Adopt

Shih Tzu puppies and dogs in Santa Clara, California

Looking for a Shih Tzu puppy or dog in Santa Clara, 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 Santa Clara, California

We don't see any Shih Tzus available for adoption right now, but new adoptable pets are added every day. Try a different search below!

Or, how about these Shih Tzus in cities near Santa Clara, California

These Shih Tzus are available for adoption close to Santa Clara, California.
We'll also keep you updated on Brussel Sprout's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Brussel Sprout

Brussel Sprout

Shih Tzu

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.Adoption fee: $600 Thank you so much AnneMarie D. for sponsoring Brussel Sprout.Meet Brussel Sprout, a 17 lb, 7 year old tyrant disguised as a dog. Do you want to adopt the worst dog ever? The one who has opinions, a schedule, and absolutely no problem informing you when you are doing things incorrectly? Perfect. Please read on.   Brussel Sprout believes mornings should begin promptly at 8:00 a.m. with a short walk, followed immediately by…going back to bed for two more hours. Do not confuse this with laziness. This is intentional rest. After his second wake-up, he requires a quick potty break and then expects breakfast to be served as fast as humanly possible. Any delay will be met with intense staring, barking, circling, sitting upright, and general “how dare you” energy. He does not want treats. He wants a meal. He will make that very clear.   During the day, Brussel Sprout supervises the living room while you are at work. He prefers to potty outside like a gentleman but will tolerate a pee pad if absolutely necessary, though he would like you to know this is beneath him. Once outside, he is not picky about where he goes, so guidance is appreciated. He enjoys an early dinner and will announce when it is time. He does not believe in silent hunger.   At night, Brussel Sprout sleeps in his own very comfy bed next to yours. There is a ramp to the human bed, but he has declined that option and prefers independence, dignity, and personal space. When he wakes up, he may briefly forget where he is, so good lighting is required while he reassesses the situation and confirms that he is, in fact, safe and still in charge. He also puts himself to bed when he is tired. No one tells Brussel Sprout when bedtime is.   Personality-wise, he arrived stressed and deeply disappointed that the household did not immediately understand his routine. He does not like closed doors. He especially does not like when his person is behind a closed door without him. He will vocalize his dissatisfaction with barking, squealing, and general commentary. Showering alone was not an option at first. Progress has been made. He now allows the shower door to be closed, provided the bathroom door remains open and he can perform periodic visual inspections of his person.   He enjoys being petted but does not climb on furniture. He prefers to walk around, sit on something soft, or dramatically sploot on the floor. He has mild interest in toys but stronger feelings about household objects that cannot be trusted, such as a gallon water jug on a low shelf. He softly barks at it every day for reasons unknown. Individual water bottles are fine. The jug is suspicious.   Brussel Sprout walks nicely on leash, does not pull, and could not care less about animals around him. He is indifferent to other pets unless food is involved. Mealtime is a solo activity and should be conducted privately. He eats enthusiastically and will not steal from others, but he would appreciate privacy and respect during dining.   He does bark. But always for a reason. Bathroom doors. Closed doors. New people in the house. Being unable to follow you. Existential concerns. He does not bark randomly. He is communicating. When his person leaves for work, he is given a cookie, eats it politely on his bed, and then waits quietly until the pet sitter arrives hours later. He is dramatic, not destructive.   Brussel Sprout needs a home with routine, patience, and a willingness to learn his very specific language of barks, squeals, and meaningful looks. He was someone’s baby once and is very clear that he would like to be that again. Brussel may have limited hearing, limited sight and for sure has limited teeth. Bonus: He already got a dental. Don't have to worry about that expense. The rescue covered that. Minus side? His tongue now hangs out of his mouth. Maybe that's not a minus side. Maybe the old man has a cute factor now. To each his own. In our book, that sounds like perfect little man.  So, who wants to adopt the grumpiest, bossiest, most demanding little old man who will run your household with a tiny iron paw and absolutely steal your heart in the process? Brussel Sprout is ready to inform you exactly how things should be done.January 8, 2026, 12:42 am
We'll also keep you updated on Nirai D7047's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Nirai D7047

