Our Preservation Mission

• At Northstar Shih Tzu, our purpose is clear. We honor and preserve the true AKC Shih Tzu standard.

We are not commercial breeders. We are preservation breeders. Every litter, every pairing, and every decision is made with one responsibility in mind. Protect the integrity, health, and temperament of this remarkable breed.

Preservation breeding requires intention, patience, and discipline. Our role is not to change the Shih Tzu. Our role is to protect what it was always meant to be.

We focus on structure, soundness, and temperament. We do not follow trends or breed for extremes. We breed to maintain the AKC standard so each puppy reflects true breed type.

Every dog we breed from has:

• Proven success in the show ring, demonstrating adherence to AKC structure and type.
   
• OFA-certified health clearances, including eyes, patellas, and heart.DNA screening and genetic tracking through AKC DNA and Embark
   
• Balanced, confident temperament, steady and affectionate — exactly what the Shih Tzu is meant to be.
   

Our foundation is built on proven Champion bloodlines known for consistency in structure, movement, and expression.

We study pedigrees and track genetics carefully. Each pairing is planned to strengthen the next generation while remaining mindful of COI.

We evaluate every litter closely. Not every puppy is placed. Some are held back to continue building and protecting our program.

Balanced heads with warm expression
• Correct toplines and proper tail carriage
• Compact, solid structure
• Coat with correct texture and density
• A steady, affectionate temperament

The Shih Tzu exists today because a small number of dogs carried the breed forward. That history matters.

Without careful breeding, type and health are lost over time. Preservation breeding protects the future of the breed by maintaining structure, temperament, and genetic integrity.

Our dogs are family. They are raised in our home and are part of daily life.

Our puppies are introduced early to handling, grooming, sound, and routine. This builds confidence and prepares them for life in their new homes.

We do not take shortcuts. We do not rush the process.

Breeding the right way takes time, study, and responsibility. Each litter reflects our commitment to the breed and to the families who trust us.

For those who want a deeper understanding of preservation breeding, you can read more here:

Preservation vs. Conservation Breeders
https://caninechronicle.com/current-articles/preservation-vs-conservation-breeders-who-are-we/