7 Best Shih Tzu Pet Rescue Options in the U.S.
- Molly Weinfurter
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
I have an adorable little Shih Tzu named Mabel, and people often stop me while we’re walking to say how cute she is. Sometimes, I worry that people assume I got her from a breeder because she doesn’t look like a “typical rescue dog.” But all dog breeds can end up at shelters and rescues, including Shih Tzus of all ages and colors. So, I decided to create a list of some of the best Shih Tzu pet rescues in the U.S. to help people find a Shih Tzu looking for a home.
Is There a Shih Tzu Rescue?
Yes, there are several rescues that specialize in helping Shih Tzus. Oftentimes, they’ll also take Shih Tzu mixes and similar breeds. Of course, all rescues and shelters can end up with this breed (I got Mabel from a regular rescue, not a breed-specific one), but you’ll have a better chance of finding this specific breed at these rescues.
Why Should You Choose a Shih Tzu Rescue Over a Breeder?
I always recommend checking out rescues and shelters because most of the time, there’s already a dog looking for a home that fits exactly what you’re looking for. People tend to assume that all rescue dogs have “problems” and that’s just not the case.
Sure, many dogs require extra patience and training, but that should be expected from any dog adjusting to a new environment, even if you get them from a breeder. Mabel was young, healthy, potty trained, and social when I adopted her, which I think is about as “perfect” as you can get (but of course, I’m biased because she’s my dog).
Plus, there are a lot of unethical breeders out there. Sadly, many Shih Tzu breeders are breeding just for looks and popularity, which causes them to focus on appearance more than health and socialization. While I would never personally suggest a breeder, I know some people will still go that route, so if you do, please make sure you’re careful and avoid puppy mills.
Shih Tzu Pet Rescues in the U.S.
Here are some of the Shih Tzu rescues that I’m aware of. If you know of a great one that I haven’t listed, please contact me so I can get it added.
Location: Wisconsin, Iowa, Indiana, and Illinois
Foster-Based?: Yes
Adoption Process: Application, reference check, and home visit
I live in Wisconsin, so this is a Shih Tzu pet rescue in my area. They have foster homes across the Midwest, so make sure to check where the dog is being fostered since you need to travel there to meet the dog. While they specialize in Shih Tzus, they also take in other small breeds.
Location: Minnesota
Foster-Based?: Yes
Adoption Process: Fill out an application and volunteers will review it
This Shih Tzu rescue has a mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome Shih Tzus and Shih Tzu mixes. While they’re based in Minnesota, they’re willing to help Shih Tzus in other states as well, as long as they have a foster home lined up. The dogs come from a variety of situations, including owner surrenders, strays, puppy mill rescues, and transports from shelters.
Location: Minnesota
Foster-Based?: Yes
Adoption Process: Complete adoption form with references
This is another Shih Tzu pet rescue in Minnesota. While it’s based in Tonka Bay, dogs live in foster homes across the state. They can only help dogs in need if people are available to foster, so like most dog rescues, they’re always on the lookout for volunteers.
Location: Georgia
Foster-Based?: Yes
Adoption Process: Application with additional steps after
Even though Shih Tzu is in the name, this rescue takes other small breeds in addition to Shih Tzus. They believe that there’s a home for every dog, so they work hard to help dogs find adopters that fit their needs.
Location: Michigan (foster homes across the U.S.)
Foster-Based?: Yes
Adoption Process: Application, initial screenings, and home visit
LAHPSTR is based in Michigan, but they have foster homes across the country. So, I recommend checking it out to see if there are any Shih Tzus available near you. They rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome Shih Tzus and Lhasa Apsos, but sometimes other small, fluffy breeds too. They also have a Forever Foster program to give sanctuary when adoption isn’t possible.
Location: Texas (Dallas-Forth Worth area)
Foster-Based?: Yes
Adoption Process: Application, reference check, and home visit
Tzu Zoo Rescue works closely with local Texas shelters to pull dogs, freeing up space in the crowded shelters. They primarily focus on Shih Tzus and Lhasa Apsos. These dogs stay in temporary foster homes where they receive the love they deserve while they wait for the perfect forever home to become available.
Location: Central Wisconsin
Foster-Based?: Yes
Adoption Process: Application, reference check, and home visit
This is another rescue near me, and I’ve seen their booths at rescue events before. They’re completely foster-based with no physical shelter, so you can only meet the dogs if there’s an event or if you have an approved application. They take in Shih Tzus of all ages, and they’re always looking for new foster homes.
Don’t see a Shih Tzu pet rescue that’s convenient for you? Search on Petfinder or Adopt-a-Pet using the breed and location filters. Shih Tzus can appear at regular shelters and rescues too, not just breed-specific ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Do Shih Tzu Rescues Have Complicated Application Processes?
Rescues often have complex application processes because adopting a pet is a big deal. You’re adding a member to your family, not buying a product. So, rescues often take extra precautions to ensure the dogs are going to the best homes possible. I know it can seem tedious, but it shows that they genuinely care where the dogs end up.
Why are There So Many Shih Tzu Rescues in the Midwest?
There are a lot of dog rescues in the Midwest, including Shih Tzu rescues, because dogs get adopted faster there. Southern shelters are often overcrowded and forced to put dogs down, so rescues in northern states will transport dogs out of those shelters to free up space.
What is the 3-3-3 Rule When You Adopt a Shih Tzu?
Rescue dogs typically take 3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to learn the routine, and 3 months to feel at home. Every dog adjusts at a different pace, but this rule is good to keep in mind because patience is always a priority when an animal adjusts to a new environment.
What’s the Life Expectancy of a Shih Tzu?
The AKC lists the Shih Tzu’s life expectancy as 10 to 18 years, which is a pretty big range for a dog breed. The lifespan greatly depends on the dog’s health and care. I’ve seen many Shih Tzus live long lifespans (and I really hope my Shih Tzu rescue is one of them).
What Health Risks Do Shih Tzus Face?
Common health concerns for Shih Tzus include breathing issues, eye infections, dental disease, luxating patella, and hip dysplasia. Make sure you take your Shih Tzu to the vet for annual checkups to catch any health concerns early on.
There are Lots of Shih Tzu Rescues
Shih Tzus are a beloved breed, so it’s no surprise that there are several organizations dedicating their time to rescuing them. If you’re looking to adopt a Shih Tzu in the U.S., consider supporting one of these Shih Tzu pet rescues. Otherwise, you can always check local shelters and rescues to see if they have Shih Tzus available. Consider branching out to other breeds too - sometimes the perfect dog for you isn’t the one you expect.
