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Shih Tzu puppies and dogs in San Diego, California

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

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Adopt a Shih Tzu near you in San Diego, California

These Shih Tzus are available in San Diego, California.
We'll also keep you updated on Yuki's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Yuki

Yuki

Shih Tzu

Male, Adult
San Diego, 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
Age: 9 years old Gender: Male Breed: Shih Tzu mix Weight: 26 lbs Personality: Yuki is wary of strangers but will warm up to people with a bit of chicken and patience on the human's side. Yuki is a mellow guy who loves to nap next to you and lounge in the sun. Yuki is content to sleep the day away near his person but is also up for playing with stuffed animals and fetching! Yuki does well on leash but is quick to warn you that strangers are nearby. He has some barrier frustration, but is generally very easy going once he has warmed up to you. He loves going for car rides and is a great passenger, although drive thru cashiers may be startled at his sudden alerting. Yuki does well with other dogs. He is polite enough to leave old grumpy dogs alone but will play with young energetic pups. He does not resource guard his person, but does show some food guarding tendencies. It would be safest to feed separately. Needs a home with no children or older children who will treat him with respect and give him space as needed. If you have some chicken and just two days of patience, you will be rewarded with so much love. Yuki is an easy dog, he is crate trained, potty trained, and walks well on leash. He is generally a gentle, mellow guy with great house manners. He has a case of stranger danger, but can be redirected when he is reacting. Yuki loves hanging out with his human, but does well when left alone. He will sleep until you return and greet you wholeheartedly. Yuki takes a little bit to warm up to his person, but once you earn his trust, you will find that no one else will look at you with as much love in their eyes as Yuki.  Education: Good with bathroom and leash training Favorite Activities: Napping, cuddling, chewing tags and eyeballs off stuffed animals, fetch, sun bathing. He's also extremely dog friendly Looking for: A sweet person or family who can give him space, be patient with him and respect/ advocate for his boundaries while he learns to trust humans. Ideally older and respectful kids are ok, and so are dogs. He is currently taking Prozac (~$5-10 for a month's supply, depending on market value and where purchased) to successfully help manage his anxiety around new people.  Adoption Fee: $ 350 ##1592807##
We'll also keep you updated on Ted's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Ted

Ted

Shih Tzu

Male, Senior
San Diego, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Ted is a sweet senior Shih Tzu who recently lost his owner and is looking for a loving new home. He previously lived with five other dogs and got along wonderfully with the little ones, bigger dogs don't bother him much. This cuddly boy loves being close to his people and is happiest when he can follow you around or nap next to you. While he currently in an apartment, Ted definitely prefers a home with a backyard where he can relax, explore, and enjoy some fresh air. He has a big voice for a little dog, and he's not shy about using it to tell you how he feels or remind you it time for attention. Ted has so much love to give and is ready for someone who will give him the calm, caring home he deserves. If you are looking for a loyal, affectionate companion with a gentle heart, Ted may be your perfect match.
We'll also keep you updated on Motorbreath's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Motorbreath

Motorbreath

Shih Tzu Poodle (Standard)

Male, 6 mos
San Diego, 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,
Story
Meet Motorbreath! DOB: May 2025Weight: 15 lbs (full grown)Disposition: Happy-go-lucky, Easy-going, FriendlyHistory: Exposed to parvo at an LA shelter and at risk of euthanasia as a result. Rescued by TBL in October 2025Best Home: Amazing Qualities: If you're interested in meeting this dog, please visit our website to fill out an adoption application: www.thebarkinglot.net/adoptOur dogs are located in San Diego County, CA. We will happily consider out of town applications and can conduct virtual play dates with interested adopters. We have monthly transport to various locations in the Pacific Northwest, individual arrangements would need to be made for other locations across the US and Canada.To initiate the adoption process for this dog, please complete our online application by clicking below. Your adoption coordinator will respod to you via email once they receive your application: www.thebarkinglot.net/adopt
We'll also keep you updated on Burton's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Burton

Burton

Shih Tzu Poodle (Standard)

