Shih Tzu Puppy - The Runt

Question
We are wanting to purchase a female Shih Tzu.  She is a brindle and she is also the runt.  Is it true that "the runts" are slower in learning and training?  If we aren't comfortable with the runt, is there a major difference in temperaments between male and female?  We hear so many stories, both negative and positive about the runts, that we don't know which way to go.

Answer
I don't believe that runts are less intelligent than any other littermate. I think they actually make the best pets as long as they are not full of inherited health issues.

As far as temperments go, female Shi Tzu's are very sweet dogs, but the males are very sweet too.

If you don't feel comfortable with her then may I suggest you get on the phone with a Shih Tzu rescue and adopt a dog that has lost their owner through death or some other reason. They are wonderful dogs, you won't have to go through potty training and you are giving a loving dog another chance at love.

She/he will be the most grateful dog you have ever owned. Trust me on that one!