Nico

Available

3-7 years|Shih Tzu, Maltese|Male|Small|League City, TX

🐾 Friendly☺️ Gentle🧠 Smart🐕 Dog Friendly🎾 Playful

Nico

Available

3-7 years|Shih Tzu, Maltese|Male|Small|League City, TX

🐾 Friendly☺️ Gentle🧠 Smart🐕 Dog Friendly🎾 Playful

Nico is a small, adult, neutered male Shih Tzu/Maltese mix with a medium coat, sporting black and white/cream fur. He’s currently located in League City, TX. Nico does well around other dogs and is comfortable in a routine environment. Though he’s not fully house trained yet, he thrives on regular outdoor breaks. He appreciates gentle care given his history of orthopedic surgery, and he’ll fit best in a home without small children.

About Nico

Nico is a 7.5-year-old Shih Tzu/Maltese mix who’s made real progress after a rocky start. His life so far hasn’t been easy—he came into rescue after not adapting to small children in his home and needing orthopedic care for both ACLs. He’s already had leg surgeries that went well, and though he still needs routine potty breaks, he’s adjusting to new routines and enjoying life. Nico gets along with other dogs, mostly passive but can hold his own if needed. He’s happiest getting belly rubs, lounging inside or on the patio, and turns into a cheerful little shadow to his person. He loves toys, a hearty meal, and being part of daily life. He’s generally gentle, smart, and learns quickly, though leash walks are a work in progress and he gets timid outside his comfort zone. Nico rides in the car fine after a few minutes, eats without fuss, and loves a good spa day. He’s content sleeping in his crate or in bed with his foster family and soaks up attention but needs help with stairs and can’t jump on furniture. No small children, please—he’s simply too anxious around them. Crate and puppy pad trained, but like many small dogs, he may have accidents if left too long. Nico barks at strangers passing by but settles with reassurance, and generally greets visitors with excitement. He’s affectionate but not clingy, will curl up where he can see you, and rarely gives kisses but enjoys petting and attention. A quiet, dog-friendly home with company and regular routine would suit Nico best. Ready to meet your new best friend? Apply now!

Questions about Nico

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Nico, being a Shih Tzu/Maltese mix, tends to thrive in a calm household where there’s someone around to spend time with him. He is best matched to homes without small children and with dog-friendly routines.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
Shih Tzu/Maltese mixes like Nico enjoy access to a secure yard or patio for lounging and short play, but they don’t need large outdoor spaces to be happy. Regular potty breaks and some time outside are just right.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
Generally, Shih Tzu/Maltese mixes can be gentle, but Nico prefers a home without young children due to previous anxiety. He’ll do better where things are calmer and less hectic.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
Nico is a good fit for adopters who have some dog experience or are willing to learn. His routine care and initial shyness on walks may be easier to manage for someone who’s patient or has had small dogs before.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Nico gets along with other dogs and enjoys their company, though he’ll stand his ground if challenged. Most Shih Tzu/Maltese mixes are sociable if introduced properly.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
Nico’s profile doesn’t mention cats specifically, but Shih Tzu/Maltese mixes often adapt to households with cats if introduced slowly and supervision is provided.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
While not known for high prey drive, Nico’s breed mix should be introduced carefully to small animals. Calm supervision at first is always smart.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
Nico greets visitors with tail wags and excitement once he’s comfortable. Shih Tzu/Maltese mixes can be friendly but may initially bark at newcomers before settling.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
Nico is used to being left for a few hours in a safe space with water and a puppy pad. Shih Tzu/Maltese mixes do best with regular check-ins and don’t like being alone for whole workdays.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
Nico is still perfecting his house training and learning to walk confidently on leash. His breed mix is generally smart and responds well to positive reinforcement and routine training.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
Shih Tzu/Maltese mixes like Nico are small dogs, usually weighing under 15 pounds. Nico fits this size at about 12.7 lbs.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
Shih Tzus and Malteses generally live 12 to 16 years, so Nico, at 7.5, is middle-aged and has plenty of years ahead with proper care.
How much does this breed typically shed?
Nico’s mix tends toward minimal to moderate shedding, especially with regular grooming. Both Shih Tzu and Maltese breeds have coats that require brushing more than vacuuming.