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Shih Tzu puppies and dogs in Worcester, Massachusetts

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

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Adopt a Shih Tzu near you in Worcester, Massachusetts

These Shih Tzus are available in Worcester, Massachusetts.
We'll also keep you updated on Lanie's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Lanie

Lanie

Shih Tzu Terrier (Unknown Type, Small)

Female, 10 yrs 6 mos
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids, Good with dogs, Not good with cats, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Lanie (pronounced “Lonie”) is a 10‑year‑old Shih Tzu who carries herself with calm confidence and a touch of princess‑like charm. At 16 pounds, she’s taller than the typical Shih Tzu and moves through the world with quiet assurance. Lanie is house‑trained, rarely vocal, walks politely on a leash, and is fully vaccinated. She gets along with other dogs and enjoys affection on her own terms. When she wants to snuggle, she’s a gentle and loving companion; when she prefers space, she communicates that clearly and respectfully. Once she finds a comfortable pillow or chair, she settles in happily. She was recently surrendered to Broken Tail Rescue after her owner moved away. Although her previous medical records were not provided, we spoke with her vetrinarian and confirmed that she received routine preventive care throughout her life. Lanie has one diagnosed medical condition: Chronic Dry Eye Syndrome. She requires a compounded medication to manage it, which must be used within its 60‑day expiration period. The refill cost is $80. Lanie will do best with an adopter who appreciates a dog with boundaries, a predictable routine, and a gentle approach. Following the “three days, three weeks, three months” adjustment guideline will help her settle comfortably into her new home. If you’re looking for a steady, mature companion and are prepared to support her ongoing eye‑care needs, we encourage you to submit an application. If you are interested in finding out more about Lanie, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog Lanie is being fostered in Central Massachusetts. The adoption fee is $400 Like Broken Tail Rescue on Facebook!. Follow Broken Tail Rescue on Instagram! Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most of the dogs, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.
We'll also keep you updated on Maye's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Maye

Maye

Shih Tzu

Male, 10 yrs 1 mo
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
Drake and Maye are a deeply bonded pair who came to the shelter after the heartbreaking loss of their owner. After so much change, these boys are simply looking for a soft, steady place to land and a family to call their own again.Drake is the shyer of the two at first and may need a little time to feel comfortable. Once he knows you, he melts into a happy puddle of snuggles, happily flinging himself into laps and soaking up attention. He also enjoys long walks and time spent close to his people. Maye is the steady, confident presence in their partnership. He helps Drake feel brave and is often the first to greet new friends, offering quiet reassurance along the way.Drake is currently on a weight-loss journey and will need to be fed separately from Maye to help him stay on track. Their adopters should be prepared to continue supporting healthy routines for both boys.If there are children in the home, teens and older would be the best fit. Drake and Maye are ready to bring comfort, companionship, and quiet loyalty to a home that will cherish them together.If you are interested in adopting these wonderful senior boys, please visit the shelter on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays between 12–4pm. Their combined adoption fee is $200 for both. If you are unable to visit during those hours, please email dogs@worcesterarl.org to inquire about scheduling an appointment.
We'll also keep you updated on Jake's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Jake

Jake

Shih Tzu Maltese

Male, 1 yr
Worcester, MA
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 Jake: pocket-sized, purse-optional, and ready to steal your heart 👜🐾 Jake is about a year old, a Shih-Tzu/Maltese mix, and weighs a mighty 5 pounds—which means he’s basically a living plush toy. If you’ve ever daydreamed about carrying a dog in your purse or dressing one up for outings, congrats: Jake is that fantasy, fully realized. Just know he’ll need to be bundled up in cold weather, because this tiny gentleman isn’t built for arctic temps. Jake is working on his potty skills and is making good progress going outside. Leash manners should improve as he gets more comfortable with his surroundings—confidence is key for this little guy. Once you earn his trust, though? Boom. You’ve got a shadow. A very small, very devoted shadow. He’s doing great with the foster home’s dog and cats and showed excellent social awareness when he first arrived, giving everyone space while they all adjusted. Now that he’s settling in, he’s even starting to show interest in playing with the resident dog, Bonnie—a 40-pound rat terrier mix. They happily relax in the same room together. Jake is also fine with kids (ages 10, 13, and 16 in the foster home). He was a bit skittish at first, but once trust is established, he’s good… for now 😉. One quirky thing to note: Jake has decided his foster mom is his person. Since she’s home with him all day, he sometimes forgets other humans live there and may growl or bark protectively if someone approaches while he’s snuggled with her. He’s taking his “tiny bodyguard” job seriously. If you are interested in finding out more about Jake, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog Jake is being fostered in Marlborough, MA. The adoption fee is $500. Like Broken Tail Rescue on Facebook!. Follow Broken Tail Rescue on Instagram! Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most of the dogs, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.

