I'm Darlene M., the breeder behind Blue Ridge Blessings Shih Tzu located in Marshall, NC.
Q. & A. with Darlene
Why did you start breeding?
My passion for Shih Tzus began early with a friend’s dog. Years later, I brought home my first Shih Tzu, and that experience solidified my admiration for their affectionate nature and intelligence. This deep appreciation led me to pursue breeding with a commitment to advancing the breed while maintaining its exceptional qualities. My goal is to breed healthy babies that will bring joy to others!
What are the different breed coat colors in your program?
Our puppies include chocolate, cream and white, and liver and white. Colors will vary depending on the parent dogs.
Where do your breeding dogs live?
They live in my home.
Getting a puppy from Darlene
Darlene has been certified by Good Dog’s screening team for responsible and trusted breeding practices. When you’re ready to reach out, feel free to ask any questions about the breed, their program, or specific puppies.
Together, you’ll choose the puppy that’s right for you, stay in touch with regular updates, and plan how to bring your new puppy home.
Price
Puppy prices include between $1,500 - $2,000 final payment, before taxes & fees.
“This process includes the first round of the vaccinations, deworming, and CKC registration eligibility form.”
Contract & health guarantee
Darlene may provide a written contract or
health guarantee when you purchase a puppy. This helps
protect both you and your breeder, ensuring that you
both have a clear understanding of the terms of your
puppy purchase. If Darlene offers a contract
or guarantee, the details will be personalized by them.
If you have any questions or want to know more,
don’t hesitate to reach out to Darlene directly.
Blue Ridge Blessings Shih Tzu meets or exceeds our community standards in these areas:
Responsible breeding practices
Health of breeding dogs and puppies
Puppy environment and enrichment
Buyer education and policies
Litter and program updates
Darlene M.
Program update on 23 Aug. •
Lulu’s babies eating their first real food! 🥰❤️ Ready to join their families on 9/26/25!!
They will be the perfect, adorable size when it’s time to take family pictures for your Christmas cards!
…
Parent dogs
Lulu, mom
Shih Tzu
About Lulu
Lulu is a quiet, gentle natured little girl… or as my daughter calls her “ a little angel”. She is so loving and like all my dogs, always so happy to see you when you come home…whether you’ve been gone all day or five minutes! She is CKC registered.
Teddy bear, dad
Shih Tzu
About Teddy bear
Teddy bear is the most lovable dog! He loves to lay his head on your shoulder and give lots of kisses! His favorite toy is balls, he is obsessed with them! He gets along well with other dogs and his best friends with our cat. He is CKC registered.
Parent health testing
Blue Ridge Blessings Shih Tzu reports to performing the health tests below on their breeding dogs. Ask your breeder about the tests performed on the parents of your litter. Learn more about health testing for Shih Tzus.
Hip Dysplasia (rDVM, not registered)
Hip testing reduces the chance of passing down hip dysplasia, which is primarily found in large breed dogs and can cause hip pain and the eventual loss of the function of the hip joint.
Elbow Dysplasia (rDVM, not registered)
Elbow testing reduces the chance of passing down elbow dysplasia, which is primarily found in large breed dogs and can cause arthritis in the elbow joint and front leg lameness.
Eye Examination (rDVM, not registered with OFA)
Eye testing reduces the chance of passing down a wide range of hereditary eye illnesses including retinal dysplasia, lens luxation, and glaucoma, which can cause impared vision or blindness.
Cardiac Evaluation (rDVM, not registered with OFA)
Heart testing reduces the chance of passing down congenital heart disease, which can cause a range of symptoms ranging from trouble exercising to heart failure.