I purchased my Shih Tzu about a year ago at 6 weeks of age from a friend of the family. We've realized that when you get the pups at about 6 weeks the dog turns out to have a much better personality when its older. However, it is difficult to get a pup this young because its still a baby, but with the right feedings and attention the pup will be fine. I, atm own 6 dogs (A Labrador, an English Springer Spaniel, a German Shepherd mix, a Boxer, a Rat Terrier and my Shih Tzu.) Out of all of them, my Shih Tzu is my number one baby. He's the sweetest thing ever, completely spoiled and bratty. He's a dork and very funny. He was a little difficult to potty train but he finally got the hang of it at 12 weeks of age - since then we've never had an accident! He's an inside and outside dog who demands attention. I cannot go to the restroom to take a shower without him pawing under the door wanting to get it or barking at the back door demanding that you let him in. These might be habits that some people consider bad but they don't bother me so I let them go. One thing I did find interesting is that we recently bought our 6th dog...my 9 week old Boxer named Casey about 3 weeks ago and we did notice him get a little depressed at first but a couple of weeks later he got over it and has now become a puppysitter. He has taken over that title and we can literally say "Gizmo, I want you to lay down with Casey and go to sleep" and he will right there and then do it. Its very funny and he seems to enjoy having an important job of taking care of our pup. This breed is not for everyone! They demand attention and would probably die without it! My Shih Tzu cannot spend 2 minutes without being in someone elses arms or too far away from me! He seems to be a one owner dog or it might be because he spent most of his puppyhood only with me....I'm not really sure. He will play with my 10 year old sister on the trampoline but if I walk too far away he'll stop playing. They're great dogs for anyone who leads a calm life but is at home most of the time!!!
