How to Choose a Healthy Shih Tzu Puppy

By Homestead Acres team · September 23, 2026

Picking your puppy is exciting, and it is also the moment to be a careful observer. These are the signs we suggest every family look for, whether you visit in person or meet your puppy on a video call.

Look at the whole puppy

A healthy puppy is alert, curious and playful when awake. The body should feel solid and well-fed, not thin or bloated. Look for a clean coat without bald patches, scabs, sores or heavy flaking. Skin should look pink and healthy, not red or irritated.

Puppies sleep a lot, so see your puppy when it's awake and active as well as when it naps.

Eyes, ears, nose and mouth

Eyes should be bright and open without heavy discharge, redness or squinting. Ears should be clean, without a strong smell or dark debris. The nose may be moist or dry, but it should not run thickly. Gums should be pink and teeth should meet comfortably.

Shih Tzus have short muzzles, so listen for breathing that sounds extremely noisy or labored when relaxed.

Watch how the puppy moves

A puppy should walk, run and play without limping or an odd gait. Rear legs should move freely, with no hopping or skipping. A puppy who has trouble getting up or who cries when touched deserves a vet's opinion before you buy.

Temperament matters

Watch how the puppy responds to people and new sounds. A friendly, curious puppy who approaches you and recovers quickly after a surprise is a good sign. A shy puppy can still do well in a patient home, but be honest about what you can offer.

Spend a little time with each puppy you're considering. Personality often shows quickly.

Ask about records and care

Ask which vaccinations and deworming treatments the puppy has received and when. Ask about the puppy's age, diet and what it's eating now. Ask what is included with the puppy and whether the details are written down. You'll bring this paperwork to your vet.

Ask about the parents

Seeing or hearing about the puppy's parents tells you a lot about size, coat and temperament. Ask about their health and how they are cared for. A caring home will be happy to talk about it.

Plan a vet visit right away

Even a puppy who looks perfect should have a checkup within a few days of coming home. Your vet will review vaccines, parasite prevention and any questions about eyes, teeth or breathing. This also starts a relationship that will serve your dog for life.

See the puppies at Homestead Acres

We welcome visits at our Middletown, Delaware home, and we offer video calls if you can't make the trip. Call or text 302-344-1642 and we'll show you the puppies and answer all of your questions.

A quick checklist for your visit or video call

Bring a list of questions and your notes. Check that the puppy is alert, clean and curious. Look at the eyes, ears, nose, mouth and coat. Watch it walk and play. Ask about food, vaccines, deworming and records. Ask about the parents. Ask what you'll need to buy and when the puppy can go home. If something doesn't feel right, it's fine to say you'd like to think it over.

Common mistakes to avoid

Don't choose a puppy only because it looks the saddest or the smallest. Don't buy without seeing the puppy live, even by video. Don't skip the vet checkup after you bring the puppy home. And don't let anyone rush you. A good puppy will still be a good puppy tomorrow, and a trustworthy seller will give you time.

Choose the puppy whose personality suits your home. That match is what makes a happy, long-term family.

Why first impressions aren't everything

A puppy may be sleepy or overexcited on the day you meet, and that can mislead you. If you can, visit more than once or ask for a second video call at a different time of day. Watching a puppy eat, play and rest gives a fuller picture. You should also remember that personality develops as puppies grow, and a good match includes your own willingness to train, socialize and care for your dog.

Most important, ask questions. The more you know about the puppy's early care, the more confident you'll feel on the day it comes home.

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