Our Story

Meet Poppy, the founding member of the TZU CREW. She came roaring into our lives 20 years ago, tiny in size (about half the size of your average Shih Tzu). She was described as the runt of the litter and had what was known as a "gammy paw" after a vet accidentally sliced through it during her birth.

She watched as all of her siblings were chosen for their new homes until she was the only one left—the last of the litter. Then she caught the eye of my parents, and that was it—there was no going back. From day one, she was bolshie, confident, and full of charisma. She was fiercely loyal to those she accepted into her crew, loving, and a perfect example of the Shih Tzu's reputation that gave them their name.

She may have been tiny in size, but she was afraid of no one and nothing. Over the years, she challenged dogs far bigger than herself, including pit bulls, and, for reasons known only to her, she seemed to have a particular dislike for Alsatians.

That is where the Tzu Crew comes from. We used to joke that she had a crew of Shih Tzu’s, with a few honorary members, such as her sister Jess (who was a terrier). They would share her fierce, unforgiving rivalries, but also the many qualities that made everyone around her love her and feel good whenever they were in her company.

This little Shih Tzu, bursting with character, wandered into our lives and made such a positive impact that it's hard to put into words. She passed away at the age of 14 in 2020, and every quality that defined her stayed with her right up until her final day: a charismatic, loving, and incredibly brave little lion.

The TZU CREW is a celebration of all Shih Tzu kind, these unique and wonderful little creatures we share our lives with.