About Deb
Deb is a devoted wife, mother, and lifelong dog enthusiast whose involvement in the Shih Tzu breed spans through the decades. Her introduction to the show ring began in elementary school, where a lasting appreciation for the sport first took root and grew into a lifelong pursuit.
Over the years, Deb has bred and shown champion Shih Tzu with a reputation built on integrity, discernment, and deep respect for the breed. Her puppies are thoughtfully placed in carefully selected homes around the world — from longtime dog enthusiasts to families new to the breed — all united by a shared belief that dogs are, first and foremost, family. Through word of mouth and generations of trust, her name has become widely recognized within the Shih Tzu community and beyond.
Alongside her work in breeding and the show ring, Deb creates handcrafted bows designed for presentation and competition, reflecting her understanding of tradition, detail, and the quiet elegance of the sport. Each piece is made with the same care and intention that defines her approach to everything she does.
Above all, Deb remains grateful for the love, companionship, and loyalty she has received from the many dogs who have been part of her life. Their presence has shaped her values, her work, and a legacy built not on attention, but on enduring relationships.
A tradition of excellence, guided by care, integrity, and respect for the Shih Tzu breed
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Where thoughtful breed preservation, quiet excellence, and lifelong devotion come together.
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A tradition of excellence, guided by care, integrity, and respect for the Shih Tzu breed * Where thoughtful breed preservation, quiet excellence, and lifelong devotion come together. *
Our Approach to Breeding
At Vaiden Shih Tzu, breeding has never been about producing puppies — it has always been about protecting and honoring the Shih Tzu breed. Deb has dedicated many years to raising, showing, and carefully planning litters with the goal of preserving the health, temperament, and beautiful characteristics that define this remarkable companion dog.
Each litter is thoughtfully planned, with careful attention to pedigree, structure, and long-term breed health. This approach is often referred to as preservation breeding, a philosophy shared by responsible breeders who work to safeguard the future of their breed.
Preservation Breeding: More Than Just “Breeding Dogs”
Responsible dog breeding is often misunderstood. Ethical breeders are not simply producing puppies — they are working to protect and preserve the future of their breed.
A preservation breeder focuses on maintaining the health, temperament, structure, and purpose of a breed so it can thrive for generations to come. This means every breeding decision is made with long-term responsibility in mind.
Some of the key principles of preservation breeding include:
• Protecting the breed’s integrity – Careful selection of breeding pairs helps maintain the correct structure, temperament, and breed characteristics that define the Shih Tzu.
• Health testing and responsible planning – Ethical breeders screen for genetic conditions and thoughtfully plan litters rather than breeding casually or frequently.
• Improving the breed – The goal is not simply to produce puppies, but to contribute positively to the future of the breed through careful evaluation, mentorship, and experience.
• Lifelong responsibility – Preservation breeders remain committed to the well-being of the dogs they produce and continue supporting the families who welcome them home.
For breeders like Deb, the goal is not quantity — it is quality, stewardship, and respect for the breed itself. Every litter is planned with the intention of preserving the qualities that make the Shih Tzu such a beloved companion.
Learn More
This summary is inspired by the educational article: “Preservation vs. Conservation Dog Breeders” published by Better Breeder. The article was originally published in the November/December 2023 issue of The Canine Chronicle.
You can read the full article here: