Adopt

Shih Tzu puppies and dogs in Palo Alto, California

Looking for a Shih Tzu puppy or dog in Palo Alto, California? Adopt a Pet can help you find an adorable Shih Tzu near you.

Picture of Shih Tzu

Adopt a Shih Tzu near you in Palo Alto, California

These Shih Tzus are available in Palo Alto, California.
Photo of Flan

Flan

Shih Tzu Lhasa Apso

Male, Adult
Palo Alto, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, shots current (DHPP, Bordetella and Rabies where applicable), dewormed, flea and tick treated, and microchipped.  * If you are interested in a dog, please first read the biography on the dog (keep scrolling down for the bio!) and then go to our website, www.dpsrescue.com for an application. Our adoption fees vary. Each biography will specifically list the adoption fee.This dog will be at Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, February 8th from 12-3pm or until adopted. If you would like the first opportunity to adopt, please fill out an application to be considered.     Adoption Fee: $600   Flan is an 8 year old Shih Tzu x Lhasa Apso mix who’s as sweet as caramel and ready to make you his perfect family! Flan was surrendered to the shelter with some of his culinary companions due to a change in living circumstances. We were asked to take him in and happily agreed! We scooped up this handsome 10 pound boy and promised to find his amigos! Flan has a light shedding coat so he will require some grooming. If you’re ready to find your new favorite treat, come pick up some Flan!      Flan is a chill gentleman who can’t wait to make you his world! This dude adores his humans and according to his foster mom he is the best WFH buddy she’s ever fostered, as he is content to lounge near you during meetings. Flan is very even-tempered and fits in well to any environment he enters. He’s super flexible like that. Flan loves being outside and enjoying the sunshine but he isn’t super high energy. We call the window facing the street his “dog tv” as he amuses himself for hours watching the world go by. His current party trick is a fetch fake out… one day he will learn to bring it back he says! Flan lives life to the fullest and we know he will make every day an adventure once he joins your family! From walks to snuggles to playtime, he’s ready for it all!   Flan wakes up around 8 AM and heads out to potty with his foster siblings. After his breakfast, he goes on a short walk before he settles in for a morning nap. Flan alternates between snoozing, cuddling, playing, and sniffing around the yard for most of the day until his afternoon stroll. Dinner is served at 6 PM followed by an evening of play and cuddles. He sleeps through the night on a plush dog bed.  Flan currently lives with several dogs and cats and gets along well with them all. He would be a great companion for a home with a resident pet. Flan walks well on a leash and is working on his potty training. He loves meeting new people and is a great canine ambassador, but would do best in an adult only home. If you’re ready for a culinary companion, come and order some Flan!      Flan is an option for homes with prior dog experience. Kids should be over the age of 12.February 7, 2025, 10:27 am
Photo of Grover

