Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Good with dogs,
Spayed or Neutered,
Story
Location: Airdrie, Ab //
Age: Approx 6 years old //
Sex: Spayed Female //
Energy level: Low-Medium //
Dogs: Yes, she will do best with a k9 companion //
Cats: Not tested but likely yes //
Kids: Older, calm, respectful kids //
🐾 Meet Stella! 🐾
Stella is an approximately 6-year-old Shih Tzu with a heart full of love and a little bit of fear standing in the way. ❤️ Having come from a breeding background, Stella is still learning what it means to be a cherished family pet. She’s shy and nervous around people, but there’s a sweet, affectionate girl hiding beneath that uncertainty, and she’s already showing little glimpses of the dog she could become with time, patience, and love. ❤️
Stella is a bit of a sweetheart in disguise! She’ll sometimes circle around you, keeping a close eye on you while trying to work up the courage to come closer. She might lick your fingers and wag her tail excitedly, only to retreat when you reach out to pet her. But once she feels safe enough to be picked up, her whole back end practically wiggles with happiness! Settle her on your lap, and she may relax right into you and even drift off for a nap. She also has a funny way of greeting people with a series of enthusiastic little barks, as if she’s saying, “Hi! Hi! Hi!” And when it’s time for a nap, don’t be surprised if you find her snoozing in the toy box! ❤️
Stella is still learning to trust and is not yet comfortable approaching people for affection consistently. She needs an adopter who understands that she may want attention but still feel too frightened to accept it. She isn’t ready to be whisked off on adventures or expected to cuddle on the couch right away. Instead, she needs a calm, predictable home where she can decompress, build confidence at her own pace, and discover that people can be kind and trustworthy. Every little step forward deserves to be celebrated. ❤️
Stella gets along wonderfully with other dogs and has a gentle, easygoing personality around her furry friends. She’s currently fostered with another approximately 6-year-old Shih Tzu named Cleo, and the girls enjoy cuddling and sleeping together. While they aren’t bonded and can be adopted separately, we would absolutely love to see Stella and Cleo find a home together! If adopted separately, Stella will need a friendly, confident resident dog to keep her company. If she’s adopted alongside Cleo, another resident dog isn’t necessary. 🐶🐶
Stella is still discovering all the little things that make life fun. She isn’t interested in toys or treats just yet, but she responds positively to gentle praise and is beginning to settle into her routine. She sleeps well in her kennel overnight, is learning her basic cues, and is making progress with her house training, although accidents are still happening. She’s also working on building her confidence with everyday handling and new experiences. Stella currently eats softened food because she has very few teeth. She will be recieving a dental soon❤️
Stella will thrive with a patient, gentle family who understands that earning her trust will take time. A quieter household with a consistent routine and a friendly canine companion would be ideal. She may not be the dog who rushes into your arms on the first day, but watching her slowly learn to trust, seek affection, and enjoy the comforts of a loving home will be incredibly rewarding. ❤️
Stella has so much potential, and we can’t wait for her to discover just how wonderful life can be. She deserves a family who sees the sweet girl she is today while giving her the time and support she needs to become even more confident tomorrow. 🏡💗
Could you be the person who helps Stella feel safe enough to let her little heart shine? Complete an application to speak with our team about Stella: https://www.ruffstartanimalrescue.com/dog-application-form
