Shih Tzu

A charming lapdog with a royal heritage.

The Shih Tzu is a toy breed known for its affectionate nature, flowing coat, and friendly temperament. Originally bred as a companion for Chinese royalty, they are loving house dogs that enjoy being pampered. They make excellent companions for individuals and families alike.

Quick Facts

SizeSmall
Breed GroupUtility
Lifespan10–12 Years
Exercise NeedsUp to 1 hour per day
TrainabilityThey are eager to please but may be a bit stubborn. Consistent, positive training works well for them.
Grooming NeedsHigh
SheddingNo
Barking TendencyMedium
TemperamentAffectionate, outgoing, and alert. They love attention and are generally good with children and other pets.

Available Shih Tzus

34 dogs available
Annie, a 12 years old female Shih Tzu available for adoption from Blue Cross in Oxfordshire

Blue Cross

Annie

Oxfordshire
SexFemale
Age12 years
BreedShih Tzu

I'm a 11-year-old Shih Tzu from Burford rehoming centre and I'm looking for my forever home. Please read my profile below to find out more.Thanks for clicking on my profile. I have now been matched with a loving family and I’m looking forward to settling in at my new home. However, many of my friends still need adopting.This is our darling Granny Annie.She is a sweet older girl who is looking for a retirement home where she can be the centre of attention, have lots of fuss as she deserves to, and can join her owner for an afternoon snooze on the sofa when the mood takes her.Granny Annie would be best suited to living with adults or teenagers who can understand when this lovely little lady will need time to do important dog business like lounging in the sun, pondering interesting topics, and inspecting comfortable perches to watch the world go by.In her new home, Granny Annie would like to be the only pet as she doesn’t want much from other dogs and finds cats too much, but don’t worry, this funny and loving sweetheart has enough personality to go around. She loves to go for walks and is quite speedy when she gets going, and would enjoy a trip to any dog friendly café or pub.Granny Annie has shown herself to be housetrained here at the centre and loves to settle on her orthopaedic dog bed whilst the office team get to work – she really isn’t any hassle at all.If this lovely little lady is the canine companion you’ve been looking for, please get in touch today!Flat faced (brachycephalic) dogs suffer from additional health problems, which may impact their quality of life. We always recommend anyone thinking about adopting or buying a flat faced (brachycephalic) dog to thoroughly research the breed beforehand. Our expert team will be able to give you tips on exercise and weight management and advice on any support Granny Annie may need.The best way to stay up to date with what's going on at Blue Cross is to join our mailing list.Blue Cross is a registered charity in England and Wales (224392) and in Scotland (SC040154). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales under company number 00363197. Registered address Shilton Road, Burford, Oxfordshire, OX18 4PF.

Belle, a 9 years old female Shih Tzu available for adoption from Almost Home NI in Northern Ireland

Almost Home NI

Belle

Northern Ireland
SexFemale
Age9 years
BreedShih Tzu

Meet Belle, a 9-year-old Shih-Tzu x Lhasa Apso with a gentle, loving nature. She is a quiet little girl who enjoys nothing more than cuddles on the sofa and curling up in front of the fire after a nice long walk. Belle can struggle with anxiety if left alone for long periods, so she would be best suited to a home where someone is around for most of the day, or where she has the company of another friendly dog. She is good with people, children, and other dogs, although she can be a little shy when she first meets new people. Once she feels safe, her sweet personality really shines through. Belle is looking for a calm, loving home where she can relax, feel secure, and enjoy the comforts she loves so much. •

Benji, a 5 years old male Shih Tzu available for adoption from Ferne Animal Sanctuary in Somerset

Ferne Animal Sanctuary

Benji

Somerset
SexMale
Age5 years
BreedShih Tzu

Meet Benji – A Sweet Young Boy Waiting for His Forever Home Benji is a lovely young chap who has sadly found himself in rescue through no fault of his own. Now he’s hoping someone will see him, choose him, and give him the loving home he deserves. Benji is a wonderful companion with so much love to give. He’s house trained, walks beautifully on a loose lead, and has great recall when out and about. He travels well in the car and enjoys his walks, happily socialising with other dogs when off lead. This sweet little boy also loves being groomed and enjoys the attention that comes with it. He’s used to a home environment and is comfortable being left for short periods (around 2–3 hours) if needed. Benji has been socialised with children aged 13 and over and has previously lived with cats. All he’s missing now is someone to call his own — a family or person who will give him the time, patience, and love he’s been waiting for. If you think you could offer Benji the happy home he deserves, please apply through the rescue website. He can’t wait to meet you. ️ Read more & enquire Temperament: Sweet, friendly. Weight: 8KG.