Grover

Shih Tzu Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Male, Adult
Palo Alto, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, shots current (DHPP, Bordetella and Rabies where applicable), dewormed, flea and tick treated, and microchipped.  * If you are interested in a dog, please first read the biography on the dog (keep scrolling down for the bio!) and then go to our website, www.dpsrescue.com for an application. Our adoption fees vary. Each biography will specifically list the adoption fee.This dog will be at Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, February 8th from 12-3pm or until adopted. If you would like the first opportunity to adopt, please fill out an application to be considered.     Adoption Fee: $800 Meet Grover – The Snuggle Champion of the World!   If you’re looking for a dog who will adore you like a long-lost soulmate and snuggle you into submission, Grover is your guy. This 2 year old, 14-pound Shih Tzu mix may be small in size, but his heart is as big as they come. Rescued from the shelter, Grover has fully embraced the good life—lounging on the couch with the TV on, receiving endless belly rubs, and perfecting his art of being carried around like a little furry baby. He’s the kind of dog who will follow you from room to room, offering moral support even during the most mundane tasks (yes, even in the bathroom). His love language? Hugs, kisses, and more hugs.   When Grover first arrived, he was a bit anxious and wasn’t quite sure about the other humans in the house—he preferred sticking to his foster mom like Velcro. But with a little patience (and a lot of chicken toppers), he’s blossomed into a social butterfly, wagging his tail and happily seeking pets from everyone he meets. And when it comes to his furry foster siblings? Grover is the Switzerland of dogs—so calm, so peaceful, and somehow able to charm even the grumpiest of pups. Whether it’s snuggling with his tiny foster brother (who normally doesn’t share toys) or lounging next to the family’s older dog without disturbing her personal space, Grover just has a way of fitting in wherever he goes.   Now, let’s talk about his couch potato lifestyle. Playtime? Meh. Toys? No, thanks. Grover’s idea of a perfect day involves being cozied up next to you, soaking up all the love and pets he can get. He’s the ultimate bedtime companion, snoozing soundly through the night and patiently waiting for you to decide when the morning begins. Housetraining is still a work in progress—he's a fan of belly bands and occasional pee pad use—but he’s got the routine down when it comes to going outside. Grover is looking for a home where he’ll never have to be alone for too long—whether that means a doggy sibling or a human who’s ready for 24/7 cuddles. If you want a dog who will love you with his whole being and try his hardest to fit into your heart (and your bed), Grover is ready to be your forever snuggle buddy.   Grover is an option for a home that has had a dog previously. If there are children they need to be over the age of 5.                February 9, 2025, 8:55 pm
new badge
Photo of Tortellini

Tortellini

Shih Tzu

Female, Young
Palo Alto, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, shots current (DHPP, Bordetella and Rabies where applicable), dewormed, flea and tick treated, and microchipped.  * If you are interested in a dog, please first read the biography on the dog (keep scrolling down for the bio!) and then go to our website, www.dpsrescue.com for an application. Our adoption fees vary. Each biography will specifically list the adoption fee.Adoption Fee: $850 Tortellini: The Perfect Little Pasta Pup! If you’re looking for a pint-sized cuddle buddy with a big personality, meet Tortellini! This 9 month old, 8.5 pound Shih Tzu is as delightful as her name suggests. With her fluffy, non-shedding coat, she’s a great choice for allergy-sensitive homes—or anyone who just prefers to keep their furniture fur-free. But the best part? She’s got a heart as soft as a perfectly cooked noodle and is ready to bring love, laughter, and lots of snuggles into her forever home. Tortellini’s rescue story is one for the books. We got a call from the shelter, letting us know that this sweet girl was at risk—simply because she had an upset tummy and they didn’t have the meds to help her. We immediately hit the road, driving 2.5 hours to bring her to safety. After a few days of TLC and a diet that agreed with her, she blossomed into the happy, playful, and affectionate pup she was meant to be. The shelter may have been a scary place, but Tortellini never lost her spirit, and we’re grateful they reached out so we could give her a second chance. At home, Tortellini is the perfect companion. She loves spending her days lounging around the house, keeping close to her people, and occasionally showing off her new favorite trick—fetch! While she enjoys short walks (especially if she’s sporting a cozy sweater), she’s just as happy curling up next to you on the couch. At night, she sleeps peacefully in her crate nearby, but she’s adaptable and has done well in different setups. Tortellini gets along well with other dogs and has been polite, though a little wary, around cats. She’s met teenagers and done great, and while she hasn’t had much interaction with younger children yet, she’s such a sweet and friendly pup that we expect she’ll do well with a gentle introduction. She’s also doing wonderfully with potty pad training and has been an easygoing, well-mannered guest in her foster home. If you’ve ever loved a Shih Tzu, Tortellini is everything you adore about the breed and more! She’s adaptable, affectionate, and full of charm—ready to wiggle her way into the heart of her forever family. Whether you’re looking for a snuggle buddy, a loyal companion, or just a little fluffy sidekick to brighten your days, Tortellini is ready to be your perfect match. Come meet her and see why this little pasta pup is simply irresistible!February 18, 2025, 2:03 pm

Or, how about these Shih Tzus in cities near Palo Alto, California

These Shih Tzus are available for adoption close to Palo Alto, California.
Photo of Roxy

