Obi is a delightful 10-year-old Shih Tzu who has settled beautifully into foster care and completely charmed everyone he meets. Despite his years, Obi firmly believes he’s much younger, he’s lively, playful and full of character, and has quickly become a much-loved part of his foster family.
Obi is a pleasure to walk. He walks nicely on the lead, doesn’t pull, happily keeps pace and is generally friendly with other dogs he encounters, often choosing to politely ignore them. He enjoys getting out and about but is just as happy heading home for a cuddle afterwards.
People are very much Obi’s world. He loves being close to his humans and would choose snuggling on the sofa or sitting on a lap over almost anything else. He’s affectionate, well-mannered and mostly obedient, he will sit and wait when asked and has learned to go to the back door to let you know when he needs to go outside. He also enjoys his food and treats, which certainly helps with his training.
Obi is full of personality and has a lovely playful side. He’s quite the little chatterbox and will happily “talk” to his people, appearing to listen intently to any replies. He isn’t barky, only really voicing an opinion when the doorbell rings.
Once Obi knows you, he is incredibly loving. He adores strokes, head massages, cuddles and will even offer up his tummy for a rub when he’s feeling relaxed and secure. He sleeps well at night (often choosing the comfort of the bed) and enjoys snoozing in his own bed during the day. He has good house manners and will only hop onto chairs or furniture when invited.
While Obi has shown no aggression in foster care, he can be startled if grabbed unexpectedly and can become over-excited in busy situations. For transparency, Obi has snapped on two occasions in the past. One incident involved a child who jumped on top of him and placed him in a headlock, and the other involved an adult getting very close to his face during an over-exuberant chest rub. In both situations, Obi was overwhelmed and reacted as a way of asking for space. He has not shown unprovoked aggression in his foster home and communicates well when his boundaries are respected. For this reason, Obi will only be considered for a calm, adult-only home where interactions are gentle, predictable and his signals are understood. In the right environment, Obi is relaxed, affectionate and a joy to live with.
Overall, Obi is a wonderful companion dog who quickly becomes your little shadow. He would thrive in a home with a secure garden, where he can enjoy plenty of company, affection and gentle adventures, and in return he will offer loyalty, love and endless cuddles.
If you’re looking for a devoted, characterful companion to share your life (and your sofa), Obi may be the perfect match. As a non-moult breed please consider the expense of regular grooming before submitting an application.
