01

Pricing & reserving

Cost, deposits and how to hold your spot.

What is the price of the puppies?

Every puppy is priced by 7 weeks. The starting price is $3,850, and the average is $4,250. I put a great deal of time, care and investment into every dog, so you won’t find a cheap puppy here.

What forms of payment are accepted?

Cash, PayPal and Zelle. PayPal adds 3.6% per transaction for buyer protection, and financing is available through PayPal Credit. We do not accept checks.

How can I reserve a puppy?

Every step is laid out on our How to Reserve page: apply, talk with me, then choose your match journey.

Do you have a waitlist, and how early should I join?

Yes. Because our litters are carefully planned, joining early is the best way to secure a spot, especially if you’re hoping for a specific color or gender. We don’t hold a specific puppy until temperament evaluations are complete and you’re matched.

Are deposits refundable?

Deposits are non-refundable. Depending on your list, you may move to another Nursery List within your list’s time frame. Full details are on the How to Reserve page.

Do you provide a contract?

Yes. Every adoption comes with a clear purchase agreement covering the health guarantee, expectations, and your puppy’s care.

What is included in the puppy price?

A microchip, health certificate, veterinary records, a puppy starter kit (food, blanket, toy and familiar scents), and lifetime breeder support.

Do you offer breeding rights?

No. Pet homes only, with a spay/neuter contract. All pets must be spayed or neutered by 10 months of age.

02

Health & ethics

Testing, guarantees and how we breed responsibly.

Are you AKC inspected and compliant?

Yes. We adhere to AKC standards and inspection guidelines, with ethical breeding practices and a safe, clean environment for every dog and puppy.

Are you a Bred with H.E.A.R.T. breeder?

Yes. We live by the values of the AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T. program, Health, Education, Accountability, Responsibility and Tradition, in every part of our program.

Do you provide a written health guarantee?

Yes. Every puppy comes with a 2-year written health guarantee covering genetic and congenital conditions. We stand behind every puppy we raise.

What paperwork will I receive?

Your 2-year health guarantee, 30 days of Trupanion pet insurance, temperament test results, health and vet wellness records, and your spay/neuter contract.

How do you make sure parent dogs are healthy?

Every parent is screened for over 200 genetic conditions through Embark, with regular veterinary care. Only dogs who meet our standards for health and temperament are bred, and most of our current adults were born and raised here.

What do you do to prevent inbreeding and genetic issues?

Pairings are planned using pedigree diversity, genetic history, health data and temperament compatibility. Responsible breeding starts with knowledge and prevention.

Do puppies receive vaccinations and deworming?

Yes, on a veterinarian-recommended schedule. You’ll receive complete records, including vaccinations, deworming dates, vet visits and microchip information.

When do you retire your breeding moms?

Each mom is retired at a responsible age based on her overall well-being, and the quality of life we want her to enjoy afterward.

Do you guarantee adult weight?

No. We estimate based on weight at 8 weeks, parent size and daily growth, but many factors affect a puppy’s full grown weight.

03

Raising & temperament

How every puppy is raised and matched.

Do you temperament test your puppies?

Yes. It’s a key part of our process. Every puppy is evaluated at 9 weeks, so we can match them by temperament, energy and environment.

Do you raise puppies on a curriculum?

Yes. Our early development curriculum includes Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS), Early Sound and Scent Introduction, and structured socialization.

Do your puppies receive ENS?

They do. ENS runs from days 3 to 16, and is shown to support immune function, stress resilience and brain development.

Are puppies socialized before going home?

Yes. They meet a wide range of people, textures, sounds and environments, so they grow into well-rounded companions.

Will my puppy be potty trained?

Your puppy is trained on the Brilliant Pad system. For their protection, they don’t go outside while they’re here. You can transition to the method of your choice at home, but please don’t take them outside until fully vaccinated.

What diet are puppies raised on?

A high-quality, nutrient-rich diet formulated for small breeds. We’ll guide you through transitioning to your preferred food to avoid tummy upset.

04

Meeting & going home

Seeing your puppy, delivery and life after pickup.

Can I meet the puppies or visit your home?

We don’t allow visits to our home, for the safety of our family and the health of the litter. Here’s why. You’ll get photos and videos at no cost, and once evaluations are done and you know your match, we can schedule a meet up by appointment.

Can I FaceTime or video chat to see the puppies?

Yes. We offer FaceTime and video updates so you can watch your puppy grow before Gotcha Day, especially helpful for out-of-state families.

Where are you located? Do you deliver?

We’re in South Houston, TX. If you’re not local, there are several options: we can meet you at the airport for an additional fee, a flight nanny can fly your puppy in-cabin, or our nanny can drive to meet you.

At what age do puppies go home?

Usually between 10 and 12 weeks, depending on their individual development. By then they’ve had key socialization, vet checks and age-appropriate vaccinations.

What should I expect on pickup day?

Lots of love and excitement. We walk you through your puppy’s routine, send you home with all the paperwork, and make sure you feel ready.

Do you offer support after my puppy goes home?

Always. You’re part of the Divine Pups family for life. Please text or call me first when something feels off, or with any question, even one you think is silly.

05

About the Shih Tzu

The breed, its care and what to expect.

Where does the Shih Tzu come from?

The breed originated in Tibet as a companion to monks and royalty, and later became a favored palace dog of Chinese emperors. The name means “lion dog,” after the ancient guardian lion statues.

How long do Shih Tzus live?

Shih Tzus are known for longevity, typically living 10 to 16 years. With good care, nutrition and regular vet checkups, many enjoy long, healthy lives well into their teens.

What is the standard size and weight?

Per the AKC breed standard, 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder and 9 to 16 pounds.

What is an "Imperial" Shih Tzu?

“Imperial” usually describes a smaller-than-standard Shih Tzu. It isn’t recognized by the AKC, and it’s generally a marketing term that can come from breeding for size over health.

What are the rarest Shih Tzu colors?

Liver (a liver nose, eye rims and paw pads, often with a chocolate or red coat), blue (a dilute black with slate noses and grayish coats), and silver (a shiny, almost metallic gray).

Are Shih Tzus hypoallergenic?

They have hair instead of fur, which means less shedding and possibly fewer allergens. They’re often a good choice for allergy sufferers, though no dog is completely hypoallergenic.

How much grooming do they need?

Daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats, a bath every 2 to 4 weeks, and regular nail trims, ear cleaning and eye care.

Are Shih Tzus good with children and other pets?

Yes. They’re gentle and affectionate, and typically do very well with respectful children. With socialization, most get along well with dogs, cats and other pets.

How much exercise does a Shih Tzu need?

Moderate. Short daily walks and indoor play keep them happy. They don’t need intense exercise.

What are common health issues?

Eye conditions like dry eye and cataracts, brachycephalic airway syndrome, ear infections and dental problems. Routine vet care and responsible breeding help minimize these.

Can Shih Tzus be left alone during the day?

Shih Tzus are people dogs and do best with company. Most adults can handle a few hours alone with a safe space, toys and a routine. Puppies need more frequent breaks and gradual separation practice.

Still wondering?

Ask me directly

I’d rather answer it now than have you guess. Text me anytime, or start your application.