Male, 2 yrs 1 mo
San Diego, 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 Burton! DOB: October 2023Weight: 16 lbsDisposition: Fun-loving, Playful, Engaging.History: Matted and filthy when he found his way to the shelter, he was then exposed to parvo and as a result slated for euthanasia. Rescued by TBL in October 2025.Best Home: Amazing Qualities: This boy LOVES TOYS!!If you're interested in meeting this dog, please visit our website to fill out an adoption application: www.thebarkinglot.net/adoptOur dogs are located in San Diego County, CA. We will happily consider out of town applications and can conduct virtual play dates with interested adopters. We have monthly transport to various locations in the Pacific Northwest, individual arrangements would need to be made for other locations across the US and Canada.To initiate the adoption process for this dog, please complete our online application by clicking below. Your adoption coordinator will respod to you via email once they receive your application: www.thebarkinglot.net/adopt
We'll also keep you updated on Bucky's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Bucky

Bucky

Shih Tzu

Male, 6 yrs 4 mos
San Diego, 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,
Story
Meet Bucky! DOB: July 2019Weight: 15lbsDisposition: Attentive, Friendly, SweetBucky is such a nice boy. He's engaging, well-mannered and housebroken, just a pleasure to have around. He came to us with a raging skin infection that resulted in his losing all of his hair. Our vet literally said, "This is the worst skin infection I've ever seen." After treatment with antifungal, antibiotic and steriod medications, his skin has healed, his coat is coming in nicely and he's comfortable now! We've determined his skin infection was due to a food allergy, so he's been eating hydrolized protien food and is thriving. Bucky is ready to find his new humans. He likes everyone he meets, loves dogs and is great with kids. He's a little rock star.History: Relinquished to a shelter in LA County and rescued by TBL in July 2025.Best Home: Amazing Qualities: Such a patient boy.If you're interested in meeting this dog, please visit our website to fill out an adoption application: www.thebarkinglot.net/adoptOur dogs are located in San Diego County, CA. We will happily consider out of town applications and can conduct virtual play dates with interested adopters. We have monthly transport to various locations in the Pacific Northwest, individual arrangements would need to be made for other locations across the US and Canada.To initiate the adoption process for this dog, please complete our online application by clicking below. Your adoption coordinator will respod to you via email once they receive your application: www.thebarkinglot.net/adopt
We'll also keep you updated on Amazing Nina's adoption status with email updates.
Bonded Pair
Photo of Amazing Nina

Amazing Nina

Shih Tzu Maltipoo

Female, 1 yr 10 mos
El Cajon, 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
Come to meet her at our monthly events at Petco: 1780 Garnet Ave - Pacific Beach, ca 92109 by Vons & CVS - Next Adoption Event Saturday 11/09 - from 3 to 5 pm - there will be a bake fundraising event from 11 to 2 pm. Our sweet girl is so playful. She enjoys hours playing with her little bonded brother Nino. In addition, she gets along with other dogs - and cats and loves children and people. She is a love bug who will bring you lots of love. They love playing with the cat as well as you can see in on her pics here the cat trying to get to play. We can text you videos if you request it. Adoption fee includes being spayed and she has all her 3 core puppy vaccines, dewormed and a complementary health check up at our participating vet clinics. Please text us at 619-576-0747 or email email us at Angels4dogscats@gmail.com Please MUST complete an application if you are ready to adopt at AngelsForDogsAndCatsRescue.org or at AAOFUS.ORG Please text us to let us know you have applied - please check out the bio of bonded brother Nino Thank you for saving lives by adopting from us!!! LIVE!!! LOVE!!! ADOPT OUR RESCUED BONDED PAIR!!!

Or, how about these Shih Tzus in cities near San Diego, California

These Shih Tzus are available for adoption close to San Diego, California.
We'll also keep you updated on Yuki's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Yuki

