Determining a Purebred Shih Tzu and Its Price

To determine if a Shih Tzu is purebred, you can assess various aspects such as its height, overall appearance, and bone structure.

1. Height and Weight:

Shih Tzus are a small breed, and purebreds adhere to specific height and weight standards. Typically, an adult Shih Tzu stands around 27 centimeters tall and weighs no more than seven kilograms. Deviations from this, whether too tall, too short, overweight, or underweight, indicate a non-standard specimen. A purebred Shih Tzu also exhibits a well-proportioned and balanced physique.

2. Overall Appearance:

A notable characteristic of a purebred Shih Tzu is its balanced body structure. The neck and shoulders should blend smoothly, with a short neck and a sturdy body. Its overall shape is somewhat rectangular, with the body length slightly longer than its height at the shoulder.

3. Gait:

Whether examining a puppy or an adult, observing the dog's gait is crucial. A purebred Shih Tzu walks with a consistent and uniform stride, displaying strong, well-developed leg muscles. An unstable walk is often an indicator of mixed breeding.

4. Bone and Coat Density:

Purebred Shih Tzus boast abundant bone and coat density. When purchasing, feeling the dog’s paws and lower legs can reveal the thickness of their bone structure. A robust frame signifies a healthy constitution. Furthermore, a purebred’s coat is thick, glossy, and resilient to dryness or breakage. Crossbred Shih Tzus tend to have sparse, dull coats.

How Much Does a Shih Tzu Cost?

The price of a Shih Tzu is influenced by various factors, including its quality, lineage, and the seller’s location and channel.

The market typically divides Shih Tzus into three grades: pet-quality, breeding-quality, and show-quality. Pet-quality Shih Tzus, which are generally kept as family companions, range from about $150 to $450. Breeding-quality Shih Tzus, often chosen by kennels, possess a pure pedigree but may have minor imperfections preventing them from competing in shows, and these are priced between $450 to $750. Show-quality Shih Tzus, bred to compete, may cost between $750 to $1200.

Source:5D Pet World