Is a Male better than a Female?

Many people ask whether or not a male is better than a female.  The pet buyer’s desire for a female probably stems from previous experiences with other breeds. 

Shih Tzu have always been bred to be companions to humans.  Unlike many larger breeds, Shih Tzu do not have sex-linked temperament differences.  Males are every bit as affectionate as bitches (some say more).  In fact, one is more likely to witness occasional squabbles over food and toys and ranking in the pecking order between bitches than between males, particularly among bitches in season.

Note that it is best to have your pet Shih Tzu spayed or neutered as soon as recommended by your veterinarian to help curtail and eliminate undesirable sex-related behavior and reproductive health anomalies.  Males are easier to keep in coat because they don’t go through periodic, hormone-related coat loss, making the male the ideal choice for someone planning to keep a pet.