Shih Tzu Dogs for Adoption
285 adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the US. Showing 241–270 of 285 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.
285 Shih Tzu dogs available — page 9 of 10
Belle
Belle wasn't always Belle. We originally named her Nikki when someone abandoned this tiny 9.5-pound Shih Tzu overnight on our property... in a cat car…
Canine CellMates--Fulton County's Jail Dog Program • Atlanta, GA
Kiwi
New rescues. Super cuties. Coconut and Kiwi Shih Tzu mix. Both are happy eating and playful at their hero foster home. 💜🥰. They will need time to re…
Furry Friends Rescue • Fremont, CA
Toby
Toby is new to EADR, he is a sweet dog but needs time to warm up.
Everglades Angels Dog Rescue • Pompano Beach, FL
Fendi
Humane Society of Missouri - Maryland Heights • Maryland, MO
Ready Freddy
MEET READY FREDDY! We are pleased to introduce Ready Freddy! Freddy is a 3 year old shih tzu mix that weighs in just under 10 pounds. He is as loyal o…
Rescue Rovers Dog Adoptions • Sandy, UT
Gabby (Gee Pups) 082226
Meet Gabby! Breed: Shih Tzu/Blue Heeler Mix Estimated DOB: 04/17/2026 Sex: Female (spayed) Weight: 15-20 lbs Currently up to date on all age appropria…
To Love a Canine Rescue, Inc. • Kimberton, PA
Alfred
Meet Alfred, the perfect little gentleman! Alfred is a 3-year-old Shih Tzu with a calm, easygoing personality that's hard not to love. He's crate trai…
Okie Pet Rescue • Claremore, OK
Patch (GA)
Patch (GA) is a 3yearold male brindle mixed breed (possibly Shih Tzu/Brussels Griffon??) who was recently rescued from a shelter — and he would like t…
Rescue Dogs Rock, Inc • New York, NY
Precious
Precious is just that! She is a 8 month old Shih Tzu and Yorkie mix. She is sweet and loves to give kisses! She is about 8 pounds right now. She doesn…
Rescues On The Runway • Santa Clarita, CA
Echo
Albuquerque Animal Services - Westside • Albuquerque, NM
Lil Buddy
Maricopa County Animal Care & Control - West Valley Animal Care Center • Phoenix, AZ
Photos coming soon
Dorothy
Somewhere over the rainbow... Dorothy is looking for a home. Meet Dorothy, a super sweet, 2 year old Shih Tzu mix. She is gentle, lovable, and ready t…
Mitchell Mill Animal Hospital Rescue Inc • Raleigh, NC
Pookie
Maricopa County Animal Care & Control - West Valley Animal Care Center • Phoenix, AZ
Kiwi
Meet Kiwi — a gentle, loving soul who thrives on companionship. He’s happiest when he’s close to his person, whether it’s sitting quietly at your feet…
Whimpers to Wags Rescue, Inc. • Colorado Springs, CO
Rusty
🐾✨ RUSTY HERE! ✨🐾 🏡 Could you be my forever family? If you’re Looking for a little puppy to bring some extra joy into your life? I am your guy! 💙 …
Almost Home Animal Rescue League • West Bloomfield, MI
Rio
🐾 HI, I’M RIO! 🐾 A cute bundle of pure joy! I may be tiny, but I’m pretty sure I already have the key to your heart! 💕 I’m a Shih Tzu/Wirehaired Te…
Almost Home Animal Rescue League • West Bloomfield, MI
Sun Tzu
Nacogdoches Animal Services and Adoption Center • Nacogdoches, TX
Cleo
Absolutely — here’s a polished adoption bio for Cleo: Meet Cleo! Cleo is a sweet, loving, small-sized fluffy girl who was found dirty, matted, and fen…
Recate Fenix aka Rescue Fenix • San Diego, CA
SU
Please go to our website, http://www.hoovershausealldogrescue.com/ to complete the adoption application. MUST BE 24 YEARS TO ADOPT!! Once your applica…
Hoovers Hause All Dog Rescue • Genesee, WI
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.
