Maggie is a 14‑year‑old, 20‑lb Shih Tzu mix who absolutely doesn’t act her age — shh, don’t tell her she’s a senior!
Quick Facts:
Name: Maggie
Breed: Shih Tzu mix
Age: 14 years old
Weight: 20 lbs.
House-Trained: Yes
Crate-Trained: No (does not like being crated, but she can be left out when you are not home)
Good with Dogs: Yes
Good with Cats: Not tested
Good with Kids: Not tested (likely fine with calmer, respectful children)
Energy Level: Low (affectionate couch potato)
Fence Required: No
Dog's Location: Clayton, NC
About Maggie’s Breed:
Our best guess is that Maggie is a Shih Tzu breed. Shih Tzus are affectionate, people oriented little companion dogs known for their sweet nature, soft coats, and calm, easygoing personalities. They were bred to be lap dogs, and most Shih Tzus adore relaxing close to their humans, enjoying gentle play, and soaking up attention. They’re typically friendly, adaptable, and thrive in homes where they can feel secure, loved, and part of the daily routine.
Their ideal home is one that offers consistent companionship, a calm environment, and steady routines. Shih Tzus do wonderfully with families who enjoy cuddles, short walks, and quiet time together. They’re well suited for adults, seniors, or families with respectful children, and they flourish when given patient guidance, positive training, and regular grooming to keep their beautiful coats healthy. With love and stability, Shih Tzus become incredibly devoted, gentle companions.
What to Love about Maggie:
Don’t let her age fool you, Maggie still has pep in her step, a sweet spark in her personality, and a deeply affectionate, people‑oriented nature! She loves being near her person/people, following from room to room, sitting on the couch beside you, or curling up on the floor by your feet. She’s independent but deeply connected, happiest simply keeping you company. She prefers sleeping under the bed or on a soft dog bed and rides beautifully in the car.
Maggie is potty trained and pee‑pad trained, though her biggest challenge is getting outside (she’d rather be indoors) — she seems to have lived most of her life as an indoor dog who only went out on leash. She doesn’t like being crated and will bark if confined, but she’s perfectly trustworthy left loose in the home. She may be hard of hearing, but she responds well to the hand signals she’s learned in her foster home. Maggie is wonderful with all people and while she hasn’t met children yet, she would likely do well with gentle, dog‑savvy kids who respect her age and lower energy level. She’s fine with other dogs, especially calm companions, and is open to a meet and greet with cats.
While her energy is generally low, Maggie has adorable bursts of excitement when food is involved — she even does a little “happy dance” at mealtime! She enjoys short strolls around the yard or neighborhood and walks nicely on leash. Maggie is ready for a calm, loving home where she can enjoy her golden years surrounded by comfort, companionship, and plenty of affection. She has so much love left to give!
Maggie’s Masterful Highlights:
14‑year‑old, 20‑lb Shih Tzu mix who doesn’t act her age and still has pep in her step
Affectionate and people‑oriented — follows her person from room to room and loves companionship
Independent but connected — prefers to be near you but is content relaxing on her own
Potty trained and pee‑pad trained — still learning to go outside consistently
Crate‑averse senior who barks when confined but is perfectly trustworthy left loose
Great with all people and likely good with gentle, dog‑savvy kids
Calm with other dogs — doesn’t play but coexists beautifully with low‑energy companions
Hard of hearing and responds well to hand signals learned in her foster home
Food‑motivated sweetheart who does an adorable “happy dance” at mealtime
Enjoys short strolls and is ready for a calm, loving home to enjoy her golden years
Comprehensive details are provided in the dog's description. Please note that questions via email or social media channels may not receive a response without a completed application. As part of our commitment to responsible adoption practices, we require excellent veterinarian references and conduct virtual home visits. Additionally, your prior or current dog must be on year-round heartworm prevention. We assist with coordinating transportation by both land and air whenever feasible. All assessments regarding breed and age are conducted by licensed veterinarians. We look forward to assisting you in finding your perfect canine companion!