Bert, a 8 years old male Shih Tzu available for adoption from Mid Antrim in Northern Ireland

Mid Antrim

Bert

Northern Ireland
SexMale
Age8 years
BreedShih Tzu

Name: Bert Sex: Male Age: 8 years old Breed: Shih Tzu X Size: Small (12kg) Arrival Date: 01/10/2024Name: BertSex: MaleAge: 8 years oldBreed: Shih Tzu XSize: Small (12kg)Arrival Date: 01/10/2024Bert has had some negative experiences in his life which has led to some fears around meeting new people. Bert certainly appreciates a slow introduction but he is a little guy that’s worth taking the time to get to know. This means that potential adopters would need to be prepared to make lots of visits to the Sanctuary over quite a period of time in order to build up a positive relationship with Bert.When Bert learns to trust you get to see a lovely playful little guy full of energy.Bert also struggles with some resource guarding issues so we would prefer adopters to have knowledge of resource guarding and be prepared to manage this behaviour in a positive way.Bert will be part of our Aprils Wish program so you will have the added benefit of some sessions with a highly qualified behaviourist pre- and post- adoption in an effort to help you understand and manage Bert’s issues.Due to his issues, Bert will need an adult only home.Although Bert has been an only dog we will consider homes with other dogs pending successful meet and greets.AN APPLICATION FORM MUST BE COMPLETED TO BE CONSIDERED We are open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1.30pm – 4.00pm.If you are interested in offering this dog a home and you meet the criteria listed, then please click on the following link to complete an online application or visit us during the above days and times.If you are being considered we will be in touch to arrange an appointment for you to meet the dog and start the rehoming process.All parts of the form must be completed to ensure your application can be processedIf you are being considered to commence the adoption process you will receive a call from a mobile number ending in 081; due to time constraints there will be a limited timescale to answer or respond to our message.https://midantrim.org/dog-application

Bruce, a 5 years old male Shih Tzu available for adoption from The Barn Animal Rescue in Northern Ireland

The Barn Animal Rescue

Bruce

Northern Ireland
SexMale
Age5 years
BreedShih Tzu

Bruce is a charming 5-year-old Shih Tzu who is ready to find his forever home! He’s had his first vaccine, with the second coming up soon, is microchipped, and will be neutered as part of the adoption process.Bruce is calm on his walks, making him a joy to have by your side. He can live with other dogs after a successful meeting and is suited for dog-savvy children aged 12 and older. Shih Tzus are known for their affectionate nature and gentle demeanor, making them wonderful family companions.Please remember, adopting a rescue dog like Bruce requires patience and commitment. If you’re ready to provide the love and care he deserves, we’d love to hear from you!To submit an application for Bruce, please use the link below. Let’s give this lovely boy the home he’s been waiting for!

Cherry, a 3 years old female Shih Tzu available for adoption from Silver Fox Dog Rescue in Hampshire

Silver Fox Dog Rescue

Cherry

Hampshire
SexFemale
Age3 years
BreedShih Tzu

Cherry is a female Shih TzuDate of birth 22/04/2023Foster in PadihamCherry is a very sweet but nervous girl. Humans worry her to begin with.She loves other small dogs and must be homed with at least one other confident, small, similar aged dog for her to continue to gain confidence from.She will need reminding about her toilet training to begin with and lots of socialising out and about when she is ready.Not cat testedNo childrenAn experienced, quiet home.Any resident dogs must be neutered and proof provided from your vetTo apply, there are no forms, simply message our Facebook page or email info@silverfoxdogrescue.com with full details of why you are the best home for Cherry and how you match her full criteriaWe are a dedicated team, that successfully help and rehabilitate dogs from many different backgrounds.Our DogsInfo@silverfoxdogrescue.com Tel 07941340016

Chino, a 4 years old male Shih Tzu available for adoption from Dogs Trust in Shropshire

Dogs Trust

Chino

Shropshire
SexMale
Age4 years
BreedShih Tzu

Are you right for Chino?Meet Chino, a charming and cuddly 4-year-old Jack Russell × Shih Tzu. Once he gets to know you, he becomes the ultimate lapdog and would happily spend hours soaking up affection from his favourite people. Chino is a bright and bouncy little character who approaches life with lots of energy and curiosity. He would love a home with people who understand — or are keen to learn — about dog body language, so they can really connect with his playful and expressive nature. He can feel a little nervous at the vet, so he wears his smart little muzzle to help him feel safe and comfortable. Chino would be happiest in a quieter home, where he can enjoy his own peaceful space without nearby doggy distractions.

