Maximus

by Marda Arkebauer
(Thiensville, WI)

Maximus was the result of an accidental "gotcha" by a poppa pom and a mama shih tzu. I think the breeder was thoroughly upset with her male pom because a year later we called and asked about this particular breeding, the breeder couldn't even remember the litter and had made no records of it. She had sold her pom and was no longer breeding the shih tzu. We had hoped to get another one. But I can tell you after breeding and showing lots of dogs in my life....this is the most adorable little dog anyone could have. He's tiny and so smart it makes your head spin. He was housebroken in no time at all and tells us every time he wants to go outside. He's also very funny and quite a show off. He sleeps with us and has become very protective.....as if he's big enough to be accepted into any ankle-biter club. I've never had a dog like this. He's almost human....he's so loveable. I do have to watch him when I'm in the room around little kids who want to get too close. If I'm not in the room he could care less and plays with kids. We bought a shih tzu puppy for him to play with and they have become real buddies although the shiranian is still my favorite. Everyone should have a dog this terrific.