✨ Breeder Spotlight: Unveiling a Shih Tzu Breeder’s Passion for Dog Breeding

Thank you, Ara Hughey, of Divine Pups in Texas, for sharing your words of wisdom with the TellTail community.

In her breeder spotlight, Ara discusses the challenges faced by breeders, the importance of building personal connections with potential buyers, and offers advice to aspiring breeders to follow their passion, educate themselves, seek support, and persevere to make a positive impact in the world of dog breeding.

💡 Interested in being in the spotlight, or wish to nominate a friend? Email us at hello@telltail.com

What is so special about Shih Tzu?

These little furballs have a rich history and a remarkable story of survival.

You see, Shih Tzu have a lineage that dates back thousands of years. They were treasured companions of Chinese royalty and were considered sacred. In fact, legend has it that they were bred by Tibetan monks to resemble lions, symbolizing strength, courage, and luck.

But here's where it gets interesting—the Shih Tzu breed almost faced extinction during tumultuous times in China. It was only through the dedicated efforts of passionate breeders that this wonderful breed was preserved and brought back from the brink. The fact that we get to hold on to a breed that was specifically bred for companionship is truly remarkable.

This breed is the epitome of love and loyalty. They have an uncanny ability to connect with humans on a deep level, and their presence alone can bring immense joy and comfort. They have an incredible knack for sensing our emotions and providing solace during difficult times. They're healers in their own right.

Shih Tzu are not just adorable lapdogs. They have incredible potential as working dogs too. They are intelligent little beings with a natural connection to humans. With proper training and guidance, they can achieve amazing things. I’ve had the honor of raising puppies that have gone on to be service dogs and therapy dogs, they are powerful.

My Divine Pups have visited schools, and skilled nursing facilities, and even gone on home visits to heal broken hearts. It's truly indescribable to witness these beautiful dogs do something that no human can. The impact they have on people's lives, the smiles they bring, and the healing they provide—it's beyond words.

​The Shih Tzu is a breed that holds a unique place in the world of dogs. They are a reminder of the power of companionship, the resilience of a breed, and the incredible abilities that our four-legged friends possess.

FUN FACT: The name Shih Tzu is both singular and plural, similar to deer. So the plural is actually Shih Tzu.

What questions do you ask your potential buyers? 

When it comes to potential buyers, my approach is all about building a personal connection and understanding their needs. After all, they'll be welcoming one of my precious puppies into their lives, and that means a lot to me.

So, during our conversation, I like to ask them why they're looking for a puppy. It's important for me to understand their motivations and desires so that I can find the perfect match. Whether they're seeking a loyal companion, a playmate for their kids, or a therapy dog, knowing their specific needs helps me guide them toward the right puppy.

I also want to get a sense of their lifestyle. How do they spend their days? Are they active and have time for walks and playtime? Do they have other pets or children at home? Understanding their lifestyle allows me to match them with a puppy that fits seamlessly into their routine and environment.

Now, I don’t judge or interrogate. My goal is to educate and understand. We've all been in a place where we didn't know better, and it's important to me that buyers feel supported and informed. I share my knowledge and provide guidance, helping them make informed decisions for themselves and their future pup. They will on their own realize if this is something they are ready for and if I am the right fit for them as their breeder as well.

​And you know what? The connection we establish during our conversation is crucial. We're embarking on a 16-18 year journey together, and anything can happen along the way. That's why I insist on speaking directly with the future caretaker of the puppy. It's about building a bond and ensuring that we're a good fit for each other. After all, they'll be joining my extended tribe, and I want to be there to support them throughout the years.

So to me, connection is key!

It's more than just finding the right puppy—it's about building a lasting relationship based on trust, understanding, and shared love for these incredible creatures.

Why do you love being a dog breeder?

Being a dog breeder is my calling, my destiny, my passion. It's where I truly feel like I've found my purpose in life. Even when faced with challenges, I hold onto that deep sense of purpose, reminding myself of the positive impact I can make. 

I get to witness the most beautiful connections forming between families and their new fur babies. It fills my heart to the brim with love and happiness, knowing that I've played a small part in creating those lifelong bonds. And let me tell you, the journey of raising these pups, from the moment they take their first breath to the moment they find their forever homes, is a magical experience that reminds me why I love what I do.

Being a dog breeder is a true family affair. It affects everyone in my household, and there are times when I might have to miss out on family events. Birthdays, barbecues, karaoke nights—they may take a backseat when duty calls. It can be tough, but with the support and understanding of my loved ones, I find a way to make it work.

You know, being a dog breeder isn't just about breeding cute little puppies—it's about witnessing the incredible power that dogs hold. It's about seeing firsthand how they have this extraordinary ability to heal, to mend a broken heart, and even to save lives. It's truly inspiring.