Roxy

Shih Tzu

Female, Young
San Jose, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Roxy is loving and likes to play. I trained her not to bark on my patio. She does pull on the leash at times and can bark at other dogs when on the leash. She does have papers. She is 2 years old.
Photo of Gizmo

Gizmo

Shih Tzu

Male, Senior
San Ramon, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Gizmo! Gizmo is a very sweet dog who is patiently waiting for a loving forever home! To get more information on Gizmo, please visit: https://lovesecondchances.org/adoptables/adoptable/gizmo/ Adoption fee includes spay/neuter, up to date on shots, deworming and microchipping. If you are interested in Gizmo, please fill out an application online at: https://lovesecondchances.org/applications/adoption-application/  January 25, 2025, 3:25 am
Photo of Toffee Tastic 12620

Toffee Tastic 12620

Shih Tzu

Female, 10 yrs
San Francisco, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Meet Toffee Tastic – the sweetest treat you'll ever meet! This little lady is as sweet as her name! Toffee Tastic is a gentle, friendly girl who loves making new friends—both human and furry. She gets along great with other dogs and would love a cozy home where she can cuddle up next to you. Whether it’s nap time, snack time, or a slow stroll around the block, Toffee is happy just being by your side. Looking for a loving, easygoing companion? Toffee Tastic is ready to be your forever best friend! Here's some notes from her foster: In a short time TT has gone from a very unsure girl at HQ to a confident dog in my home. She was very comfortable in the car ride to my place. In a short amount of time, she found her favorite toys and we found out that she loves to play fetch. She can jump pretty high - at least 3 feet into my bed. Very active for a 10 year old. I wouldn’t be surprised if she was actually younger. She’s comfortable with being handled, and she would love to be in a home with other dogs! Toffee adapted really quickly to her new environment, and was on our laps within like two hours. Today she's doing full on zoomies and playing like a puppy. She has not shown any guarding of either of us either, so she seems happy in a multi-human household. We've only had one brief barking episode when she heard a sound in the hall, but it stopped quickly, so barking really hasn't been a problem. She's a really sweet and happy girl once she feels comfortable with you. And she has LOTS of energy and life in her. She'll make a great companion.
Photo of Alex

Alex

Shih Tzu Dachshund

Male, 4 mos
Lafayette, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Alex! Alex is a delightful 4-month-old puppy looking for his forever family. He got a rough start in life, given away far too young in front of a convenience store in Fresno. Thankfully, a kind soul intervened, keeping Alex and his siblings safe with their mama. Now thriving in foster care in the Bay Area, Alex is ready to find a home filled with love and adventure. This adorable, likely Shih Tzu-dachshund mix weighs about 6 pounds and is expected to grow to 14 pounds or less, just like his mama, a dachshund Chiweenie. While his dad is a mystery, he must have had some non-shedding genes, giving Alex a low-shed coat that doesn’t require professional grooming but will benefit from regular brushing. Personality & Looks: Alex is one of the two boys in the litter, with a striking salt-and-pepper coat that’s primarily black. He’s spunky, affectionate, and loves to wrestle and play. Alex is dog-, cat-, and kid-friendly, making him a wonderful fit for many family dynamics. He’s almost ready to start formal training and walks and will thrive in a home that provides structure, time, and plenty of opportunities for playtime. Alex would do best in a home with another dog to learn from and keep him entertained, as he’s happiest with a constant play companion. We’re looking for a family who: - Has the time and resources to commit to training and socialization. - Doesn’t work 8-hour days outside the home. - Has a yard for Alex to romp in. Alex has come so far and deserves the very best. If you’re ready for unconditional love and puppy antics, Alex might be your perfect match! In the event your application isn't accepted or might be a better fit for another dog, we will provide feedback and suggest alternative matches. Your application remains active for 90 days, allowing consideration for other dogs in our care. Simply email us if there is another dog you would like your application to be applied to. [Apply Now](http://form.jotform.com/underdogca/dog-adoption-application) For application forwarding requests or any specific inquiries, you can contact us at adopt@underdogca.com. This email is also the preferred channel for additional information submissions or document uploads. All our dogs undergo comprehensive vetting, including spaying/neutering, microchipping, DHPP, flea treatment, deworming, and Rabies vaccinations. Additional vet care is provided as needed based on their requirements. The adoption fee for this dog is $550 serving as a non-refundable donation. Adoption fees may vary based on factors such as vetting costs, transport, and age. Stay connected with us through our website at [www.underdogca.com](http://www.underdogca.com) or follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@underdogca): [Underdog CA Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/underdogCA) [Underdog CA Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/underdogca) Thank you for considering adoption and being a part of our mission to provide loving homes for these deserving underdogs!
Photo of Spike