Chocolate & Sky, a 12 years old female Shih Tzu available for adoption from Blue Cross in Oxfordshire

Blue Cross

Chocolate & Sky

Oxfordshire
SexFemale
Age12 years
BreedShih Tzu

I'm a 12-year-old Shih Tzu from Burford rehoming centre and I'm looking for my forever home. Please read my profile below to find out more.Chocolate and Sky are a mother and daughter duo on the lookout for a new home where they can enjoy retirement together.These sweet girls are rather active and enjoy two decent walks a day, sniffing hedgerows and running throughout the paddocks here at the centre, never straying far from us. They love to sit on laps and have fuss, sometimes even falling asleep if they are warm and cosy enough!Chocolate and Sky could live with children aged 12 years and above who are content to sneak them treats when they’re feeling peckish and understand when they are partaking in beauty sleep naps. They would like to be the only pets in their new home as they don’t want much from other dogs, often choosing to either ignore them or have a very quick meet before going off on their day. The girls wouldn’t like to live with cats either as they don’t enjoy their company.Both Chocolate and Sky are currently showing signs of being housetrained, however they aren’t fans of being left on their own here at the centre so new owners will need to be around for most of the day to build this up with them.If they sound like the dogs that you’ve been dreaming of, please get in touch today!Flat faced (brachycephalic) dogs suffer from additional health problems, which may impact their quality of life. We always recommend anyone thinking about adopting or buying a flat faced (brachycephalic) dog to thoroughly research the breed beforehand. Our expert team will be able to give you tips on exercise and weight management and advice on any support Chocolate and Sky may need.The best way to stay up to date with what's going on at Blue Cross is to join our mailing list.Blue Cross is a registered charity in England and Wales (224392) and in Scotland (SC040154). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales under company number 00363197. Registered address Shilton Road, Burford, Oxfordshire, OX18 4PF.

Coco, a 8 years old female Shih Tzu available for adoption from Dogs Trust in Northern Ireland

Dogs Trust

Coco

Northern Ireland
SexFemale
Age8 years
BreedShih Tzu

Are you right for Coco?Meet Coco! This lovely lady is a 13 year old Crossbreed. Coco is an older girl, but that doesn't mean she doesn't have lots of energy for fun! She loves her treats, enjoys playing with toys and is super curious meaning she is always ready to explore. Coco is looking for an adult only home where she will be the only pet. Although she wouldn't enjoy sharing a home with other dogs, she doesn't mind having walking friends or saying hello to dogs she encounters on her walks. Her adopters may need to come to the Centre for multiple meets to learn all about Coco's likes and dislikes from our Training Team. Her closest handlers say that she is a very sweet girl who has so much to offer someone. Coco has previously been happy spending a couple of hours alone, but any leaving time after adoption will need to be gradually built up once she has settled into her new home.

Cody, a 8 years old male Shih Tzu available for adoption from Ferne Animal Sanctuary in Somerset

Ferne Animal Sanctuary

Cody

Somerset
SexMale
Age8 years
BreedShih Tzu

Meet Cody – A Sweet Older Gentleman Looking for His Forever Home Cody is a gentle and affectionate older dog who came into Ferne through no fault of his own. Now he’s hoping to find a loving home where he can enjoy the comfort, care, and companionship he truly deserves. This lovely boy has so much to offer. Cody is fully house-trained, travels well in the car, and walks beautifully on a loose lead. He has great recall and enjoys his walks, especially when he can socialise with other dogs – he’s friendly with them when off lead. Cody has lived in a home environment and is used to everyday life. He’s comfortable being left for short periods (around 2–3 hours) and absolutely loves being groomed. If you’re looking for a dog who enjoys closeness and cuddles, Cody would happily be your lap companion. He has previously lived with cats and has been socialised with children aged 13 and over. Cody would make a wonderful addition to a calm, caring home where he can spend his golden years surrounded by love. If you think you could offer this sweet older chap the home he deserves, please apply online through our rescue website. Cody can’t wait to meet you. Read more & enquire Temperament: Gentle, friendly. Weight: 9KG.

Dot, a 3 years old female Shih Tzu available for adoption from Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary in Oxfordshire

Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary

Dot

Oxfordshire
SexFemale
Age3 years
BreedShih Tzu

What's Great About Dot? Dot is a real cutie who will steal your heart and home given a chance! She makes strong bonds with her people and loves to claim your lap as her throne! She has an endearing cheeky personality once she gets to know you. What Dot Needs To be the only pet in the home An adult-only home. Dot came to the sanctuary as a stray so her history is unknown. She is shy with new people and needs to slowly build trust with her new family without any pressure. Regular grooming. A private secure garden with a minimum of 4ft fencing.

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