At A Glance
Also known as little lions, Shih Tzus are some of the most adorable pups. These tiny dogs may not take up much physical space, but they'll surely possess all the space in your heart with their playful and lively presence. They get along with children and other dogs, so they are excellent companions.
Last Updated on: Nov 21, 2023
Beautiful and graceful, the Shih Tzu is a breed that’s perfect for all types of families, big and small. Although they’re mistakenly listed as one of the dumbest dog breeds, these small dogs are intelligent companions you will love.
If you’ve set your mind on bringing one home but don’t know any breeders in California, we’ve listed our best recommendations for top Shih Tzu breeders in California.
With 17 years of experience, the Shih Tzu Nursery is a go-to Shih Tzu breeder in California. They breed and raise pups of all sizes. All of their AKC Shih Tzus are home-raised, ensuring they adjust easily to life with humans.
Good Breeder of Shih Tzus
AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. Program
The breeder has a health-first approach and ensures all dogs undergo genetic health testing. Pups are socialized early on with neurological, scent, sound, touch stimuli, and enrichment activities.
All pups go home with a 2-year health guarantee for congenital and genetic health conditions. They are also vet-checked thoroughly.
The best part about working with this breeder is that those on the waitlist can schedule an in-home visit to see the pups in person!
The Shih Tzu Nursery is committed to raising healthy, happy, beautiful Shih Tzu puppies of all sizes – ranging from mini, Imperial, & Traditional sizes in ALL colors. They focus on health (genetic tests & pre-breeding blood tests of their breeding mom’s & dad’s being their markers), AKC Shih Tzu standards of beauty (confirmation & coat), & temperament (socialization of puppies begins at only 3 days old with Early Neurological Stimulation & Early Scent Introduction & continues with noise exposure, intentional daily handling to help them be compliant, potty training, water & grooming exposure, crate desensitization, car rides in a car seat, exposure to different tactile textures & toys – steps, slides, toys that dance, make noise, &/or move on wheels, & a plethora of other daily fun activities that helps a pup reach its full potential by increasing nerve strength, confidence, low fear levels, & to be trusting of all humans & other dogs).
Top Dog Puppies is a licensed pet store with over 18 years of experience matching pups with the right homes.
If you don’t want to wait a year or longer for a Shih Tzu, work with Top Dog Puppies. They have partnered with private breeders and have puppies available throughout the year. You can rest assured they all follow ethical breeding practices!
Their puppies come with a 1-year health guarantee and receive all the necessary vaccinations for their age, along with regular deworming.
What’s more? They’re one of the only Shih Tzu breeders in California to offer 0% down financing options.
Address: Fullerton, CA
Besides being a Shih Tzu/Yorkie breeder, Kandy’s Pups N Stuff also runs a pet spa and hotel. So, it suffices to say they know how to care for pets properly. They have been an AKC-registered breeder since 2005.
They raise and breed a range of Shih Tzu mixes, such as Shorkies (Shih Tzu and Yorkies) and Shipoos (Shih Tzu and Poodles).
If you prefer meeting your pups in person before putting down a deposit, simply schedule an appointment. They also accommodate pet deliveries!
Address: Barstow, CA
This is the perfect breeder if you’re searching for hypoallergenic California Shih Tzus. Situated on eight acres of wooded forest, California ShihTzu Pups breeds and raises beautiful AKC Shih Tzus.
Their pups grow up healthy, happy, and mature thanks to the amount of free space, socialization, and love they receive.
From deworming and vaccinations to proper hygiene and nutrition, pups get the best care in their first few weeks. You can check out testimonials from previous customers to get a clear idea of what working with them is like.
Address: Sierra Nevada, CA
A multi-generational breeder with 15 years of experience, Sensational Shih Tzu’s and California Shih Tzu’s is one of the best Shih Tzu breeders in California. Their adult dogs and pups come with AKC/CKC or dual registrations.
They raise all puppies in a home environment for early socialization. They supply all new owners with a gift pack of chew toys, food, snacks, comb/brush, first outfit, and a blanket that smells like mom and dad. All this, along with an official Sensational Shih Tzu birth certificate with the first photo.
If you don’t have much experience raising a Shih Tzu, their resources on training and behaviors shall help guide you.
You can rest assured your puppy has up-to-date immunizations and professional health checkups before you take them home. They offer shipping and hand delivery across the continental US.
Address: Manteca, CA
Tiny Fur Baby is a unique ShihTzu dog breeder that offers mixes like Malshis (Shih Tzu, Maltese, and Yorkie), S’morkies (Shih Tzu and Maltese), and more. They’re a reliable breeder of small dogs with over 20 years of experience. They do everything to ensure your pup is well-rounded by the time it’s ready to go home with you.
If you’re looking for rare colors in Shih Tzu mixes, they may have the pup you want.
All pups come with AKC and CKC registration papers, health records, and age-appropriate vaccinations. They also distribute care packages that include a starter pack of NuVet Plus and a small bag of Nutrisource.
Address: Perris, CA
Le Itsy Lolli Pups is an AKC-registered breeder of Shih Tzu puppies in California. They’re also listed as an AKC Breeder of Merit and the AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. Programs.
They specialize in breeding the tiniest purebred and pedigree exotic pups. They breed bi-color, tri-color, solids, blue, lavender, isabella, black, red, liver, and white pups. They also breed Maltese, Pomeranians, French Bulldogs, Yorkshire Terriers, Toy Poodles, and German Shepherds. You can choose a limited or full AKC/APRI registered pedigree.
In-person visits are available to those who have made a deposit. Pet parents get a 1-year health guarantee and up-to-date status on vaccinations along with starter food and carrier.
Address: Hayward, CA
Meet Paul, a devoted dog dad to the delightful French Bulldog, Cofi. With a flair for humor and a deep understanding of Frenchie quirks, Paul brings a lighthearted touch to his writings. His relatable stories and practical insights are a blend of laughter and valuable advice and resonate with fellow dog owners.
Through his words, Paul aims to celebrate the joys and challenges of being a dedicated pet parent, reminding you that life is simply better with a four-legged, snorting sidekick by your side.
