Chocolate

Available

3-7 years|Shih Tzu|Male|Small|Seattle, WA

🐾 Friendly🎾 Playful🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Good with Children🐕 Dog Friendly🧠 Smart

Chocolate

Available

3-7 years|Shih Tzu|Male|Small|Seattle, WA

🐾 Friendly🎾 Playful🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Good with Children🐕 Dog Friendly🧠 Smart

Chocolate is a small, adult Shih Tzu in Seattle, WA. He has been neutered and his vaccinations are current. Chocolate does well with dogs and children, but doesn't get along with cats. He is making progress with house training and crate training, and he weighs around 18 pounds.

About Chocolate

Meet Chocolate, also known as Choco. He's a lively and loving small Shih Tzu with a curious streak. Around 18 pounds, Choco is neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped, ready for his new home. In foster care, he's made fast friends with a much larger lab, showing he's not intimidated by bigger dogs and actually enjoys having a playful canine companion. Chocolate brings a lot of energy—he loves to play and thrives on attention. He quickly calms down if those around him keep things mellow, and he enjoys pats and affection. This little guy is smart, food-motivated, and eager to learn. He's already working on commands like Come, Sit, and Stay, but he'll need more guidance as he grows. Potty training and crate training are in progress, with good results so far. At night, he sleeps quietly in his crate. Chocolate doesn't like to be left alone and will need someone patient as he learns to feel secure. He should be crated when left unsupervised, as he likes to chew things if bored. A well-fenced yard is essential—he’s clever and can slip out if given the chance. Choco is looking for an active person or family with a secure space and another playful dog, preferably with kids over 10. He’s not keen on cats but loves to go for walks, though he’s still mastering a straight path. Ready to meet your new best friend? Apply now!

Questions about Chocolate

What type of living environment is this breed usually best suited for?
Shih Tzus like Chocolate adapt well to apartments or houses, especially when they receive regular exercise and companionship. He thrives in homes where someone is around most of the day.
How much outdoor space does this breed typically need?
Chocolate, as a small Shih Tzu, doesn't need a huge yard but does benefit from a secure, fenced area to play. Regular walks and playtime are important to keep him happy.
Is this breed typically suitable for homes with children?
Shih Tzus are generally great with kids, especially those old enough to treat them gently. Chocolate gets along with children and would do best with kids over 10.
Is this breed usually better for first-time or experienced owners?
Chocolate’s breed is a good choice for both first-time and experienced dog owners, though his high energy and need for continued training may require some patience from beginners.
Does this breed typically get along with dogs?
Shih Tzus, including Chocolate, usually do well with other dogs, especially if they have friendly, playful temperaments. Chocolate prefers a home with another playful dog.
Does this breed typically get along with cats?
Chocolate does not get along with cats. Shih Tzus can be variable with felines, but in his case, a cat-free home is best.
Does this breed typically get along with small animals?
Shih Tzus are generally social, but their prey drive is minimal. Still, since Chocolate doesn’t like cats, supervision with other small animals is wise.
How does this breed typically behave with strangers?
Chocolate’s breed tends to be friendly and outgoing, though individual dogs might be a bit reserved. With proper introductions, most Shih Tzus warm up easily.
How long can this breed typically be left alone?
Chocolate shouldn't be left alone for long periods; Shih Tzus form strong bonds with their people and can become anxious if left alone too much, as is true for him.
What level of training does this breed usually require?
Shih Tzus like Chocolate benefit from consistent positive training. They are smart but can be stubborn, so patience and food motivation help them succeed.
What size range does this breed generally fall into?
Chocolate, as a small Shih Tzu, typically falls in the 9-16 pound range, making him a compact companion.
What is the typical lifespan of this breed?
Shih Tzus often enjoy a long life, with an average lifespan of 10 to 16 years. Chocolate has many good years ahead.
How much does this breed typically shed?
Shih Tzus like Chocolate are low-shedding dogs, but they require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and mat-free.