Or, how about these Shih Tzus in cities near Worcester, Massachusetts

These Shih Tzus are available for adoption close to Worcester, Massachusetts.
We'll also keep you updated on Lanie's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Lanie

Lanie

Shih Tzu Terrier (Unknown Type, Small)

Female, 10 yrs 6 mos
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids, Good with dogs, Not good with cats, Needs experienced adopter, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Lanie (pronounced “Lonie”) is a 10‑year‑old Shih Tzu who carries herself with calm confidence and a touch of princess‑like charm. At 16 pounds, she’s taller than the typical Shih Tzu and moves through the world with quiet assurance. Lanie is house‑trained, rarely vocal, walks politely on a leash, and is fully vaccinated. She gets along with other dogs and enjoys affection on her own terms. When she wants to snuggle, she’s a gentle and loving companion; when she prefers space, she communicates that clearly and respectfully. Once she finds a comfortable pillow or chair, she settles in happily. She was recently surrendered to Broken Tail Rescue after her owner moved away. Although her previous medical records were not provided, we spoke with her vetrinarian and confirmed that she received routine preventive care throughout her life. Lanie has one diagnosed medical condition: Chronic Dry Eye Syndrome. She requires a compounded medication to manage it, which must be used within its 60‑day expiration period. The refill cost is $80. Lanie will do best with an adopter who appreciates a dog with boundaries, a predictable routine, and a gentle approach. Following the “three days, three weeks, three months” adjustment guideline will help her settle comfortably into her new home. If you’re looking for a steady, mature companion and are prepared to support her ongoing eye‑care needs, we encourage you to submit an application. If you are interested in finding out more about Lanie, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog Lanie is being fostered in Central Massachusetts. The adoption fee is $400 Like Broken Tail Rescue on Facebook!. Follow Broken Tail Rescue on Instagram! Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most of the dogs, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.
We'll also keep you updated on Maye's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Maye

Maye

Shih Tzu

Male, 10 yrs 1 mo
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
Drake and Maye are a deeply bonded pair who came to the shelter after the heartbreaking loss of their owner. After so much change, these boys are simply looking for a soft, steady place to land and a family to call their own again.Drake is the shyer of the two at first and may need a little time to feel comfortable. Once he knows you, he melts into a happy puddle of snuggles, happily flinging himself into laps and soaking up attention. He also enjoys long walks and time spent close to his people. Maye is the steady, confident presence in their partnership. He helps Drake feel brave and is often the first to greet new friends, offering quiet reassurance along the way.Drake is currently on a weight-loss journey and will need to be fed separately from Maye to help him stay on track. Their adopters should be prepared to continue supporting healthy routines for both boys.If there are children in the home, teens and older would be the best fit. Drake and Maye are ready to bring comfort, companionship, and quiet loyalty to a home that will cherish them together.If you are interested in adopting these wonderful senior boys, please visit the shelter on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays between 12–4pm. Their combined adoption fee is $200 for both. If you are unable to visit during those hours, please email dogs@worcesterarl.org to inquire about scheduling an appointment.
We'll also keep you updated on Jake's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Jake