Nirai D7047

Shih Tzu

Female, Adult
Fremont, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Nirai (means calm) and her 4 friends were all dumped in the streets of Fremont. They were all neglected dirty and very matted. She is more timid and nervous than the others. Needs more time to decompress and feel safe at her foster home. The shelter had her shaved down since she was severely matted. She is now relaxing at her foster home. More photos and info to come as she learns and feels safe. Update 1/20/26 from her foster home: She was scared for the first two days but now she is a completely different dog. She sleeps very well through the night in her crate is potty trained and already knows how to use the doggie door to go to the backyard for her business. She is good with other dogs though she doesn’t play with them much yet. She is also great with my 5-year-old son. She loves human company more than dogs for now. She plays with my son and my husband sleeps on our laps and loves belly rubs. She also seems fine when we leave her at home for a few hours. I’m feeding her home-cooked food and she loves carrots and treats.January 21, 2026, 12:53 am
We'll also keep you updated on Mira D6011's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Mira D6011

Mira D6011

Shih Tzu

Female, Adult
Fremont, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Mira was one of the 5 neglected and matted dogs that were dumped in Fremont. After vet care and shave down (she had long matted coat) she is now doing great at her foster home. She was nervous at the shelter but at her foster home she warmed up quickly and is now very lovable and playful. Mira loves to jump on the bed and cuddling. Loves attention and being petted. Eating well. She loves playing with toys walks cuddling zooming around and great with foster home's dog. Mira is a sweetie. More info. to come. Update from foster home: - She's getting more comfortable with us but very weary with strangers. - Eating - we have tried so many things boiled chicken beef pumpkin rice homemade stew cheese....and realized yesterday she really likes canned food. so yesterday she had 3-4 small meals canned food mixed with some kibble and our homemade food- Not reactive around dogs in fact I think being around dogs may help her we had our neighbor come down with his small dog and they were interactive. - She loves loves loves tummy rubs but won't cuddle on the couch or sleep in my bed. She chooses to sleep on a dog bed on the floor and lay by herself.- Doesn't like to be picked up- We only took her one 1 car ride when we picked her up and she didn't like it- She is very picky with her treats so we have had a hard time finding a 'high value' treat to get her to do anything yet. She does seem to respond well to verbal praise.- She's very sweet just nervous and needs a lot of time to build trust!January 31, 2026, 12:59 am
We'll also keep you updated on Daniel's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Daniel

Daniel

Shih Tzu

Male, 3 yrs
Pacifica, CA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Meet Daniel, a 3-year-old black-and-white Shih Tzu mix with a whole lot of personality packed into a little body! This happy, energetic cutie adores people, loves kids, and thrives on being part of the action. Daniel is currently living his best life with a foster family (complete with children!) and soaking up every bit of fun and affection. If you’re looking for a sweet, playful, and loving companion to brighten your days, Daniel might just be your perfect match. He’s ready and waiting, tail wagging and heart wide open, to meet his future family.
We'll also keep you updated on Sir Tashi's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Sir Tashi

Sir Tashi

Shih Tzu Lhasa Apso

Male, Adult
Pittsburg, 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 Sir Tashi - the sweetest little gentleman you'll ever know! ✨Sir Tashi is a 15-lb Shih Tzu, approximately 3 years old, with a heart as soft as his cuddles. He's playful, affectionate, and truly an all-around good boy with so much love to give.✔️ Doing great with potty training following other dogs through dog door. ✔️ Crate trained (sleeps in crate at night)✔️ Walks beautifully on leash✔️ Loves toys, playtime, and his foster siblings✔️ World-class cuddle bugSir Tashi also has a silly, mischievous side &#194&#151 he's a sock, shoe, and 'anything small enough to grab' thief 😄. He doesn't chew things up, but he will happily steal items to parade around or play with them. It's more funny than destructive, but it does mean keeping small items picked up.Sir Tashi is still learning and will need continued training. Like many Shih Tzus, he can be a bit stubborn, especially when it comes to house manners. He is making progress, but this breed does best with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Short, fun training sessions work best for basic commands, and adopters should expect a learning curve &#194&#151 particularly with housebreaking.Sir Tashi came into rescue alongside his Shih Tzu brother, Mister Tenzi (check k9ppr.org for his profile). While they are no longer fostered together and Sir Tashi will absolutely thrive independently, adopters interested in both brothers will receive a package adoption discount.💔 Important note: These boys were previously kept outdoors and neglected. Because of that, they will need a patient, understanding home committed to continuing basic manners and reinforcing potty habits as they settle into a new environment.Sir Tashi (or the two of them together!) would make a wonderful addition to a loving, committed family.Could that family be yours?⸻🐾 Adoption Requirements &#194&#149 Another dog required &#194&#149 Gentle children 10+ &#194&#149 Temperature controlled home- (Shih Tzus are prone to overheating) &#194&#149 Short walks only &#194&#149 Professional grooming every 6 weeks (not a low-maintenance breed)A detailed adoption application is required.Only applications that clearly meet the criteria and provide meaningful information will be considered. At K9 Paw Print Rescue, we believe every dog is a precious soul deserving of a home that truly fits them.👉 Apply at: www.k9ppr.orgJanuary 12, 2026, 12:43 am
We'll also keep you updated on Mr Tenzi's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Mr Tenzi

