Shih Tzus are one of the most adoption-friendly small breeds in Calgary rescues. Bred as palace lap dogs in 17th-century China, they are calm, affectionate, and naturally suited to apartment life. Adult Shih Tzus typically weigh 9-16 lbs, stand 8-11 inches tall, and live 10-16 years. They form strong bonds with their families, get along well with children and other pets, and are content with moderate exercise (two 20-30 minute walks daily). They are one of the few small breeds that genuinely fit the "good first dog" profile if you can commit to their grooming demands.
Shih Tzus end up in Calgary rescues for predictable reasons: senior owner downsizing or passing (Shih Tzus often outlive their elderly owners), allergies in the household, "puppy was a gift" mismatches, retired breeder dogs from puppy mill closures, and overwhelm with grooming demands. Shih Tzu adoption fees in Calgary range $200-$500 — a fraction of the $2,000-$3,500 breeder price. Calgary Humane Society, AARCS, BARCS, and Pawsitive Match all see Shih Tzus and Shih Tzu mixes regularly.
Shih Tzu mixes are at least as common as purebreds in Calgary rescues. The Bichon Shih (also called Shichon, Teddy Bear, or Zuchon) crosses Shih Tzu with Bichon Frise — typically 9-15 lbs, lower-shedding, and often labeled "hypoallergenic-friendly" (though no dog is fully hypoallergenic). The Shih Poo (Shih Tzu + Toy or Miniature Poodle) is another popular cross with a curlier, lower-shedding coat. Various small-breed Shih Tzu mixes (Shih Tzu/Maltese, Shih Tzu/Yorkie/Maltipoo combinations) appear regularly. Read each rescue's temperament notes — mix dogs inherit a blend of parent traits, but the foster's observations matter more than the breed label.
All Shih Tzus and Shih Tzu mixes listed below are sourced from 13+ Calgary-area rescues. Listings update every 2 hours. Because Shih Tzus are popular and small, they often get adopted within days of listing — set up alerts or check daily during your search.
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Shih Tzu Adoption FAQ
Where can I adopt a Shih Tzu in Calgary?
Shih Tzus appear regularly across 13+ Calgary rescues including Calgary Humane Society, AARCS, BARCS, Pawsitive Match, and Calgary Animal Rescue. Senior-focused rescues like Happy's Place also occasionally take Shih Tzus. The listings on this page aggregate all currently available Shih Tzus and Shih Tzu mixes — updates every 2 hours. The most common Calgary Shih Tzu surrender reasons: elderly owner downsizing, allergies, "gift puppy" mismatches, and grooming-overwhelm. See our Shih Tzu adoption guide for the full Calgary playbook.
Are Shih Tzus good apartment dogs?
Yes — Shih Tzus are one of the best apartment-friendly breeds. Calm temperament, low-to-moderate exercise needs (two 20-30 minute walks daily), small size that fits Calgary condo weight limits (most are 9-16 lbs), and minimal barking compared to Yorkies or Pomeranians. They were bred as indoor companion dogs and are content lounging on a couch most of the day. Two caveats: they do shed (long single-layer coat needs daily brushing) and some have separation anxiety as velcro lap dogs. They handle stairs well and don't need a yard.
Are Shih Tzus hypoallergenic?
Often tolerated by people with mild dog allergies, but no dog is fully hypoallergenic. Shih Tzus have a single coat of hair (not fur) with minimal shedding — both reduce dander and saliva-protein exposure. People with mild allergies often tolerate Shih Tzus well. Severe allergies, asthma triggered by dogs, or specific protein allergies (Can f 1) may still react. Bichon Shih (Shichon) and Shih Poo mixes are typically considered lower-allergen due to the Bichon/Poodle parent. Before adopting: 2-3 hour visit with the specific dog, in your home if possible, then 48-hour wait for delayed allergic response. Calgary rescues sometimes arrange "trial" foster periods specifically for allergy compatibility — ask.
How much grooming does a Shih Tzu need?
Significant. Shih Tzus need daily brushing if kept in a long coat (the breed standard show coat reaches the floor), professional grooming every 4-8 weeks ($60-$95 in Calgary), and most pet owners keep them in a "puppy cut" (1-2 inches all over) for easier maintenance. Eye and face care is daily — Shih Tzus have prominent eyes prone to tear stains, mucus buildup, and corneal ulcers if facial hair isn't trimmed back. Topknot or face-tie required if hair grows over eyes. Anal glands need attention every 4-8 weeks. Many owners learn to do home maintenance (face/sanitary trims, bath, brushing) between professional groomings to save cost. See our Shih Tzu grooming Calgary guide for the full protocol.
How long do Shih Tzus live?
Shih Tzus typically live 10-16 years, with many reaching 14-18 with good care. They are among the longer-lived toy breeds, which is one reason they often outlive elderly owners and end up in Calgary rescues. Common Shih Tzu health issues to watch for: brachycephalic breathing problems (short flat snout), eye conditions (proptosis from head trauma, corneal ulcers from facial hair, dry eye), severe dental disease (small jaw + retained baby teeth), intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), renal dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and skin allergies. Annual vet visits and dental cleanings starting around age 2-3 catch most issues early. See our Shih Tzu health issues Calgary guide for the full breakdown of breed-specific conditions and Calgary surgery costs.
Are Shih Tzus good with kids?
Generally yes — Shih Tzus are one of the better small breeds for households with children, especially older kids (6+). They have a sturdy, compact build (less fragile than Yorkies or Chihuahuas), tolerate handling well, and have a calm temperament. Caveats: very young children (under 5) should always be supervised — Shih Tzus can snap defensively if handled roughly, and their prominent eyes are vulnerable to accidental finger pokes. Teach children to respect the dog's space, sleeping area, and food bowl. Calgary rescues fostering Shih Tzus typically note kid-compatibility in their profiles. Bichon Shih (Shichon) mixes are often chosen specifically for families with kids due to their playful, sturdy temperament.