Sometimes, I sit back and think, "Do we really deserve dogs?" They are such an extraordinary gift to humanity. They bring so much joy, love, and companionship into our lives. The bond we share with our four-legged friends is something truly special and unique.

And let me tell you, my heart overflows with happiness when I have the privilege of raising a puppy that goes on to change someone's life. When I see the profound impact that a dog can have on an individual or a family, it's a feeling like no other. It's like witnessing a miracle unfold right before my eyes.

Whether it's a therapy dog bringing comfort to those in need, an assistance dog providing a lifeline to someone with a disability, or simply a beloved companion that fills someone's days with laughter and love, the power of a dog is undeniable. And to play a part in raising a puppy that goes on to make such a difference—it's a gift that fills me with immense joy and fulfillment. There truly is no better feeling in the world than knowing that the puppies I've bred have the potential to change lives and bring immeasurable happiness. It's a reminder that the work I do as a breeder is not only about producing adorable pups, but about making a positive impact on the world.

​What challenges do you face as a dog breeder?

Being a dog breeder is not always sunshine and rainbows, I assure you. There are hurdles we must overcome and emotions that run deep within us.

One of the biggest challenges we face is the unfortunate stigma that sometimes surrounds our profession. Some people hold misconceptions or stereotypes about dog breeders, and it can be disheartening. 

Loneliness can also creep in at times. Breeding dogs can be a solitary journey, especially during those late nights caring for a puppy who needs round-the-clock attention. The weight of their lives lies in our hands, and it can be both daunting and overwhelming. We worry, we second-guess, and we question ourselves, because we deeply care about these precious lives we bring into the world.

And oh, the emotional rollercoaster we ride as breeders! It's not just about the joyous moments of new life and happy puppy families. We also face the heart-wrenching decisions of retiring a beloved dam or sire, knowing that their time in the breeding program has come to an end. We experience the bittersweet emotions of saying goodbye to puppies we've nurtured, as they embark on their own journeys with their forever families. Life and death become intertwined in our daily lives, and it's a weight we carry on our shoulders.

Physically, we can experience fatigue like no other. The long hours, the physical demands of caring for our dogs and puppies, and the countless tasks we juggle—it takes a toll on our bodies. And then there are the worries that keep us up at night. When a puppy falls ill, or a dam has a difficult delivery, we're plagued with concerns and seek answers when they seem elusive.

As breeders, we wear many hats. We are caretakers, trainers, educators, and advocates. We navigate the complex world of genetics, health testing, and puppy placements. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, we may face setbacks or feel defeated. It's a heavy feeling to bear when things don't go as planned or when we encounter obstacles along the way.

Yet, despite the challenges, the stigma, and the emotional weight, we persevere. We do it because we believe in the power of responsible breeding. We do it for the love of the breed, the joy of seeing happy families, and the positive impact we can make in the lives of both humans and dogs.

So, let's support one another, share our struggles and triumphs, and remember that we are not alone. We are a community of dedicated breeders, committed to doing our best and continuously learning and growing. Together, we can navigate the ups and downs of this rewarding, albeit challenging, journey.

What advice do you have for aspiring breeders?

So, to all the aspiring breeders out there, hear me loud and clear. Follow your passion, my friend! Embrace the challenges and keep that fire burning inside you. Be strong, be caring, and always put the well-being of your pups first. 

You gotta have that genuine love and passion for the breed you choose to work with. Breeding dogs is no walk in the park—it takes dedication, time, and a whole lot of effort. So, make sure you're embarking on this journey for all the right reasons. When you're head over heels for the breed, you'll find the motivation to weather any storm that comes your way.

Educate yourself like there's no tomorrow! Dive deep into the characteristics, health issues, and proper care of your chosen breed. Become the ultimate breed expert! Trust me, the more you know, the better equipped you'll be to ensure the well-being of your dogs.

​You don't have to go it alone. Building a solid network of experienced breeders, mentors, and veterinarians is a game-changer. They have been around the block and can offer you guidance, support, and a shoulder to lean on when things get tough. So, don't hesitate to reach out and soak up their wisdom like a sponge. There are many opportunities to attend seminars both live and virtual so make sure you are on the lookout for those!

Don’t forget the magic ingredients: patience and persistence. Breeding dogs is a complex and time-consuming endeavor. It won't happen overnight, my friends. But keep pushing forward, even when obstacles seem insurmountable. Trust me, that moment when you see a happy family cuddling one of your healthy, well-rounded puppies—it's pure magic. And that, is a reward that money can't buy.

The world needs more compassionate breeders who understand the joy and responsibility that comes with creating these beautiful connections between humans and their furry friends. So go out there, spread the love, and make a positive impact!