If you feel that this option is not right for you, there's also the possibility of adopting a rescue dog. While most rescues will not have many purebred Shih Tzu puppies available, they may have a slightly older dog or a cross-breed that's part Shih Tzu. This is a very worthy option and you'll feel great about giving an unwanted dog a loving forever home, but you might have to be patient if your heart is set on a Shih Tzu.
Shih Tzus are known to have some health issues, such as eye and respiratory problems, that are likely to require occasional visits to the vet throughout the dog's life. There are also the initial vaccinations that all puppies need as well as annual check-ups. Some of this may be covered by insurance, but the extent of the coverage available varies depending on how much you're willing to pay, and premiums will increase as the dog ages (remember that Shih Tzus can live for a long time – sometimes fifteen or more years!).
