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

22 dogs available
Bailey, a 6 years old male Shih Tzu available for adoption from Dogs Trust in Greater Manchester

Dogs Trust

Bailey

Greater Manchester
SexMale
Age6 years
BreedShih Tzu

Are you right for Bailey?Bailey is a 6-year-old Shih Tzu x Chihuahua looking for a home with his best friend Diego. They are looking for a home with more than one person and would love their own private secure garden. They can be nervous around new people so would prefer their new home to have minimal visitors and ability to separate them from the front door. They love to be together but can be worried and vocal around other dogs so would prefer to be the only dogs in the home. They can live with upper secondary school aged children. They would prefer a cat free home but could live with small animals if kept separate. They can be left for short periods once settled.Is Bailey right for you?Bailey is a sensitive boy but once he gets to know you he’ll show you his affectionate side. He loves to snooze on the sofa or sunbathe in the garden. Bailey is quite under socialised so can be worried when meeting new people or seeing dogs out on his walks and is very vocal. We have started some training to help build his confidence and they would love a home who have the time and patience to continue this training. He would love a home that has access to walks in quieter areas. Bailey and Diego have so much potential to really flourish in their new home and they have double the love to offer their new adopters. They are currently enjoying their home comforts in a foster home and so aren’t currently at the centre.

Bella 2, a 10 years old female Shih Tzu available for adoption from Mayflower Sanctuary in South Yorkshire

Mayflower Sanctuary

Bella 2

South Yorkshire
SexFemale
Age10 years
BreedShih Tzu

This girl is small but mighty! She has a massive personality, as any typical Shihtzu does.. She can be a little vocal, but she just likes to make sure she gets what she wants! In true Terrier fashion, she still very much acts like a youngster – active and bright. She does love to play with toys, but theres no telling if Bella will share them with you – that’s up to her! She does need to be the only dog in the home; however she could possibly still go on walks with other dogs. An adult only home for Bella please.

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

Bertie, a 1 year old male Shih Tzu available for adoption from Dogs Trust in County Durham

Dogs Trust

Bertie

County Durham
SexMale
Age1 year
BreedShih Tzu

Are you right for Bertie?Bertie is looking for patient, committed adopters who understand that building trust takes time. He will need an adult-only home with few visitors and a calm, predictable routine where he can continue his training and grow in confidence. His ideal home will be in a quiet location with access to peaceful walking areas away from busy roads and other dogs. Bertie will need to be the only pet in the home, and his adopters should be happy to follow his behaviour plan, including gradual introductionsIs Bertie right for you?Bertie is a fun, affectionate young lad with so much potential. Once he knows you, he absolutely loves fuss, playtime and spending quality time with his favourite people. One of his favourite things in the world is his toys, and he's always happiest when there's a toy to carry, chase or play with. His playful, cheeky personality really shines through as his confidence grows. Although Bertie can be anxious in unfamiliar situations, with kindness, consistency and ongoing training he continues to make fantastic progress. Watching him relax, learn and enjoy life is incredibly rewarding, and for the right person he'll make a loyal, loving companion who will always be by your side.

Blaze, a 10 years old male Shih Tzu available for adoption from Dogs Trust in Merseyside

Dogs Trust

Blaze

Merseyside
SexMale
Age10 years
BreedShih Tzu

Are you right for Blaze?Blaze can live with a suitable dog and children of high school age. He is house and crate trained and can be left alone for a short while, an hour or two. Blaze has a few mostly age related health conditions including, arthritis, spondylosis and yeast infections in his ears. He also has hip dysplasia, and some skin and dry eye conditions and he requires various medications. Blaze also requires a hypoallergenic diet and regular trips to the groomers.Is Blaze right for you?Blaze is a lovely older gent who knows quite a few tricks that he likes to show off. He's a very relaxed boy and gets along with everyone and is happily sharing his kennel with an older Spaniel. He enjoys a happy potter about and will occasionally break into a run when he's off lead! He is very patient throughout all his veterinary prodding and poking and having his topical meds administered daily. Blaze has been known to chew if left for too long in his home so he'll need a family who won't leave him by himself for more than an hour or two, or his own little area at home where he can't get up to mischief. Blaze may be 10 now but he's still a playful lad who likes to chase after rubber balls that bounce around. He will contentedly play by himself but will also bring you a toy and invite you along.

Bonnie, a 14 years old female Shih Tzu available for adoption from Dogs Trust in Wales

Dogs Trust

Bonnie

Wales
SexFemale
Age14 years
BreedShih Tzu

Are you right for Bonnie?Bonnie is a 14 year old Shih Tzu with a young spirit and plenty of love to give. She may be a senior, but you certainly wouldn't know it! She enjoys short potter walks where she can take her time exploring all the interesting sights and smells, and she loves playing with her toys before having a good roll around in her cozy bed. Bonnie has sadly missed out on a lot in life as her previous owner wasn't able to give her all the care she needed, so many everyday experiences are still new to her. It's been lovely to watch her discover the world and grow in confidence. Bonnie is an independent little lady who is happy to do her own thing, but she also enjoys having her people nearby. She isn't overly interested in other dogs, although she's happy to be around them and simply carries on with whatever she's doing she she could potentially live with a calm and gentle resident dog in the home pending a successful meet at the centre. Bonnie has lived around calm, respectful children before and is comfortable with them being part of the home. Bonnie is toilet trained and settles well when left for short periods. She's currently happy being left for up to two hours and, with a gradual build-up in her new home, this could potentially increase to around four hours. Bonnie is looking for a kind and patient family who will continue introducing her to all the little things she's missed out on. In return, you'll gain a gentle, funny little companion who deserves to spend her golden years feeling safe, loved and cherished.Is Bonnie right for you?Bonnie is a lovely older lady who still has plenty of personality and enjoys the little things in life. She is looking for a quiet, loving home where she can relax, feel safe and continue enjoying new experiences. If you’re looking for a sweet, independent companion with a gentle nature and lots of character, Bonnie could be the perfect addition to your family.

