Introducing a new puppy to your current dog is often an exciting process, and many dogs will become fast friends and eas...
Read MoreAdopt Me
Good news: As a resident of Utah, you’ll be pleased to hear that you’re living in the perfect place for a breed like the shih tzu. Not only is Utah home to the “5 Mighty” national parks, which will no doubt satiate the shih tzu’s hunger for adventure (on leash, of course), but it also boasts reasonable weather year-round. Plus, there is no shortage of reputable pet professionals in the area, including groomers, veterinarians, trainers, and even canine nutritionists.
While Utah can be a great home for the shih tzu, it’s important not to rush into adopting this pup. You need to understand the process before you start to avoid any problems or delays. You also need to take the time to learn about the shih tzu’s specific needs. For instance, they are prone to heatstroke because of their brachycephalic traits. While summers rarely ever become uncomfortably hot in Utah, it’s still crucial to keep them safe from the sun and take precautions accordingly.
To help, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about adopting a shih tzu in Utah. We’ll cover what to expect, the usual steps involved, and the cost of the process. We’ll also share some training tips to get you started on your journey as a responsible shih tzu owner.
Shih Tzu Adoption in Utah
The dog adoption process in Utah may seem complicated at first — but rest assured that it certainly isn’t as tedious (or daunting) as a hike in Zion National Park. It ultimately comes down to a few steps, and it begins with getting in touch with rescue agencies near you to find out more about their adoptable dogs. Ask if they have shih tzus available, and if they do, take the time to learn about each dog’s temperament and unique quirks to narrow down which one is the best fit for you.
Shih tzus are some of the most popular dogs around in Utah, and they can get adopted quickly. If you’re not having much luck finding shih tzus from your local shelters, make sure to expand your search to surrounding towns and cities. You should also make use of third-party pet adoption platforms and contact breed-specific rescue groups.
Once you’ve selected a shih tzu, you’ll usually need to fill out an adoption application form before anything else. This form serves as a way for the rescue to vet applicants to ensure their dogs are going to suitable, loving homes. You’ll be asked for details regarding your living arrangements, finances, pet ownership experience, and household members.
If approved, the staff will arrange for a meet and greet with the shih tzu. You may also be required to bring any other family members and pets who live with you along to the visit, particularly if the rescue shih tzu has a history of reactivity or anxiousness. Some rescues may have other checks to ensure you’re truly the best match for their dogs. For example, most shelters in Utah will want to do a home visit to ensure it’s safe.
If the meet and greet goes well, and you pass all the rescue’s checks, you can look to finalize the adoption. The final stage involves paying the adoption fee, signing the rescue’s contract, and bringing your new shih tzu home.
|
How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Shih Tzu in Utah?The cost to adopt a shih tzu in Utah can vary from shelter to shelter and on factors like the dog’s age. However, you can generally expect the cost to be no more than a few hundred. Most rescues in Utah set their adoption fees at around $50 to $550. Shih tzu puppies under five months tend to be the most expensive as there is more demand, while older shih tzus are usually the cheapest to adopt. As it is Utah state law for pets to be licensed, you will also need to factor in this cost. The license fee is usually between $25 and $75, depending on your specific location and the neutered status of your pet, and must be renewed yearly. |
How Should I Train a Shih Tzu?The shih tzu is a very intelligent and alert dog, though, as is the case for many small breeds, they can be stubborn without the right support. To ensure they pick up commands quickly, you’ll want to use reward-based techniques. These measures teach your shih tzu that following your commands and guidance brings plenty of positive experiences their way. They foster trust, build their confidence, and help them stay motivated. If you need help getting started with your shih tzu’s training, check out our range of online dog training courses. You’ll find courses to suit all different training goals, and we strongly recommend checking out our Basic Obedience Program for an overview of the main fundamentals. Shih tzus can be prone to anxiety and may feel overwhelmed in busy, public city areas in Colorado (e.g., the heart of Denver). If you plan to take them to these environments, make sure to work on any reactivity in advance to ensure they feel safe and comfortable. |
|
Find the Right Shih Tzu in Utah for You
The shih tzu is an adorable, loyal, and lively little companion. They can suit many different families in Utah as long as they’re cared for properly, and they’ll particularly thrive with individuals who can give them lots of attention throughout the day.
Finding the right shih tzu in Utah starts with sourcing a reputable rescue organization. Ask about their available dogs, review their adoptable shih tzus, and consider which one would fit best into your home and lifestyle. Be sure to ask the rescue staff plenty of questions throughout the process. The more information you have, the better position you’ll be in to know which rescue shih tzu is truly the best match for your home. Best of luck!
