Published in 2000 

This was the BEST! Great information about how to help determine the dog's personality and temperament BEFORE you make a choice. Here are the headings to give you a clue re: how comprehensive this is -- plus there are color photos showing what the author means.  Each part has several paragraphs of explanation and instructions.

Part One -- Assessment in the Kennel

1. reaction to strangers

2. enjoyment of body contact

3. hand shy?  (gets into how to determine whether the dog might bite)

4. strength of character ad sociability

5. trainability

6. other traits to look for

Part Two -- Assessment Outside the Kennel

1. general observations

2. behavior with other dogs

3. playing with toys

4. handling and grooming

5. response to commands

6. behavior with children

Plus lots of other good info on training the adult dog, etc. Lots of color photos.

This book comes highly recommended by Katiedid! 

Published in 1997.

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This book provides checklists on helping determine if the dog will fit you and your family, as well as whether you and your family are ready for a rescue dog!  Very practical advice that will be helpful to someone new to dog ownership.  A great book to buy for a friend who admires your furbaby but doesn't think he/she has the time or patience to raise a puppy.<o:p></o:p>

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Published in 1997.

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This book is especially helpful for someone who doesn't know what breed (or mix) would be best, plus good info on different sources for rescue dogs (beyond shelters and breed rescue organizations). Many touching stories, most with happy endings. Don't read this book unless you have room in your home and heart for another dog, because I almost guarantee you'll be moved to provide a home for a dog who desperately needs one!<o:p></o:p>

This was by far the best book that I have ever read.  It came highly recommended to me by Barb, who is Daisy and Taffy's Mom.  Excellent choice Barb and Gracie thanks you also!   two thumbs up!

 I got this book about 10 years ago. A wonderful book for the first time Tzu owner and those that love the breed . This book has a bit of everything in it from how the breed got to the U.S. to health problems. A must for the one that is thinking about getting their first dog !  I give this one a very big

 

 Recommended by Gabby and Teddy

This book is a MUST for all Shih Tzu owners.  The most comprehensive book about Shih Tzu available.  Book can be purchased from the American Shih Tzu Club's website - at http://www.shihtzu.org

This is an older book that I picked up at a used bookstore in Arizona. It contains loads of histoical facts about the early ShihTzus and the re is a lot of breed specific info. I have the seventh edition, printed in 1986, that gives you an idea of age, but there is a huge amount of very factual infrmation for those who like to be well informed. A very good reference book!