Carolina Red
Good with Dogs · I require routine grooming · Good with Kids · Requires: Mill dog experience or canine companion · Requires: Secure Physical fenced ya…
Leia's Hope Canine Rescue • Decatur, IL
Shih Tzu Dogs for Adoption
283 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 271–283 of 283 below.
About adopting a Shih Tzu
Bred in Chinese palaces to sit on laps and look elegant, the Shih Tzu has never held a job other than companion. That history produces a dog that is affectionate, a little proud, and content with a quiet indoor life. Shelter Shih Tzus are common, often arriving matted and overdue for grooming after an owner fell ill or moved.
They need only short walks and indoor play, which makes them a fit for apartments and less active households. The coat is the real commitment. Left long, it needs brushing most days and professional grooming on a regular schedule, or it mats painfully. Many adopters keep it clipped short. Puppies can be slow to house train and are easily spoiled. Adults are often already calm, though some carry habits from homes with no rules.
Eyes, teeth, and breathing are the common areas to ask the shelter and your veterinarian about, since the flat face and prominent eyes bring their own quirks. They tend to do well with gentle older children and other small dogs. Because so many arrive with little training, ask the shelter or rescue what this dog has learned so far and how she has behaved around people, other pets, and grooming.
283 Shih Tzu dogs available — page 10 of 10
Buttercup (D25-203)
Colorado · Heartworm+ · Adult-Only Home Preferred · Requires Another Dog · Good with Cats · Good with Dogs
National Mill Dog Rescue • Colorado Springs, CO
Laila
Meet Laila Laila is a gentle 1-year-old terrier mix with the sweetest soul. She’s currently pregnant and looking for a calm, loving place to land whil…
Love All Animals • Dana Point, CA
Tashi
Beebe Humane Society NJ Transport • Parsippany, NJ
Theo
Meet Theo, a 5-year-old Shih Tzu with a personality as irresistible as his adorable underbite. Weighing just 16 pounds, Theo is pure joy in a small, f…
One Love Animal Rescue • Mount Laurel, NJ
Frodo
Frodo is a 4 year old neutered male shih tzu. He weighs 11 pounds, is good with other dogs and cats. Recently had a dental, microchipped, up to date o…
Barking Dog Farm Rescue • Croydon, NH
At Risk
Lottie
Backstory for Lottie Animal Saints Rescue Society was asked to help with an owner surrender involving several Imperial Shih Tzu. Their former person w…
Animal Saints Rescue Society • Fort Montgomery, NY
At Risk
Clementine
Backstory for Clementine Animal Saints Rescue Society was asked to help with an owner surrender involving several Imperial Shih Tzu. Their former pers…
Animal Saints Rescue Society • Fort Montgomery, NY
Gizmo
Age: approx 2 years old Weight: 10 lbs My adoption fee is $ 675 which includes transportation charges to the Northeast. Check out Gizmo! This little g…
Small Dog Rescue of New England, Inc • Cranston, RI
Shih Tzu dogs by state
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Adopting a Shih Tzu — FAQ
Are Shih Tzus easy to house train?
Not especially. Small bladders and a stubborn streak make house training slow for many Shih Tzus, and adult dogs from lax homes may have never learned. Consistency, frequent trips outside, and rewarding success work. Ask the shelter whether this dog is reliable indoors before assuming either way.
How much grooming does a Shih Tzu need?
A lot. A long coat needs brushing most days and a groomer visit on a regular schedule, or it mats down to the skin. A short clip cuts the work to weekly brushing and occasional trims. Eyes and face folds need daily wiping either way. Budget time and money for this.
Do Shih Tzus get along with other pets?
Usually. Most Shih Tzus are sociable with other small dogs and tolerant of cats. They are not built for rough play with large, boisterous dogs and can get hurt. Slow introductions help. The shelter can tell you what this dog has lived with before and how the meetings went.
How do I adopt a Shih Tzu?
Open any dog's profile to see the shelter or rescue caring for them, then use the adoption link or contact details to apply directly with that organization. Every Dog's Chance simply gathers listings in one place so they're easier to find.
Are Shih Tzu dogs a good fit for first-time adopters?
Many Shih Tzu dogs — especially adult dogs who are already house-trained — can be a great match for first-time owners. Each dog's profile and the shelter or rescue caring for them can tell you about that dog's individual energy level, training, and personality before you apply.
How much does it cost to adopt a Shih Tzu?
Adoption fees vary by shelter and rescue, but typically include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and a health check. Open any dog's profile and contact the organization directly for their current fee and what it covers.
Are Shih Tzu dogs good with children or other pets?
It depends on the individual dog more than the breed alone. The shelter or rescue caring for each dog can tell you about their history with kids, cats, and other dogs. Many organizations offer meet-and-greets to make sure the match is right for everyone before you commit.
Can I foster a Shih Tzu instead of adopting?
Many shelters and rescues offer a foster program, sometimes with a foster-to-adopt path. Fostering a Shih Tzu gets them out of a kennel and into a calm home, which is a great way to see if the match feels right before committing. Ask the organization on any dog's profile whether fostering is an option.
What should I expect in the first weeks after adopting a Shih Tzu?
Most dogs have a brief adjustment period — a few days to a couple of weeks — as they settle into a new home. A consistent routine, a comfortable place to rest, and patience make the transition easier for both of you. The shelter or rescue can tell you what to expect from the specific dog you're adopting.