Jake

Shih Tzu Maltese

Male, 1 yr
Worcester, MA
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 Jake: pocket-sized, purse-optional, and ready to steal your heart 👜🐾 Jake is about a year old, a Shih-Tzu/Maltese mix, and weighs a mighty 5 pounds—which means he’s basically a living plush toy. If you’ve ever daydreamed about carrying a dog in your purse or dressing one up for outings, congrats: Jake is that fantasy, fully realized. Just know he’ll need to be bundled up in cold weather, because this tiny gentleman isn’t built for arctic temps. Jake is working on his potty skills and is making good progress going outside. Leash manners should improve as he gets more comfortable with his surroundings—confidence is key for this little guy. Once you earn his trust, though? Boom. You’ve got a shadow. A very small, very devoted shadow. He’s doing great with the foster home’s dog and cats and showed excellent social awareness when he first arrived, giving everyone space while they all adjusted. Now that he’s settling in, he’s even starting to show interest in playing with the resident dog, Bonnie—a 40-pound rat terrier mix. They happily relax in the same room together. Jake is also fine with kids (ages 10, 13, and 16 in the foster home). He was a bit skittish at first, but once trust is established, he’s good… for now 😉. One quirky thing to note: Jake has decided his foster mom is his person. Since she’s home with him all day, he sometimes forgets other humans live there and may growl or bark protectively if someone approaches while he’s snuggled with her. He’s taking his “tiny bodyguard” job seriously. If you are interested in finding out more about Jake, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog Jake is being fostered in Marlborough, MA. The adoption fee is $500. Like Broken Tail Rescue on Facebook!. Follow Broken Tail Rescue on Instagram! Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most of the dogs, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.
We'll also keep you updated on Hercules- please read my bio's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of Hercules- please read my bio

Hercules- please read my bio

Shih Tzu Poodle (Toy or Tea Cup)

Male, 3 yrs 4 mos
E. Brookfield, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
-
Story
Meet Hercules Hercules is a sensitive, loyal dog who takes his time getting comfortable with new people. He isn’t a “love at first sight” kind of guy—he needs multiple meet-and-greets before feeling safe enough to go home—but once he trusts you, his bond is deep and devoted.With his person, Hercules truly shines. He loves going on walks (where there isn`t a lot of traffic walking past), playing with his toys, and winding down with some well-earned snuggles at the end of the day. He forms a strong attachment to one person and is happiest in a calm, predictable environment.Hercules would do best in a single-person household and cannot go to an apartment. He needs a home with more space and a stable environment. A home with no children living in or visiting is required. Because he bonds closely and can be protective, he needs an experienced, committed adopter who understands his needs. Continued professional dog behavior training would be a big benefit for him and will help set everyone up for success.If you’re patient, consistent, and looking for a deeply loyal companion, Hercules may be the perfect match for you
We'll also keep you updated on DeChen's adoption status with email updates.
Photo of DeChen

DeChen

Shih Tzu

Male, Puppy
Greenville, RI
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
DOB 4-30-2025 DeChen is looking for his new home and Mom! He's a beautiful Shih Tzu with a good personality, loves to play and gets along with others. DeChen is complete on all medical, up to date on shots, neutered, heartworm negative and has received a ProHeart6 preventative injection. This boy will come with all his registration and medical papers. His adoption fee is 900.00, his transport fee is 165.00. Our transport is HEARTS LLC, they are the best and deliver to East Coast every other week. The first step in the adoption process is to fill out an online adoption application. You can find a copy of that application here. We sometimes receive a lot of interest on an animal and can't always reply to each email in a timely manner. An application does not obligate you to adopt from us, but it does show that you are serious about the adoption process. Please remember we are all volunteers. After you submit your application please allow a few days for a volunteer to review your application. During this time your vet reference will be checked and a volunteer with determine if it is the best match for you and the animal. Applications are not approved on a first come, first serve basis. We match up the best home for the animal, so even if the pet has other applications, this does not mean he/she will be adopted to that home. Once your application has been approved a volunteer with contact you to set up a phone interview. This is the perfect time for you to ask any questions you have about the adoption process and the animal you are interested in.
We'll also keep you updated on Sparky's adoption status with email updates.
Special Needs
Photo of Sparky