Spike

Shih Tzu Dachshund

Male, 4 mos
Lafayette, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Spike! Spike is a charming 4-month-old puppy eager to find his forever family. His journey began with a rough start, given away too young in front of a convenience store in Fresno. Thankfully, a kindhearted person stepped in, ensuring Spike and his siblings stayed safe with their mama. Now thriving in foster care in the Bay Area, Spike is ready to bring joy and adventure to his new home. This adorable, likely Shih Tzu-dachshund mix currently weighs about 6 pounds and is expected to grow to 14 pounds or less, just like his mama, a dachshund Chiweenie. While his dad’s breed is a mystery, Spike’s low-shed coat hints at non-shedding genes, possibly from a Maltese or Shih Tzu. His coat doesn’t need professional grooming but will shine with regular brushing. Personality & Looks: Spike is one of the two boys in the litter and shares a striking salt-and-pepper coat with primarily black fur, making him quite the standout. He’s a playful, affectionate pup who loves to wrestle, explore, and cuddle. Spike is dog-, cat-, and kid-friendly, making him a wonderful fit for various family types. Spike is nearly ready to start formal training and will thrive in a home that offers structure, time, and space for play. Like his siblings, he does best with another dog to learn from and keep him entertained—he’s happiest with a constant companion for playtime and snuggles. We’re looking for a family who: - Has the time and commitment to focus on training and socialization. - Doesn’t work long hours outside the home. - Has a yard for Spike to enjoy. Spike has already come a long way and deserves a loving home where he can truly thrive. If you’re ready to welcome a loyal, lively, and lovable companion, Spike might just be the one for you! In the event your application isn't accepted or might be a better fit for another dog, we will provide feedback and suggest alternative matches. Your application remains active for 90 days, allowing consideration for other dogs in our care. Simply email us if there is another dog you would like your application to be applied to. [Apply Now](http://form.jotform.com/underdogca/dog-adoption-application) For application forwarding requests or any specific inquiries, you can contact us at adopt@underdogca.com. This email is also the preferred channel for additional information submissions or document uploads. All our dogs undergo comprehensive vetting, including spaying/neutering, microchipping, DHPP, flea treatment, deworming, and Rabies vaccinations. Additional vet care is provided as needed based on their requirements. The adoption fee for this dog is $550 serving as a non-refundable donation. Adoption fees may vary based on factors such as vetting costs, transport, and age. Stay connected with us through our website at [www.underdogca.com](http://www.underdogca.com) or follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@underdogca): [Underdog CA Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/underdogCA) [Underdog CA Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/underdogca) Thank you for considering adoption and being a part of our mission to provide loving homes for these deserving underdogs!

These pups are in Palo Alto, California too!

Below are our newest added Shih Tzus available for adoption in Palo Alto, California. To see more adoptable Shih Tzus in Palo Alto, California, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria!
Photo of Teddy Bear

