--- title: Boarding a Shih Tzu | Happy Paws Kennels url: https://happypawskennels.com/breeds/shih-tzu/ business: Happy Paws Kennels address: 6677 Midway Road, Dixon, CA 95620 phone: 707-678-6600 hours: drop-off and pick-up every day 7:30-11:30 AM and 2:00-5:00 PM type: Dog and cat boarding kennel on about 10 country acres; caring for pets in Dixon since 1971 rates: 2026 rates, effective for reservations made on or after Jan 1, 2026 (dogs from $52 a night, cats $35 a night) --- - [Home](https://happypawskennels.com/) - [Breed guides](https://happypawskennels.com/breeds/) - Shih Tzu # Boarding a Shih Tzu A Shih Tzu usually fits an Economy Class kennel, 4 x 4 ft inside, at $52 a night on the 2026 rates. [Book a stay](https://happypawskennels.propetware.com/customerLogin)[Call 707-678-6600](tel:+17076786600) - **Weight (AKC):** 9 to 16 lb - **Kennel:** Economy Class, 4 x 4 ft - **Per night:** $52 - **Bath (2024 chart):** $35 to $45 A Shih Tzu is a small dog, 9 to 16 pounds by the AKC, with a long double coat, so one fits an Economy kennel (4x4 ft, $52 a night on the 2026 rates). On the 2024 bath chart the Extra Long or Double Coated column shows $35 for 15 pounds or less and $45 at 16 to 25. AKC describes a thousand years of Lion Dog charm, with giggles and mischief wherever they go. A Shih Tzu is a lap dog who also likes a trot. ## Economy At 9 to 10.5 inches tall, a Shih Tzu uses little space. Two from one home share Economy, $52 plus $44. ## Long coat AKC rates shedding at 1 of 5. The long hair mats if unbrushed, and the bath cell is $35 or $45 depending on weight. A shorter puppy clip falls in Medium at $30 or $40. Ask to confirm. ## Short noses A Shih Tzu has a short muzzle. Keep exercise gentle in the heat and use the air-conditioned inside half. See [flat-faced dogs](https://happypawskennels.com/breeds/flat-faced-dogs/). ## Energy Energy 3 of 5: walks and a little play. Eyes can get messy, and staff are glad to follow your routine. ## Cost examples Economy is $52 a night on the 2026 rates. A week is 7 x $52, and two Shih Tzu from one home are $52 plus $44. At 14 nights or more the rate is $47. ## Eyes, face and food Tell the staff if your dog's eyes need wiping or drops. Medications are given at no extra charge. Send your food in the original bag with cups, or use the free house food. ## Check-in Leave your Shih Tzu in the car and staff will carry the bag and bring him in. Bring one toy, not the favorite. ## Records and paperwork Rabies, distemper/parvo and Bordetella records must be good through the last day. Canine influenza is recommended but not required. Puppies must be 16 weeks or older before the first day. A boarding agreement is signed once. ## Hot pavement and tiny feet On a hot afternoon the staff may scoop a small dog up and hurry across the pavement. Spring and fall are comfortable, and summer runs are air-conditioned. ## Booking Request a stay online through Book / My Account, or call 707-678-6600. The kennel confirms every reservation. ## Short visits For a day out between trips, dog day care is $38 a day, or hourly at $7 up to $38. ## What owners notice Google reviewers often mention the caring, friendly people and the cleanliness, which matter to owners of small, sensitive dogs. ### Sources (checked October 19, 2026) - [American Kennel Club - Shih Tzu breed page](https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/shih-tzu/) - [Happy Paws Kennels 2026 rate sheet (PDF)](https://happypawskennels.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/2026-Rates-EFFECTIVE-1-1-26.pdf) - [Happy Paws Kennels bathing rates effective January 1, 2024](https://happypawskennels.com/rates/) - [NOAA NCEI U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020](https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/data/normals-monthly/1991-2020/access/) ### 2026 nightly rates - First Class kennel $72 - Business Class kennel $59 - Economy Class kennel $52 - Cat condo $35 All-inclusive: food, medications and walks. 2026 rates, effective for reservations made on or after Jan 1, 2026. [All 2026 rates](https://happypawskennels.com/rates/) ### Visit or call 6677 Midway Road, Dixon, CA 95620 [707-678-6600](tel:+17076786600) | Drop-off and pick-up, every day | 7:30 to 11:30 AM and 2:00 to 5:00 PM | | --- | --- | | Tours, every day (no appointment) | 9:00 to 11:00 AM and 2:00 to 4:00 PM | [Book a stay](https://happypawskennels.propetware.com/customerLogin) ### Related - [Boarding flat-faced (brachycephalic) dogs in the heat](https://happypawskennels.com/breeds/flat-faced-dogs/) - [Boarding small dogs](https://happypawskennels.com/breeds/small-dogs/) - [Economy Class kennel](https://happypawskennels.com/dog-boarding/economy-class-kennel/) - [Boarder baths](https://happypawskennels.com/baths/) - [Maltese](https://happypawskennels.com/breeds/maltese/) ## Which kennel class fits? How many dogs? Biggest dog They will share one kennel Pick how many dogs and the biggest one's size. A guide from the sizes on our facility page. The staff confirm the right kennel when you book. ## Bath price finder Your dog's weight Coat Pick a weight and coat. From the bath chart effective January 1, 2024. The 2026 sheet prices baths on request, so please ask to confirm. Baths are for overnight boarders. ## Read next - [Bernese Mountain Dog](https://happypawskennels.com/breeds/bernese-mountain-dog/) - [Pomeranian](https://happypawskennels.com/breeds/pomeranian/) - [Boston Terrier](https://happypawskennels.com/breeds/boston-terrier/) - [Havanese](https://happypawskennels.com/breeds/havanese/) - [English Springer Spaniel](https://happypawskennels.com/breeds/english-springer-spaniel/) - [Shetland Sheepdog](https://happypawskennels.com/breeds/shetland-sheepdog/) - [Brittany](https://happypawskennels.com/breeds/brittany/) - [Cocker Spaniel](https://happypawskennels.com/breeds/cocker-spaniel/) Answers ## Questions people ask Still have a question? Call [707-678-6600](tel:+17076786600) (every day 7:30-11:30 AM and 2-5 PM) or see the [boarding FAQ](https://happypawskennels.com/faq/). ### Can I board with my Shih Tzu's topknot? Yes, it stays as you left it. ### Is a small dog lonely? Sharing with a housemate is available. ### What if my Shih Tzu does not eat? Staff tell you at pick-up.