Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs,
Needs experienced adopter,
Spayed or Neutered,
Shots are up-to-date,
Story
PLEASE READ THIS PROFILE AND THE REQUESTED CRITERIA BEFORE CALLING OR SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION. THANKS FOR YOUR ATTENTION AND CONSIDERATION
MEET KAI! A 3 yr old, tan/white, 14.5 lb, adorable Shih Tzu, who came from the streets of San Bernardino with no history. We learned that the foster who found him crated him for 20 hours a day for a week, and by the time he came to us, he had developed more anxiety and fear. Fortunately, we found a trainer who helped get him through most of his issues. However, she was unable to finish his training, so he is still a bit reactive to other dogs. We are working on this and once he is okay, he basically ignores them.
Kai is a smart, friendly dog who does his best with regular exercise and dedicated attention — and he needs a patient, experienced home that will give him time to acclimate. If he gets bored or is not stimulated he will revert to bad behavior. Insufficient physical activity can lead to heightened anxiety, so he needs an active home that will engage him. Kai gets super excited when you come home or it’s feeding time! He is a foodie and is very motivated by treats!
Kai is OK interacting with calm dogs and is friendly with people and children after an introduction. Encounters with dogs on the street and/or leashed require ongoing reinforcement, as he becomes overly excited and will dart toward them, sometimes resulting in a nip. However, once allowed to familiarize himself, sniff and settle, he doesn’t pay much attention to them. Treats definitely help! He just needs parameters and he will be an outstanding citizen!
While we don’t always recommend crates, some dogs consider them a “safe cave,” especially if that is how they are trained. Initially, Kai had barking issues, which have definitely settled, and he can be comfortable with another dog (of his choosing) who he can bond to. He has specific commands (YES!!) that he readily responds to, which should always be a part of your relationship.
Kai’s favorite and never changing thing is to collect squeaky toys and empty water bottles! He is comfortable engaging in training, but may demonstrate nipping behavior when teased or overly stimulated. He’s like a puppy at times, teething on your hands/fingers. He can be very moody (at least with me!) His guarding issues with toys has dissipated (people and dogs) for the most part, but not with food. Take it slow and watch his body language. He’ll let you know. If you hear a growl, back off!
An active home, with another small, playful pup and a firm yet gentle guidance, patience, and ample acclimation time has proven to be the ticket for Kai. While he is motivated by food and toys, his main drive is to please people. Could this be your next family member? He’s available now (to the right home!)
Our website is updated daily. Please do not apply for this dog unless your home fits the specified criteria. All of our dogs are spayed/neutered, microchipped, groomed, vet checked, dewormed, deflea'd and come with a leash, collar and ID
If you are interested in adopting a pup from Lhasa Happy Homes, please complete the Adoption Application before calling. We will contact you once it has been reviewed.
Lhasa Happy Homes will be now holding our adoption events the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month on Main Street in Santa Monica (check calendar link below for special events and directions). Our event is located at 2116 Main Street, in Santa Monica, CA. Here you will have an opportunity to interact with the dogs and see which might be a perfect fit with your household. Main Street is famous for its innovative shops and is close to the beach! Make a day of it!! Metered parking on the street and free parking on 4th and Bicknell Streets.
Here you will have an opportunity to interact with the dogs and see which might be a perfect fit with your household....and do some fantastic shopping at the same time! Please do call us if you are coming to see a particular dog to make sure he/she will be at adoptions (we do not bring sick dogs to our adoption events). Please bring pictures or video of your home and yard if we have not done a home check (preferred)! Most importantly, if you have a dog, make sure you bring him or her to do a compatibility match with the dog you are interested in adopting!
Don't forget to check out our Events Calendar for more information on upcoming events!
See our home page for more details about our adoptions at Lhasa Happy Homes
Thanks for thinking rescue and adoption and for considering saving a life. It will be the best gift you ever give yourself or your family.