Mr Tenzi

Shih Tzu Lhasa Apso

Male, Adult
Pittsburg, 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 Tenzi ✨Tenzi is simply gorgeous. While a fella shouldn't be judged on looks alone, it must be said&#194&#151he's quite the looker. With his soft, fluffy coat, beautiful markings, big dark eyes, and his tiny Van Dyke-style beard, he's undeniably dashing.Tenzi is a Shih Tzu, estimated to be 2-3 years old and about 14 lbs. He is gentle, playful, and affectionate, with a big love for toys&#194&#151especially balls. Blankets are his favorite treasures and will always be gathered into his bed. He enjoys both playtime and quiet cuddles on the couch.Sadly, Tenzi spent most of his life neglected and kept outdoors, which is especially inappropriate for this breed. Because of his past, he will need a patient, understanding home willing to help him continue learning basic manners and fully adjust to life as an indoor, pampered companion such a potty training which is going to take some time. ⸻🐾 Ideal Home & Requirements &#194&#149 Another dog required - he thrives with canine companionship &#194&#149 Gentle children ages 10+ &#194&#149 Indoor-only home with climate control (breed is prone to overheating) &#194&#149 Short walks only; not a high-endurance dog &#194&#149 Commitment to continued potty training & basic manners &#194&#149 Professional grooming every 6 weeks (regular brushing or kept clipped short)⸻🐶 Sibling NoteTenzi does have a Shih Tzu brother. While they are not being fostered together and it is not required that they be adopted as a pair, we would consider a slight adoption fee discount for an approved adopter interested in giving this duo a home together.⸻Tenzi's grooming was previously neglected, and his coat and ears required significant care when he arrived. This breed is not low maintenance, and adopters must be prepared to meet his ongoing grooming needs.With patience, structure, and love, Tenzi will make a devoted and affectionate companion who truly blossoms in the right home. 💛⸻📩 Adoption InfoA detailed adoption application is required. Only applications that clearly meet the criteria listed will be considered. Applications that do not reflect an understanding of Tenzi's needs or fail to share meaningful information about the applicant will not be considered.We believe every dog is a precious soul deserving of a home that truly fits them.👉 Apply at: www.k9ppr.orgJanuary 12, 2026, 12:43 am

These pups are in Santa Clara, California too!

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

Lily

Papillon Terrier (Unknown Type, Medium)

Female, Senior
Santa Clara, CA
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
January 29, 2026, 7:44 pm
We'll also keep you updated on Little John's adoption status with email updates.
No photo available for Little John

Little John

Lhasa Apso Toy Poodle

Male
Santa Clara, CA
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
September 27, 2025, 4:48 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 Santa Clara, California.

Shih Tzu puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Related breeds in Santa Clara, California

Shih Tzu shelters & rescues in Santa Clara, California

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

11.8 miles

Doggie Protective Services (DPS Rescue)

Palo Alto, CA 94306

Pet Types: cats, dogs, farm animals

More an arrow icon

Rescue

15.2 miles

Furry Friends Rescue

P.O. Box 7270, Fremont, CA 94537

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

35.1 miles

Companion Animal Community Center

Pacifica, CA 94044

Pet Types: cats, dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

46.5 miles

K9 Paw Print Rescue

P.O. Box 9354, Pittsburg, CA 94565

Pet Types: dogs

More an arrow icon

Rescue

47.6 miles

Milo Foundation

220 S Garrard Blvd, Pt. Richmond, CA 94801

Pet Types: cats, 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