Is a Shih Tzu a good breed of dog?

[Drill, baby, drill!]

I've been wanting a puppy/dog for a long time, and I recently found a Shih Tzu puppy that seems perfect. However, my parents want to be absolutely sure it's the right one. What can you tell me about the Shih Tzu, mainly it's health and temperment? I've heard good things...but I want a personal answer.

[Kristin >3 Moriah:d!]

shitzoos r cute but i have a mini dachshund named mickey and they r wayy better(in my opionaon)...but if u feel good about the shih tzu then go for it!

[Psistidan]

There is no such thing as "better dogs". It all depends on what you are looking for in a dog. Shih Tzu's are great little dogs. They are relatively health, quiet, calm, good watch dogs and very sweet. They seem to get along well with other animals and children. Of course all this good stuff happens only if they are brought up right, socialized, trained and fed good food. They do have long hair and grooming is a must. You need to learn to brush and maintain your dogs coat.