her up around the middle of march. I called the woman when we got home and thanked her for playing along, it was such a nice surprise! I will be going back during the week to see her again and i'll take pics! lol i'll be going back a few times before getting her so i'll make sure to take tons of pics and we can all follow her puppyhood =P

YAY! I'm so happy!!!!!!
Helpful - 0
82861 tn?1333453911
Actually, the pup who bounds up to you is going to have a more dominant personality than the the pups who hold back a bit and assess the newcomer.  Wait a few minutes and simply watch the pups and observe how they react to your presence.  Don't speak or try to touch them - just let them sniff you and get to know you.

One pretty reliable "test" is to hold the puppy on your lap, and roll him over on his back.  A pup who is comfortable showing you his tummy is a submissive puppy.  The pup who immediately struggles to get back on his feet has a more dominant personality.  

Don't mistake the word "dominant" for "aggressive".  They're two entirely different terms where dogs are concerned.  Also, a dog with a more submissive personality is perfectly capable of becoming dominant if he senses a lack of pack leadership.  That means that you still have to do the work with obedience training and providing sound rules for his life with you.

Enjoy the day!  I can't wait to see pics of the lucky pup you choose.  :-)
Helpful - 0
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