Sparky

Shih Tzu

Male, Senior
Lowell, MA
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Needs special attention, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
We got Sparky at a pet store when he was a puppy, and he is currently 11 years old. He is a good dog, a bit grumpy like all Shih Tzus. Right now, he is very bored at home since I work long hours, and that’s why I want to find him a new home with someone who can dedicate more time to him. He is a bit picky with his food; over the years, he no longer likes kibble, and I have to make him homemade meals.Sparky also loves being with people or his owners, but he likes his personal space, so I don't recommend hugging and kissing him too much since he doesn't really like it. I call him my grumpy old man; he has never bitten anyone because we all know when to give him love and when to give him space, but he is an adorable dog.

These pups are in Worcester, Massachusetts too!

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

Fennekin

Papillon

Male, 2 yrs
Worcester, MA
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Not good with kids, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Meet Fennekin: tiny body, busy brain, and a whole lot of personality 🦊🐾 Fennekin is a 2 year old, 11lb Papillon Mix who is super cute and playful and knows exactly what he likes—and what he does not. He LOVES dogs his own size and is all about playtime, zoomies, and small-dog shenanigans. Bigger dogs, however? Not his vibe. He’d be happiest in a home with small dogs only, where he can feel confident and relaxed without feeling outmatched. He’s a fun-loving pup with a slightly anxious baseline, which sometimes shows up as a shrill bark when he’s unsure—but the good news is, he settles down fairly quickly and doesn’t stay worked up. Because he’s sensitive and still learning to navigate the world, he’d do best in a home without young children and with people who understand that little dogs can have big feelings. On the home-life front, Fennekin is doing well! He eats great, is excellent in his crate, and is improving with his outdoor potty habits. Indoors, he currently wears a belly band while he continues to work through marking behaviors—progress is being made with consistency and routine. Once he feels comfortable, Fennekin’s true personality shines: cuddly, playful, silly, and always ready for action. He loves toys, loves to zoom, and really wants a small dog friend to play with. New people make him a bit nervous at first, but give him a little time and patience, and he warms up nicely. If you are interested in finding out more about Fennekin, please fill out an adoption application by copying and pasting the following link into your browser: https://www.shelterluv.com/matchme/adopt/BRO/Dog Fennekin is being fostered in Watertown, MA. The adoption fee is $500. Like Broken Tail Rescue on Facebook!. Follow Broken Tail Rescue on Instagram! Visual breed identification in dogs is unreliable, so for most of the dogs, we are only guessing at the predominant breed or breed mix. We get to know each dog as an individual and will do our best to describe each of our dogs based on personality, not by breed label. We expect that all adopted dogs will enroll in a formal dog training class with their new owners. Obedience and training classes are an excellent way to learn more about your newly adopted dog, gain handling and training experience, and improve your relationship with your pet.

Search for a Shih Tzu puppy or dog

Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Shih Tzu puppies and adults Shih Tzu in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Shih Tzu puppies and dogs in nearby cities

Related breeds in Worcester, Massachusetts

Shih Tzu shelters & rescues in Worcester, Massachusetts

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

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

2.8 miles

Broken Tail Rescue, Inc.

Broken Tail Rescue, P.O. Box 60296, Worcester, MA 01606

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Shelter

2.8 miles

Worcester Animal Rescue League

139 Holden St., Worcester, MA 01606

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

12.8 miles

Second Chance Animal Services

111 Young Rd, E. Brookfield, MA 01515

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits, small animals

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Rescue

30.5 miles

Beebe Humane Society RI Transport

Email Only, Greenville, RI 02828

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

39.4 miles

Small Dog Rescue of New England Inc.

Cranston, RI 02920

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

42.1 miles

One More Last Chance - CT transport

Plainfield, CT 06374

Pet Types: dogs

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Rescue

45 miles

Sarah's Second Chance Dog Rescue

182 Skinner Rd, Vernon, CT 06066

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

47.3 miles

Beebe Humane Society NH Transport

Salem, NH 03079

Pet Types: dogs

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Shelter

49.1 miles

Save All Dogs Rescue

120 D Hale Rd, Manchester, CT 06042

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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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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