Honey, a 9 years old female Shih Tzu x Maltese available for adoption from RSPCA in Nottinghamshire

RSPCA

Honey

Nottinghamshire
SexFemale
Age9 years
BreedShih Tzu x Maltese

Honey is a lovely 9-year-old Maltese Cross Shih Tzu who is looking for a calm and comfortable home where she can enjoy plenty of company and affection.Honey is a confident, gentle and laid-back girl who loves being around people. She enjoys a fuss and a cuddle and is happiest spending time with her human friends. She walks beautifully on the lead and enjoys relaxed pottering rather than energetic adventures.She is friendly around other dogs and could potentially live with a calm, similar-sized dog, provided they have enough space and resources. Honey could also live with a dog-savvy cat following suitable introductions.Due to her age and relaxed nature, Honey would prefer a quieter household where someone is around for most of the day. She would be best suited to older children, although younger children may be considered if they are calm and gentle around dogs.Honey has had dental treatment while in our care, and her new family will receive advice on caring for her teeth and supporting her as an older dog.If you’re looking for a sweet, affectionate companion who enjoys the quieter side of life, Honey could be the perfect addition to your home.

Jasmine, a 5 years old female Shih Tzu available for adoption from Many Tears Animal Rescue in Wales

Many Tears Animal Rescue

Jasmine

Wales
SexFemale
Age5 years
BreedShih Tzu

08-08-26 Jasmine has come to us from a breeder to find the loving forever home she deserves. She is a lovely little lady who is understandably a little worried by all the recent changes in her life. Despite this, she is growing in confidence each day and will slowly approach you for a gentle fuss, showing the sweet nature that is waiting to blossom.Jasmine is looking for a calm and quiet home with adopters who have experience of ex-breeding dogs and understand that she will need time, patience and reassurance to settle into her new life. She is a gentle soul who will thrive with a family who are happy to let her build confidence at her own pace.She will need another kind and confident resident dog in her new home to help show her the ropes and reassure her as she adjusts to her new life. Having a canine companion will give Jasmine the confidence she needs as she learns that the world can be a safe and happy place.She has never lived in a home before, so her adopters will need to be patient and understanding while she learns all about home life and new skills like house training. She has not yet learnt to walk on a lead or harness, so this will need to be introduced gradually and positively once she has settled into her new surroundings.Jasmine is a truly sweet little girl who is already beginning to come out of her shell and we think whoever adopts her will adore her.When Jasmine arrived, she was walking with a noticeable limp and struggling to use her right hind leg. Our vets found that an old injury had healed with significant scar tissue, which was restricting her movement and preventing her from fully extending her leg. Jasmine has since undergone surgery to remove some of the excess scarred tissue. She is recovering well and is now using her leg much more. She will need to continue building up the muscle in her leg, but we are really pleased with her progress. She may always have a slightly unusual gait due to her old injury, but this certainly doesn’t stop her from getting on with life! Jasmine also has an old healed break in her tail.Jasmine has a travel document.Jasmine has been given the Gift of Life by Marjory Dexter

Lemon Pie, a 4 years old female Shih Tzu available for adoption from Many Tears Animal Rescue in Wales

Many Tears Animal Rescue

Lemon Pie

Wales
SexFemale
Age4 years
BreedShih Tzu

Lemon Pie is an absolute heartbreaker who came to us from a breeder and initially found it difficult to settle into her new environment. We believe this was partly due to discomfort in her right eye, which has since been removed. She has recovered well from her surgery and already seems much more comfortable. She has corneal scarring on her left eye that will need to be monitored for any future issues that may arise, but she is able to see around it well for now.Lemon Pie has now moved to a foster home and is making lovely, gentle progress. She arrived as a very scared little girl who adored the company of the other dogs but didn't want to be close to people. She would spend much of her day in the garden or the kitchen, quietly watching her foster carer from a distance. With time, patience, and understanding, she has already started to show just how brave she can be. She is now happy to stay in the same room as her foster carer and no longer feels the need to run away whenever someone moves nearby. She will accept gentle strokes in the night when in her fosterers bed, but isn't ready for this in the daytime yet. Lemon Pie lives alongside two cats in her foster home and she is not bothered by their presence.Lemon Pie can still be sensitive to touch and may shy away from hands, suggesting that she may not always have been treated with the kindness she deserves. She needs adopters who will allow her to build trust at her own pace and never rush or overwhelm her. Every small step she takes is a huge achievement, and she continues to grow in confidence each day.Having never lived in a home before moving to foster, Lemon Pie will need understanding adopters who can guide her through all the new experiences and routines of family life. At the moment, harness and lead walking are still a little way off, and her foster carers are allowing her to progress entirely at her own pace. She absolutely loves pottering around the secure garden, where she feels safe and can explore without pressure. As her confidence continues to grow, we are sure she will be ready to take on new adventures in time.Lemon Pie absolutely adores other dogs and takes enormous comfort from their company. She loves sharing her food bowl and curling up to sleep alongside her doggy friends, so having at least one kind and confident resident dog in her forever home is essential. They will provide her with the reassurance and confidence she needs as she continues to blossom. She could live with older, dog-savvy teenagers who will respect her space and understand that she needs time to settle.Lemon Pie is an incredibly deserving little girl who has already shown how much progress she can make when given patience and understanding. She is looking for a calm, loving home where she can continue to build trust at her own pace and finally enjoy the happy life she has always deserved.Lemon Pie has a travel document.Lemon Pie has been given the Gift of Life by Sarah Hicklin

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