Responsible Pairing & Line Selection
We choose our pairings thoughtfully, prioritizing health, temperament, and structure. Healthy, well-tempered parents are the foundation of healthy, happy puppies.
Why Choose Us
Why Choose Us for Your Shih Tzu
A small, family-owned Shih Tzu breeder near Somerville, Texas — devoted to healthy, well-socialized puppies and the families who love them.
Health Guaranteed
Home-Raised
Local to Central Texas
Raised With Love
Trusted Shih Tzu Experts in Somerville, TX
The Right Choice for Shih Tzu Owners in Central Texas
At Lake Somerville Shih Tzus, we do one thing and we do it with our whole hearts: raise healthy, happy, well-socialized Shih Tzu puppies and support the families who welcome them home. We're a small, family-owned breeder based near Somerville, Texas — not a high-volume kennel — and every puppy we place is raised right underfoot in our home.
We're proud to serve families across Central and Southeast Texas, including Brenham, Bryan, College Station, Navasota, and the greater Houston area, along with many surrounding communities within about 150 miles. Whether you're a first-time owner or adding a second little companion, we're close enough for an easy in-person visit.
This page walks you through exactly why so many Texas families choose us for their Shih Tzu — from our breeding philosophy and health standards to grooming guidance, temperament matching, and the lifetime support that continues long after pickup day.
Our Commitment to the Breed
Passion for the “Lion Dog”
We don't breed dogs in general — we specialize in Shih Tzus. Known for centuries as the “lion dog,” the Shih Tzu was cherished as a royal companion in ancient China, prized for its affectionate nature and regal little presence. That heritage shapes everything we do: we breed for the gentle, people-loving temperament this companion breed is famous for, not just looks. Focusing on a single breed means we understand its needs deeply — from coat care and eye health to the quirks of that charming personality.
Ethical Breeding and Adoption Practices
Transparent Adoption Policies
No surprises and no pressure. We answer every question honestly and walk you through our process, health records, and guarantee before you ever commit.
Limited Litters, Not Quantity
We intentionally keep our program small. Fewer litters means more individual attention, better socialization, and puppies raised the right way — never a puppy mill.
Health, Care & Lifelong Support
Wellbeing Comes First — and It Never Ends
Health Screening & Veterinary Partnerships
Pre-Adoption Exams & Vaccinations
Every puppy is examined by a licensed veterinarian and started on an age-appropriate vaccination and deworming schedule before going home.
Health History & Records
We keep complete health records and share your puppy's full health history, so you know exactly what you're bringing home. Where genetic testing applies, we're transparent about it.
Local Texas Veterinary Partnerships
We work closely with trusted veterinarians here in the Brazos Valley, so your puppy's care is grounded in the community you live in.
- Licensed vet exam
- Age-appropriate vaccinations
- Deworming started
- Complete health records
- Written health guarantee
- Microchip on request
Shih Tzu Health Care Guidance
Nutrition & Feeding
We start your puppy on quality food and share simple feeding guidance and transition tips so their tummy and coat stay healthy.
Eye, Coat & Respiratory Care
Practical tips for tear-stain cleaning, daily brushing, and keeping your flat-faced companion comfortable and breathing easy.
Heat Safety in Texas
Shih Tzus are heat-sensitive. We coach every family on shade, fresh water, cooler walk times, and never leaving a dog in a warm car.
Lifetime Support for Owners
Our relationship doesn't end on pickup day. You can reach us by phone or email with questions about feeding, grooming, training, or health for the entire life of your Shih Tzu — and our blog is full of owner guides to help along the way.
Ask Us Anything
Temperament & Socialization
Confident, Gentle, and Ready to Bond
Early Socialization Program
Exposure to Home Environments
Puppies grow up inside our home, surrounded by everyday sounds, gentle handling, and the rhythm of family life.
Child- and Pet-Friendly Conditioning
Early, positive exposure to children and other pets helps our puppies grow into calm, adaptable companions.
Matching Temperament to Your Lifestyle
Family Homes, Singles & Seniors
Every puppy has its own little personality. We help match the right pup to your household, whether you're a busy family, a single professional, or a retiree looking for a devoted lap dog.
Indoor Living & Apartment Suitability
Small, quiet, and affectionate, Shih Tzus thrive indoors and adapt beautifully to apartments and homes of any size.
Grooming & Coat Care Expertise
We Help You Keep That Beautiful Coat Healthy
Shih Tzu Grooming Knowledge
Long Coat vs. Puppy Cut
We'll help you decide between a flowing long coat and an easy-care puppy cut based on your time and lifestyle.
