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Arizona is notorious for its extreme heat — and while this does mean it feels like summer break throughout the year, it can pose some challenges if you’re looking to adopt a shih tzu. This is because the breed is brachycephalic, meaning they can struggle to regulate their body temperature and are a lot more susceptible to heatstroke than other breeds.
Still, that doesn’t mean the shih tzu can’t feel at home in Arizona. As long as you’re cautious and avoid taking them out during the hottest parts of the day, they can still happily adapt to life here. Plus, there are plenty of well-established pet professionals in Arizona who can support you throughout your pup’s lifetime. This includes groomers specializing in long coats, which is sure to come in handy considering the shih tzu’s fur type.
To get you started, we’ll cover how to adopt a shih tzu in Arizona below. It’s crucial to understand the process every step of the way, as this will ensure you don’t encounter any delays or problems. It also means you’ll end up with the very best possible companion for you and your family.
Shih Tzu Adoption in Arizona
The shih tzu may be small and cuddly, but don’t underestimate just how much attention they need to thrive. They can quickly turn to destructive habits without enough mental and physical stimulation each day. Their brachycephalic qualities also require special attention, particularly due to Arizona’s hot climate. That’s why we (and virtually every rescue in Arizona) will advise you to learn all you can about the breed before you look to adopt one.
If you’re set on the shih tzu, then the adoption process starts by finding adoptable shih tzus in Arizona. Contact rescue agencies near your home, browse online pet adoption websites, and reach out to other shih tzu owners in the community. It’s also worth getting in touch with local pet professionals, as they may have some contacts on hand (like the phone numbers of dedicated shih tzu rescue groups).
When you find a shih tzu who seems like a perfect match, the next step is to submit a rehoming application form to the rescue. This form is used to gather information about a potential adopter’s living situation, lifestyle, preferences, household members, and previous experience with pets. The rescue will review your answers carefully and get in contact if they think you’re well-suited for the shih tzu. After that, you’ll usually be invited to a meet-and-greet to give you a chance to bond with them.
Some rescues may have further screening measures to vet potential owners. The most common include home checks, interviews, and meetings with other members of your household. No matter which rescue you work with, be mindful that you’ll need to have a valid ID and be at least 18 years old.
Once you and the staff are happy the shih tzu is “the one” for you, you’ll sign the rescue’s contract and pay an adoption fee to make it official. You can then bring your new shih tzu home and get ready to begin your new (and no doubt joy-filled) life with them.
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How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Shih Tzu in Arizona?The adoption fee for a shih tzu in Arizona varies based on factors like where you’re situated and the dog’s age. On average, you should expect to pay around $75 to $450, with shih tzu puppies often priced higher than older dogs. You can usually find detailed information about a rescue’s pricing structure on its official website. However, if this information isn’t readily available online, be sure to ask staff directly. Once you’ve finalized the adoption process, you’ll also need to budget each month for your shih tzu’s care. Arizona has a fairly high cost of living across the board, so you’ll likely need to allocate at least $1,000 each year if you’re looking to give your shih tzu a comfortable and happy life. This money will cover expenses like premium dog food, toys, routine vet checkups, and grooming trips. |
How Should I Train a Shih Tzu?Training a shih tzu can feel quite unnerving, particularly if you’re a first-time owner. However, it becomes a whole lot more effortless (and enjoyable) once you understand the fundamentals: Be patient, maintain consistency, and use reward-based techniques. Reward-based methods place the emphasis on what your shih tzu is doing right, which helps them stay motivated and engaged during training sessions. They also foster trust as they show your shih tzu that following your commands brings plenty of goodies their way. For further guidance on how to use reward-based techniques, check out our online training courses. Each program is built on reward-based training methods and can be studied in your own time, and at a pace that’s convenient for you (and your little shih tzu). Since many places in Arizona have stringent leash laws, we advise checking out our loose leash walking course as well. |
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Find the Right Shih Tzu in Arizona for You
Living with a shih tzu means your days will soon be filled with fun, excitement, and adorable moments — and yes, you’ll find they’ll warm your heart more than the sun in Arizona ever could.
If you know you have the patience and means to show a rescue shih tzu what a forever family (and true love) is all about, then get ready to begin your adoption journey!
As you review adoptable shih tzus, carefully consider which one aligns best with your home, lifestyle, and preferences. Don’t rush the process and be patient if you can’t find the perfect match straight away. The right shih tzu is waiting out there somewhere in Arizona for you, and you’ll know in your heart once you meet them.
