Although the American Kennel Club classifies the Shih Tzu as a "toy breed", the title can be misleading when you consider what a sturdy and strong willed dog this is. With their proud carriage, and distinctive long mane, it's no wonder that the word Shih Tzu translates in to "lion" in Chinese. As far back as one thousand years ago, the Shih Tzu served as a popular house pet for the Ming Dynasty, and has held its place as one of the most popular housedogs in the United States. If you're thinking about getting Shih Tzu puppies as a pet, it helps to know a little about their temperament and care requirements to help you decide if it will be a good fit for you and your lifestyle.

Shih Tzu puppies are a perfect choice for people without a lot of space, because they require very little exercise, but keep in mind that this is a vibrant and lively breed. And don't let their small size fool you; they can be aggressive if they feel threatened. Before bringing your puppy home, make sure you've puppy-proofed your home, because of their small size, Shih Tzu puppies can get in to almost any and everything. Items like moth balls, chocolate, Tylenol, household plants and bleach can all be fatal to your puppy, so make sure they're out of reach. It's a good idea to begin crate training right away to discourage too much roaming. Outfit your puppy's crate with a blanket and plenty of toys to keep him busy when you can't watch him.

In terms of health, a visit to the veterinarian is in order as soon as possible, ideally within three to ten days of bringing your puppy home. Normal vaccinations will include parvo, rabies and distemper, but your vet should also do a general check of your puppy's teeth, ears, and eyes for any signs of infection or mites. You should also take special care to ask for a back and leg examination. Because Shih Tzu puppies have long backs and short legs, they can be prone to back problems later on. Your vet can give you tips on clipping your dog's toenails to avoid future skin problems due to nail punctures.

Dog owners with children should take special care to test their new puppy's sensitivity to avoid any biting during playtime. An easy way to test your puppy's sensitivity is to gently press down between their toes, if your puppy is especially sensitive, he will let out a warning growl. If this is the case, it's a good idea to give your children guidelines for playing with their new pet. Shih Tzu puppies are intelligent and loyal additions to the family, and knowing how to care for them will ensure years of great companionship.