Coat Color & Texture
From white and black to gold and brindle, we share what to expect from your puppy's specific coat — and how to keep it looking its best.
Grooming Support for New Owners
Starter Kit & Checklist
New families get a simple grooming checklist so you know exactly what to brush, when, and how from day one.
Preferred Local Groomers
Not a fan of DIY? We're happy to point you to trusted groomers across the Somerville and Bryan–College Station area.
Local Expertise
Serving Somerville and Nearby Cities
Central Texas Coverage Area
Somerville & the Brazos Valley
SomervilleBrenhamBryanCollege StationNavasotaCaldwellSnook
Greater Houston (Within ~150 Miles)
HoustonCypressKatyTomballThe WoodlandsSpringConroeSugar Land
Other Key Cities
TempleKilleenGiddingsLa GrangeRockdaleCameronAustin outskirts
Why Local Matters for Shih Tzu Owners
Easy In-Person Visits & Pickup
Being nearby means you can meet your puppy in person and pick up close to home, with delivery available for many surrounding cities.
Local Climate & Lifestyle Knowledge
We know Texas heat and Texas homes, so our guidance actually fits where you live — not generic advice from somewhere else.
Your Preferred Vet & Grooming Network
Staying local keeps you connected to the veterinarians and groomers in your own community.
Testimonials & Success Stories
Happy Shih Tzu Families in Texas
★★★★★
"Healthy, confident, and so sweet from day one. You can tell these puppies are truly raised with love. Worth every mile from College Station!"
College Station, TX
★★★★★
"They answered every question and stayed in touch long after we brought our girl home. We already want a second!"
Brenham, TX
★★★★★
"The healthiest, best-socialized puppy we've ever had. A wonderful, honest family to work with."
Houston, TX
Repeat Clients & Referrals
Many of our families come back for a second Shih Tzu, and others find us through referrals from happy owners, local veterinarians, and groomers — the kind of word-of-mouth trust we're most proud of.
Transparent Pricing & Adoption Process
Clear, Honest, and Simple
Shih Tzu Puppy Pricing
What's Included
Every puppy's price includes a veterinary exam, age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming, complete health records, a written health guarantee, a starter pack, microchipping on request, and our lifetime support.
What Can Influence Cost
Factors like coat color, gender, and available registration paperwork can affect price. For current pricing on our available puppies, just reach out — we're always happy to talk.
Step-by-Step Adoption Process
1
Application & Screening
Reach out and tell us about your home. We'll make sure a Shih Tzu is the right fit for your lifestyle.
2
Deposit & Reservation
Choose your puppy and reserve with a deposit. We'll share regular updates as your pup grows.
3
Pickup or Delivery
Pick up in person or arrange delivery to your nearby city, and take home your new family member with everything included.
Kennel Standards & Certifications
Raised to a Higher Standard
Registration & Breed Standards
Registration Paperwork
Ask us about the registration paperwork available for your puppy — we'll explain your options clearly before you commit.
How Registration Benefits You
Registration provides documented proof of your puppy's lineage and its adherence to recognized Shih Tzu breed standards.
Facility Standards
Cleanliness & Safety
Our puppies are raised in a clean, safe, climate-controlled home environment — never crowded cages or unsanitary conditions.
Enrichment & Exercise
Room to play, gentle handling, and plenty of positive interaction help every puppy grow up happy and well-adjusted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Owner Questions
Do you offer Shih Tzu grooming guidance after adoption?
Absolutely. Every family receives grooming guidance for their puppy's coat type, plus a checklist to get started and recommendations for trusted local groomers in your area.
What is the typical Shih Tzu life expectancy?
With good care, Shih Tzus commonly live around 10 to 16 years. Regular veterinary visits, a healthy diet, dental care, and protection from Texas heat all help your companion live a long, happy life.
How do you help with temperament and training?
Our puppies are gently socialized from their first weeks, so they arrive confident and people-loving. We share early training and housebreaking tips and stay available to answer questions as your puppy grows.
Do you serve my city near Somerville, TX?
Very likely! We regularly place puppies throughout the Brazos Valley and Greater Houston, and across Central Texas within about 150 miles. Reach out and we'll confirm pickup or delivery options for your city.
Call to Action
Meet Your Shih Tzu
Ready to take the next step? Call, email, or send us a message — and if you're in Somerville, Brenham, Bryan–College Station, Houston, or a nearby city, schedule a visit to meet our puppies in person.