Temperament testing for Shih Tzu puppies
The right fit, with confidence and clarity.
Matching a puppy to the right home goes beyond color, size, or pedigree. Every family deserves a Shih Tzu whose temperament and energy fit the life they actually live.
Every puppy · 12 traits · Scored at 9 weeks
What temperament testing is
Observing who a puppy really is
Temperament testing is the process of observing and scoring a puppy’s natural behavior in a variety of situations. It shows us how each puppy responds to:
✓New people
✓Sudden noises
✓Unfamiliar environments
✓Handling and touch
✓Problem-solving and social challenges
Shih Tzus are known for their affectionate, easygoing nature. But no two puppies are alike.
Some are naturally bold. Others are more reserved. Testing each puppy is how we make sure your Divine pup thrives in your home, not just any home.
9
weeks old
Why we wait until 9 weeks
When stable traits begin to show
At nine weeks, puppies are developmentally ready to show us who they truly are. Stable traits begin to emerge, including the ones that help us recommend a puppy for a specific role.
01
Family pet
Steady, social and easy to live with.
02
Companion for children or seniors
Gentle, patient and tuned in to people.
03
Future emotional support animal
Calm, resilient and deeply people-focused.
Our 12-trait framework
The 12 traits we test
Each trait is scored low, medium, or high. Together they guide our placement recommendation, based on your lifestyle and goals.
01
Sound Sensitivity
Response to loud or unfamiliar noises
LowMedHigh
02
Sight Sensitivity
Reaction to visual stimulation or sudden movement
LowMedHigh
03
Touch Tolerance
Comfort with being held, handled, or groomed
LowMedHigh
04
Prey Drive
Interest in toys, movement, or interactive play
LowMedHigh
05
Energy Level
Overall activity, rest cycles, and excitement threshold
LowMedHigh
06
Confidence
Willingness to explore new people, places, or objects
LowMedHigh
07
Assertiveness
Social initiative vs. caution with humans
LowMedHigh
08
Human Focus
Attention and engagement toward people
LowMedHigh
09
Friendliness
Comfort and approachability with strangers or pets
LowMedHigh
10
Tender Heartedness
Emotional sensitivity and reaction to tone
LowMedHigh
11
Motivation Level
Drive to work, learn, or solve problems
LowMedHigh
12
Resiliency
Ability to bounce back from stress or surprises
LowMedHigh
Matching puppies to people
With intention, not guesswork
Not every puppy is right for every family. Some Divine pups are naturally independent and adventurous. Others are gentle and emotionally intuitive. We identify those traits early, so your match is based on temperament.
Our matches have gone on to become:
✓Easygoing pets for first-time dog owners
✓Confident playmates for active households
✓Loyal emotional support dogs for those needing calm companionship
Sample evaluationIllustration
Sound Sensitivity
Sight Sensitivity
Touch Tolerance
Prey Drive
Energy Level
Confidence
Assertiveness
Human Focus
Friendliness
Tender Heartedness
Motivation Level
Resiliency
Recommended for: a calm household, first-time owner, or future ESA. You receive your puppy’s real evaluation and we walk you through it.
Emotional support animals
Can a Shih Tzu be an ESA?
Yes. Many of our puppies go on to become emotional support animals. Shih Tzus are emotionally attuned and incredibly affectionate, ideal qualities for anyone seeking supportive companionship.
Our temperament report gives licensed providers added confidence when writing a recommendation.
Good to know
Divine Pups does not issue ESA letters or complete ESA registration. We work alongside families who are getting a letter through a licensed professional.
Go deeper on temperament
Keep learning
Questions
Asked most
often
Still stuck on something? Text me. I’d rather answer it now than have you guess.
What makes a good ESA puppy?
Calm energy, emotional resilience, people-focused behavior, and low reactivity. These are the traits we score and document for every Divine pup.
Will I get a copy of my puppy's temperament evaluation?
Absolutely. We share your puppy’s evaluation and help you understand what the scores mean, so you can set them up for success from day one.
Can I register my Shih Tzu puppy as an emotional support animal?
Yes. Once you receive an ESA letter from a qualified mental health provider, you may register your puppy with a private registry and purchase an ESA vest for travel or housing purposes.
Are all Shih Tzus good emotional support dogs?
While Shih Tzus as a breed are well suited for companionship, not all puppies have the same traits. That’s why temperament testing is essential to determine ESA potential.
Ready to join the Divine Pups family?
Your journey starts with temperament
Finding the right puppy isn’t just about looks. It’s about connection, personality, and long-term fit.