Teddy Bear

Papillon Corgi

Male, Adult
Palo Alto, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids, Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, shots current (DHPP, Bordetella and Rabies where applicable), dewormed, flea and tick treated, and microchipped.  * If you are interested in a dog, please first read the biography on the dog (keep scrolling down for the bio!) and then go to our website, www.dpsrescue.com for an application. Our adoption fees vary. Each biography will specifically list the adoption fee.This dog will be at Palo Alto Pet Food Express on Saturday, January 25th from 12-3pm or until adopted. If you would like the first opportunity to adopt, please fill out an application to be considered.   Adoption Fee: $500  *Teddy is an option for Foster-to-Adopt!   Teddy Bear is a 1-2 year old Papillon x Corgi mix who is as soft and cuddly as can be! TB was rescued from the shelter after his former home no longer wanted him past the puppy stages. This poor boy was very shut down when we saved him but we promised that his future would be amazing. Teddy Bear weighs 20 pounds and every ounce is full of cuteness and charm. He is absolutely adorable and he makes heads turn when he walks into the room.    Teddy Bear is a quiet and loving boy who is looking for a home ready to help him bloom! When he arrived at our rescue, he was very shy and skittish, not really sure what the world around him had to offer. After a few days of watching the resident family dogs, he started to come out of his shell and enjoy all the treats and snuggles we have to shower him with. However, interested homes should be ready to wait him out rather than force him to engage right away. You will need to go at his pace to see the amazing boy we know he is. Teddy would benefit from a home where his chosen human is almost always home as he has some (understandable) separation anxiety due to his past before rescue. We will be looking for a home who understands shy dogs and can demonstrate their readiness for Teddy Bear.  Teddy Bear has started playing with toys and loves squeaking his plushies. He would love a home where he can have all the toys and beds he desires! He is on the lower end of the energy scale, but we think he would be up for adventures once he feels more confident on a leash, though as of now he prefers the backyard. He is so soft and fluffy, it’s hard to resist running your hands through his pillowy fur. If you want kisses at the same time, he can even make that happen!  Teddy Bear starts his morning at 6:30 AM and checks out the house as his foster mom starts her day. He has breakfast at 8 AM and then goes out for some sun and potty time. During the day, TB’s ideal spot is under the desk as his foster mom works. He also loves to hang out with the resident dogs. He’s been getting his wrestling on as he gains his confidence. TB took a few days to figure out snuggling but now he jumps on the couch for cuddles without hesitation. After some TV time, Teddy Bear goes out for one last potty trip and sniff around the yard. He goes to his crate for the night at 10 PM and snoozes the night away.  Teddy adores his canine foster siblings and has gained a lot of confidence following them around. He loves dogs of all sizes and has even begun initiating play. Teddy needs support as he learns how to walk on a leash and gain his confidence, but we know the end results will be so gratifying. This loving boy can’t wait for you to take him off the shelf and bring him home!      Teddy is only an option for those who currently own a dog, as he needs a buddy to mirror, or a home where his human is always home. We are seeking an experienced home ready to work with Teddy Bear. Adults only for Mr. Teddy. February 10, 2025, 5:41 pm

Search for a Shih Tzu puppy or dog

Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Shih Tzu puppies and adults Shih Tzu in Palo Alto, California.

Shih Tzu puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Related breeds in Palo Alto, California

Shih Tzu shelters & rescues in Palo Alto, California

There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for Shih Tzu puppies in Palo Alto, California. Browse these Shih Tzu rescues and shelters below.

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

1.9 miles

Doggie Protective Services (DPS Rescue)

Palo Alto, CA 94306

Pet Types: cats, dogs, farm animals

More an arrow icon

Rescue

21.3 miles

Love & Second Chances

San Ramon, CA 94582

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

27.4 miles

Muttville

255 Alabama Street, San Francisco, CA 94103

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

31.8 miles

Underdog Animal rescue

PO Box 1518, Lafayette, CA 94549

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Looking for a specific shelter or rescue?

If you're not seeing what you're looking for, try our shelter and rescue search. We have more than 17,000 organizations in our database with furry pals waiting for a new home!

magnifying glass with cat and dog

Want to learn more about adopting a Shih Tzu puppy or dog?

We've got all the info you need on adopting and caring for a Shih Tzu puppy. Check out the links below for everything you ever wanted to know about Shih Tzu puppies and adults.

Shih Tzu basics

clipboard with list

Where do Shih Tzus come from? How many types of Shih Tzus are there? From the history of the breed to question about average height, weight and size, brush up on these basic facts about the Shih Tzu.

Learn More an arrow icon