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Shih tzus are little fluffballs with big personalities. They’ll follow you around the house, give you side eyes like they’re judging your life choices, and steal your favorite spot on the couch. Once you experience their love, you’ll never want to trade them for anything in the world.
These easy-going dogs don’t need spacious yards or weekend hiking adventures to stay fit. This is why they make excellent companions for people living in apartments. Since Louisiana’s warm and humid climate can be challenging for these double-coated, short-faced dogs, they’ll be better off indoors anyway.
Adopting a shih tzu is your chance to reassure a previously-abandoned dog that they matter. Plus, you’ll earn a sidekick who’ll happily watch you cook or binge-watch shows with you like it’s their full-time job. Ready to bring one home? Let’s find out how to adopt a shih tzu in Louisiana.
Shih Tzu Adoption in Louisiana
Start your search for your new best friend by joining breed-specific groups on Facebook to find rescues and shelters that deal with small, playful dogs. Many organizations are active members of such communities and share pictures of available dogs often.
Once a post catches your eye, contact the rescue for more details. In most cases, you’ll be asked to submit an adoption application first. It’ll have questions about your daily schedule, experience with dogs, and expectations for the breed. This information helps organizations pair their dogs with the right families.
After your application gets approved, you’ll be invited for a friendly chat. The team will tell you more about the breed, like its temperament and training needs, so you can make an informed choice. Some also request a home tour to help new parents puppy-proof their homes for a warmer welcome.
Next, you’ll get to spend some time with the dog. Observe how playful and responsive they are. Also, look for signs of good health, like a well-maintained coat, clear eyes, and clean ears. If there’s an on-site vet, request them to give the dog a quick physical check to rule out any skin allergies.
If everything checks out, complete the paperwork to claim your pup. You must also collect your dog’s documents, like vaccination records and health certificates, so your vet can work out a care routine. The staff might offer a starter kit with some kibble and toys to help you and your dog settle in.
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How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Shih Tzu in Louisiana?The adoption centers in the Bayou State charge between $100 and $250 for young and healthy shih tzus. The fee includes all essential vet services, like vaccinations, deworming, microchipping, and neutering or spaying. Since every organization has its own policies, it’s better to ask what’s covered to avoid any surprises later on. Once you bring your pup home, you’ll be responsible for their food, healthcare, and training. As small dogs, shih tzus don’t eat a lot or need intensive workouts. However, their grooming needs are high. With essential supplies, consistent training, and vet visits, you’re looking at $1,500 to $2,000 a year. |
How Should I Train a Shih Tzu?Shih tzus are smart dogs with a touch of stubbornness. You’ll need a clear routine and firm boundaries to help them understand what’s expected of them. Use treats, playtime, and praise to motivate them. As social butterflies, these fluffy dogs enjoy meeting new people. However, their excitement can sometimes get the best of them, causing them to jump on guests only to say “hey there.” Train them to greet politely by asking them to sit before getting attention or treats. It might take some time, but with consistency, they’ll quickly catch on. Crate training your shih tzu can make them calmer and more confident. They’ll learn to enjoy their own company, control their bladder, and feel safe in your absence. Just make sure you keep the crate cozy with soft bedding and toys, and never use it as punishment. Dog Academy’s Crate Training course can help you pick the right-sized crate for your pup. |
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Find the Right Shih Tzu in Louisiana for You
A shih tzu will enter your life like a bouncy wiggle bug and quickly take over your heart. They might keep you on your toes 24/7, but they will also fill your days with joy. Living with them means getting surprise cuddles when you least expect them. If you’ve been looking for a dog who’ll follow you everywhere, adopting a shih tzu might just be the best decision you ever make.
