Ricky

Available

8 years and up|Shih Tzu|Male|Small|Orange, CA

♿️ Special needs🐾 Friendly☺️ Gentle🤗 Affectionate🤐 Quiet

Ricky

Available

8 years and up|Shih Tzu|Male|Small|Orange, CA

♿️ Special needs🐾 Friendly☺️ Gentle🤗 Affectionate🤐 Quiet

Ricky is a small Shih Tzu mix with a charming combination of black and white/cream in his medium-length coat. As a neutered senior male, he is up to date on his vaccinations and house trained, making him a wonderful, low-maintenance companion. Ricky has special needs related to his vision and requires some routine at-home care, but his adaptability and affectionate nature shine through. He is currently with Bichon Rescue Brigade, ready to find a peaceful forever home.

About Ricky

Click apply and let the tail-wagging begin! Meet Ricky, your gentle little sidekick who will bring warmth and companionship to your life. At around 8+ years old and weighing 13 lbs, this Shih Tzu mix is an affectionate soul happiest when close to his person—whether lounging at your side or coasting along in a stroller, Ricky is content just being with you. Ricky is mostly blind and sees only shadows, but he adapts quickly to his home environment once he learns the layout. Although he may have an old hind leg injury, he still enjoys easy walks and soaking in the sights at his own speed. This sweet dog is low maintenance and easygoing at home—he is house trained, does not suffer from separation anxiety, and while he may bark briefly, he settles quickly. Ricky’s enthusiasm for food makes bonding extra rewarding, and his calm, loyal nature will tug at your heartstrings. His ideal home is a peaceful, adult-only environment where he can truly relax. Ricky gets along with calm dogs, but not with cats or young children, and he requires someone who can provide midday potty breaks every 4–6 hours. For his care, you’ll just need to give him weekly medicated baths for his skin, eye ointment twice a day, and gabapentin as needed for comfort—tasks he takes in stride. Ricky is neutered, up to date on vaccinations, microchipped, and recently received a dental. He’s looking for a calm, loving home, where he can always stay close to his people. If you’re searching for a gentle and loyal companion, Ricky could be the perfect match. Think you are the one? Submit an application!

Questions about Ricky

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Shih Tzu mixes are well suited for calm indoor living and thrive in peaceful homes, making them ideal companions for both apartments and houses.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
Shih Tzu mixes do not require a large yard; regular short walks and some time outdoors are usually enough to keep them happy and healthy.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
Shih Tzu mixes can be suitable for homes with older or gentle children, but because of their size and temperament, supervision around young children is recommended.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
Shih Tzu mixes are a good choice for both first-time and experienced owners due to their generally friendly and adaptable nature.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Shih Tzu mixes are generally friendly and can get along well with other calm dogs, especially when introduced properly.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
While some Shih Tzu mixes can coexist with cats, individual temperaments vary, so slow introductions are recommended.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
Shih Tzu mixes are not known for a strong prey drive, but as with any dog, supervision is advised when they are around small animals.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
Shih Tzu mixes are usually friendly and polite with strangers, though they may be reserved at first before warming up.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
Shih Tzu mixes can tolerate being alone for a few hours, but they thrive best with regular human interaction and companionship.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
Shih Tzu mixes benefit from basic obedience training and gentle guidance to reinforce good behaviors and routines.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
Shih Tzu mixes are typically small dogs, often weighing between 9 and 16 pounds.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
Shih Tzu mixes generally enjoy a long lifespan, usually living between 10 and 16 years with proper care.
How much does this breed typically shed?
Shih Tzu mixes tend to be low shedders, especially when regularly groomed, making them a good choice for people who prefer less hair around the home.