Small breed · Toy Group
Shih Tzu Puppies for Sale near Venice, FL
Meet our Shih Tzu puppy at Waggles Puppy Boutique.
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Our Shih Tzu puppy near Venice, FL
At Waggles Puppy Boutique — come meet it in person.
Even more puppies to meet at Waggles Puppy Boutique
Breed profile
About the Shih Tzu
- Great with kids
- Lap dog
- Sticks by your side
- Alert watchdog
- Allergy friendly
Introducing the charming Shih Tzu, a breed that’s sure to steal your heart with its sweet personality and delightful appearance. These small dogs, often described as friendly and affectionate, thrive in family environments. With their gentle temperament and love for attention, Shih Tzus are a fantastic fit for families with young kids, as they tend to be very good with little ones. They also get along well with other dogs and cats, making them a well-rounded addition to your household.
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When it comes to energy levels, Shih Tzus are on the lower end of the spectrum. They prefer gentle walks and some casual playtime over vigorous exercise, making them an excellent choice for apartment living. Their size allows them to comfortably settle into smaller spaces, and they enjoy cozying up with their families. While they do need regular outdoor time, their laid-back nature means they will be just as happy lounging on the couch with you or playing quietly inside.
Grooming your Shih Tzu requires a bit more effort than some breeds. With a beautiful long coat that needs professional grooming, you’ll want to make sure they look their best. Keep in mind that they do shed moderately, which may require more frequent clean-up around the house. Regular brushing at home can help, but maintaining that luxurious coat will involve scheduling those grooming appointments.
In terms of training, Shih Tzus can be a bit stubborn, given their lower trainability. While they are affectionate and eager to please, it’s important to approach training with patience and positive reinforcement. They can be vocal at times, so early training on barking can also be beneficial. Overall, Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, it is wise to stay informed about potential health concerns and ensure regular vet visits. If you’re ready for a loving companion that fills your home with joy and affection, the Shih Tzu may just be the perfect pup for you!
- Adult weight
- 9–16 lbs
- Height
- 9–10 in
- Lifespan
- 10–16 years
- Exercise
- 30 min a day
What a Shih Tzu is like
Typical for the breed — individual puppies vary. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
- Affection Very affectionate
- Playfulness Very playful
- With strangers Friendly
- Territorial Territorial
- Prey drive Low
Family & other pets
- Young children Good
- Older children Good
- Other dogs Sociable
- Cats Usually fine
Energy & exercise
- Energy Low
- Mental stimulation Moderate
Training
- Trainability Takes patience
- Intelligence Bright
- Stubbornness Stubborn
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Care & upkeep
- Drooling Minimal
- Barking Vocal
Home life
- Apartment living Well suited
- Time alone Short periods
- Cold weather Needs a coat
- Warm weather Comfortable
A good match for
- First-time owners Ideal first dog
- Senior owners Excellent
- Running partner Not suited
- Hiking Not suited
- Therapy work Good
- Guarding Low
Living with a Shih Tzu
Temperament & Family Fit
The Shih Tzu is known for its friendly and affectionate nature, making it a wonderful addition to any family. These small dogs have a knack for getting along with children, other dogs, and even cats, creating a harmonious household. Their loving disposition means they'll often be right by your side, ready for cuddles and companionship.
Energy & Exercise
With a low energy level, the Shih Tzu is perfectly suited for apartment living and can get their exercise with short, leisurely walks. They enjoy playtime, but they're not overly demanding when it comes to physical activity, making them great for those with a more relaxed lifestyle. A few play sessions each day will keep them happy and content!
Care & Grooming
Grooming is an important aspect of caring for a Shih Tzu, as their luxurious coat requires professional grooming to maintain its beauty and health. Although they do shed, regular grooming can help manage loose hair and keep their coat looking fabulous. It's also nice to note that their minimal exercise needs means you can dedicate more time to keeping them well-groomed!
Training Notes
While Shih Tzus can be a bit stubborn, early socialization and consistent training efforts can yield great results. They may not be the easiest to train, but with patience and positive reinforcement, you can teach them basic commands and tricks. Just remember that these little bundles of joy thrive on affection, so mixing training with lots of love will keep both you and your pup motivated!
Caring for a Shih Tzu
- Grooming
- Professional grooming
- Grooming cost
- High
- Monthly food
- Average
- Outdoor space
- Manages without a yard
Health topics to ask about
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Respiratory Issues
Ask us what screening and records come with the Shih Tzu puppy you are interested in.
Plenty of Venice households are discovering what makes a Shih Tzu so special. They are content in apartments, condos and houses, as long as someone is home to keep them company. Most adult Shih Tzus weigh between 9 and 16 pounds and need only short daily walks.
For Venice families, that works out well, because Shih Tzus are happy with a stroll along downtown Venice Avenue and plenty of couch time afterward. They settle in nicely in beach cottages and active adult communities.
Waggles Puppy Boutique is about 40 minutes south on US 41 or Interstate 75, and every Shih Tzu we sell has a licensed vet exam, age appropriate vaccinations and a lifetime microchip. Stop by any day from 10am to 8pm to meet the Shih Tzus we have available.
Getting to Waggles Puppy Boutique from Venice
- Where they are
- Waggles Puppy Boutique
- Delivery
- Available to Venice, within 20 miles
- Local pickup
- Available by appointment
- Hours
- Mon-Sun 10am-8pm
- Call or text
- (941) 249-8851
Shih Tzu puppies for nearby cities
Shih Tzu FAQs
Common questions from families in Venice
What is the temperament of a Shih Tzu like?
Shih Tzus are known for their affectionate and friendly nature. They love being around their human companions and are generally very good with young kids, making them great family pets.
How suitable are Shih Tzus for apartment living?
Shih Tzus are incredibly apartment-friendly! Their small size and low energy level mean they can happily live in smaller spaces without needing vast areas to run around.
Do Shih Tzus get along with other pets?
Yes, Shih Tzus typically do well with other dogs and even cats! Their social nature means they'll likely enjoy interacting with other animals in the home.
How often do I need to groom my Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzus require professional grooming regularly due to their long, luxurious coats. Keeping their fur in good shape is important for their comfort and health.
Where are the Shih Tzu puppies?
Every Shih Tzu puppy we list is at, or on its way to, Waggles Puppy Boutique. Come meet them in person, or call or text and we'll send photos and videos.
How much does a Shih Tzu puppy cost near Venice, FL?
The price of a Shih Tzu puppy varies with lineage, coat color and age. Call or text Waggles Puppy Boutique for current pricing on our available Shih Tzus. We also offer financing options for those who prefer to pay over time.
Do you deliver Shih Tzus to Venice?
Yes — we deliver to Venice, FL and within a 20-mile radius, and local pickup is available. Contact us to arrange either.
Are your Shih Tzus health tested?
Our Shih Tzus receive health screenings and come with up-to-date vaccinations and their health records. Ask us about the health guarantee and any testing that applies to the one you are interested in.
Can I meet a Shih Tzu before deciding?
Yes — visit us at Waggles Puppy Boutique to meet the Shih Tzu puppies in person before you decide. We also offer video calls if you can't make the trip.
What is included when I take home a Shih Tzu?
Every Shih Tzu goes home with up-to-date vaccinations, deworming and their health records. Contact us for the full list of what is included with the one you are interested in.
Ready to meet your Shih Tzu?
Call or text Waggles Puppy Boutique and we will send photos and videos of the Shih Tzu puppy we have today — or come meet it in person.