Yuki

Shih Tzu

Male, Adult
San Diego, 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
Age: 9 years old Gender: Male Breed: Shih Tzu mix Weight: 26 lbs Personality: Yuki is wary of strangers but will warm up to people with a bit of chicken and patience on the human's side. Yuki is a mellow guy who loves to nap next to you and lounge in the sun. Yuki is content to sleep the day away near his person but is also up for playing with stuffed animals and fetching! Yuki does well on leash but is quick to warn you that strangers are nearby. He has some barrier frustration, but is generally very easy going once he has warmed up to you. He loves going for car rides and is a great passenger, although drive thru cashiers may be startled at his sudden alerting. Yuki does well with other dogs. He is polite enough to leave old grumpy dogs alone but will play with young energetic pups. He does not resource guard his person, but does show some food guarding tendencies. It would be safest to feed separately. Needs a home with no children or older children who will treat him with respect and give him space as needed. If you have some chicken and just two days of patience, you will be rewarded with so much love. Yuki is an easy dog, he is crate trained, potty trained, and walks well on leash. He is generally a gentle, mellow guy with great house manners. He has a case of stranger danger, but can be redirected when he is reacting. Yuki loves hanging out with his human, but does well when left alone. He will sleep until you return and greet you wholeheartedly. Yuki takes a little bit to warm up to his person, but once you earn his trust, you will find that no one else will look at you with as much love in their eyes as Yuki.  Education: Good with bathroom and leash training Favorite Activities: Napping, cuddling, chewing tags and eyeballs off stuffed animals, fetch, sun bathing. He's also extremely dog friendly Looking for: A sweet person or family who can give him space, be patient with him and respect/ advocate for his boundaries while he learns to trust humans. Ideally older and respectful kids are ok, and so are dogs. He is currently taking Prozac (~$5-10 for a month's supply, depending on market value and where purchased) to successfully help manage his anxiety around new people.  Adoption Fee: $ 350 ##1592807##
We'll also keep you updated on Ted's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Ted

Ted

Shih Tzu

Male, Senior
San Diego, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Ted is a sweet senior Shih Tzu who recently lost his owner and is looking for a loving new home. He previously lived with five other dogs and got along wonderfully with the little ones, bigger dogs don't bother him much. This cuddly boy loves being close to his people and is happiest when he can follow you around or nap next to you. While he currently in an apartment, Ted definitely prefers a home with a backyard where he can relax, explore, and enjoy some fresh air. He has a big voice for a little dog, and he's not shy about using it to tell you how he feels or remind you it time for attention. Ted has so much love to give and is ready for someone who will give him the calm, caring home he deserves. If you are looking for a loyal, affectionate companion with a gentle heart, Ted may be your perfect match.
We'll also keep you updated on Motorbreath's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Motorbreath

Motorbreath

Shih Tzu Poodle (Standard)

Male, 6 mos
San Diego, 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,
Story
Meet Motorbreath! DOB: May 2025Weight: 15 lbs (full grown)Disposition: Happy-go-lucky, Easy-going, FriendlyHistory: Exposed to parvo at an LA shelter and at risk of euthanasia as a result. Rescued by TBL in October 2025Best Home: Amazing Qualities: If you're interested in meeting this dog, please visit our website to fill out an adoption application: www.thebarkinglot.net/adoptOur dogs are located in San Diego County, CA. We will happily consider out of town applications and can conduct virtual play dates with interested adopters. We have monthly transport to various locations in the Pacific Northwest, individual arrangements would need to be made for other locations across the US and Canada.To initiate the adoption process for this dog, please complete our online application by clicking below. Your adoption coordinator will respod to you via email once they receive your application: www.thebarkinglot.net/adopt
We'll also keep you updated on Burton's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Burton

Burton

Shih Tzu Poodle (Standard)

Male, 2 yrs 1 mo
San Diego, 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 Burton! DOB: October 2023Weight: 16 lbsDisposition: Fun-loving, Playful, Engaging.History: Matted and filthy when he found his way to the shelter, he was then exposed to parvo and as a result slated for euthanasia. Rescued by TBL in October 2025.Best Home: Amazing Qualities: This boy LOVES TOYS!!If you're interested in meeting this dog, please visit our website to fill out an adoption application: www.thebarkinglot.net/adoptOur dogs are located in San Diego County, CA. We will happily consider out of town applications and can conduct virtual play dates with interested adopters. We have monthly transport to various locations in the Pacific Northwest, individual arrangements would need to be made for other locations across the US and Canada.To initiate the adoption process for this dog, please complete our online application by clicking below. Your adoption coordinator will respod to you via email once they receive your application: www.thebarkinglot.net/adopt
We'll also keep you updated on Bucky's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Bucky

Bucky

Shih Tzu

Male, 6 yrs 4 mos
San Diego, 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,
Story
Meet Bucky! DOB: July 2019Weight: 15lbsDisposition: Attentive, Friendly, SweetBucky is such a nice boy. He's engaging, well-mannered and housebroken, just a pleasure to have around. He came to us with a raging skin infection that resulted in his losing all of his hair. Our vet literally said, "This is the worst skin infection I've ever seen." After treatment with antifungal, antibiotic and steriod medications, his skin has healed, his coat is coming in nicely and he's comfortable now! We've determined his skin infection was due to a food allergy, so he's been eating hydrolized protien food and is thriving. Bucky is ready to find his new humans. He likes everyone he meets, loves dogs and is great with kids. He's a little rock star.History: Relinquished to a shelter in LA County and rescued by TBL in July 2025.Best Home: Amazing Qualities: Such a patient boy.If you're interested in meeting this dog, please visit our website to fill out an adoption application: www.thebarkinglot.net/adoptOur dogs are located in San Diego County, CA. We will happily consider out of town applications and can conduct virtual play dates with interested adopters. We have monthly transport to various locations in the Pacific Northwest, individual arrangements would need to be made for other locations across the US and Canada.To initiate the adoption process for this dog, please complete our online application by clicking below. Your adoption coordinator will respod to you via email once they receive your application: www.thebarkinglot.net/adopt
We'll also keep you updated on Amazing Nina's adoption status with email updates.
Bonded Pair
Photo of Amazing Nina

Amazing Nina

Shih Tzu Maltipoo

Female, 1 yr 10 mos
El Cajon, 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
Come to meet her at our monthly events at Petco: 1780 Garnet Ave - Pacific Beach, ca 92109 by Vons & CVS - Next Adoption Event Saturday 11/09 - from 3 to 5 pm - there will be a bake fundraising event from 11 to 2 pm. Our sweet girl is so playful. She enjoys hours playing with her little bonded brother Nino. In addition, she gets along with other dogs - and cats and loves children and people. She is a love bug who will bring you lots of love. They love playing with the cat as well as you can see in on her pics here the cat trying to get to play. We can text you videos if you request it. Adoption fee includes being spayed and she has all her 3 core puppy vaccines, dewormed and a complementary health check up at our participating vet clinics. Please text us at 619-576-0747 or email email us at Angels4dogscats@gmail.com Please MUST complete an application if you are ready to adopt at AngelsForDogsAndCatsRescue.org or at AAOFUS.ORG Please text us to let us know you have applied - please check out the bio of bonded brother Nino Thank you for saving lives by adopting from us!!! LIVE!!! LOVE!!! ADOPT OUR RESCUED BONDED PAIR!!!

These pups are in San Diego, California too!

Below are our newest added Shih Tzus available for adoption in San Diego, California. To see more adoptable Shih Tzus in San Diego, California, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria!
We'll also keep you updated on Marcel's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Marcel

Marcel

Papillon Chihuahua

Male, 4 yrs 9 mos
San Diego, CA
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Good with dogs, Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Meet Marcel! This sweet boy is around 4.5 years old. He was rescued from Mexico, was adopted out, and sadly returned because the owner was unable to care for him properly. Marcel has acclimated to a home with many other dogs. He is house-trained, leash-trained, and crate-trained. Marcel knows how to be independent and entertain himself with his toys. Marcel is very particular about how he receives affection; he prefers to ask his humans for affection and receive non-stop attention. Marcel would prefer an adult-only home. He also prefers not to have his toys taken away while he is playing with them. Marcel will be cuddly and ask for love when he is ready for it. He loves going on outings and meeting new people. He is a very social and happy boy. He has a very particular personality and expects respect in his personal space. Marcel is looking for a foster or forever home!

Search for a Shih Tzu puppy or dog

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

Shih Tzu puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Related breeds in San Diego, California

Shih Tzu shelters & rescues in San Diego, California

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

1.9 miles

The Animal Pad - CA Chapter

San Diego, CA 92103

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

7.4 miles

The Barking Lot

San Diego, CA 92117

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

9.5 miles

Animal Advocates of the US - San Diego Chapter

El Cajon, CA 92122

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits

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Rescue

16.2 miles

Second Leash on Life

San Diego, CA 92130

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

17.2 miles

Lionel's Legacy

11937 Woodside Ave., Lakeside, CA 92040

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

27.2 miles

Frosted Faces Foundation

1448 Pine St, Ramona, CA 92065

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

30.9 miles

ARRF (Animal Rescue Resource Foundation)

(we're a FOSTER program; NO SHELTER!), Carlsbad, CA 92011

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

44.8 miles

Fallbrook Animal Sanctuary

230-232 W. Aviation Rd., Fallbrook, CA 92028

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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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!

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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

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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.

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