How Much Does a Shih Tzu Cost?

• Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

The Shih Tzu is a breed beloved by dog fans worldwide, and it’s not hard to see why. With their luxurious coats and affectionate natures, Shih Tzus can be incredibly rewarding pets for many families. And as with all pups, it’s a good idea to be prepared for their cost.

Shih Tzus aren’t as expensive as some popular show breeds, but they’re still an investment. We dive into the the true cost of owning a Shih Tzu, from initial purchase prices to ongoing care expenses.

At a Glance: Shih Tzu Traits and Temperament

With a healthy life expectancy between 10 and 16 years, Shih Tzus are small, affectionate, and playful dogs with long silky hair that comes in many different colors and combinations. You’ll find Shih Tzus that are:

• Black
• Blue
• White
• Gold
• Red
• Liver
• Silver
• Tricolor

Although Shih Tzus have long silky coats that require extra grooming, they’re a popular choice for people with mild allergies, since shedding is minimal.

Shih Tzus can be prone to separation anxiety, which makes them a good fit for families who often have a person around at home—or who like to bring their pups with them.

Costs of Buying or Adopting a Shih Tzu

The cost of buying a Shih Tzu from a reputable breeder can range significantly. At the low end, pet parents might spend around $500—but a Shih Tzu with championship show-dog lineage could easily sell for $5,000. A teacup or miniature Shih Tzu typically costs between $1,500 and $2,000.

Adopting a Shih Tzu from a pet rescue or humane society lowers these costs dramatically—you can often find one between $100 and $300, which may include microchipping, spaying/neutering, and vaccinations.

Shih Tzu Costs: First Year to Adolescence

Like other toy breeds, Shih Tzus reach maturity relatively quickly, at around 10 months of age.

Below are prices that Shih Tzu pet parents can expect to pay during their puppy’s first year, though costs will depend on where you live and the specific services and items you buy.

Item	From	To
Initial vaccinations and preventive care	$375	$1,085
Microchipping	$60	$80
Spaying/neutering	$340	$1,500
Dog care basics	$120	$1,460
Food*	$176	$528
Treats	$96	$192
Grooming**	$300	$430
Training	$100	$275
Annual Exams***	$280	$440
Pet Insurance	$336	$1,080
Annual Cost	$2,183	$7,070

*$43.99 per 12.5-lb. bag, every month to 3 months at ½ cup to 1 ½ cups per day
**$50-$70 a session every 2 months
***$70-$110 per visit, at 4 visits

Ongoing Expenses for Adult Shih Tzus

Shih Tzus are usually considered adults until about 9 or 10 years old, when they earn senior-citizen status.

Below are common expenses pet parents can expect to pay for their adult Shih Tzu. Prices will vary based on your location and the specific veterinary services and products you choose.

Item	From	To
Annual vaccinations and preventive care	$270	$615
Annual exams	$70	$110
Food*	$503	$870
Treats	$96	$192
Grooming	$300	$430
Dental care	$300	$2,500
Other supplies	$125	$410
Pet Insurance	$336	$1,080
Annual Total	$2,000	$6,207

*$61.99 per 10 lb. bag, every 26 to 45 days at ⅞ to 1 1/2  cups of kibble per day

Possible Expenses for Shih Tzus

Shih Tzu parents can expect most expenses to remain the same when their pup hits their golden years, with the exception of veterinary costs. Older dogs often develop more health issues as they age, and you can expect to spend more on veterinary care.

Bloodwork, for example, is likely to become necessary more often, as many senior dogs need to have regular testing done to make sure their medications are working correctly. Blood work typically costs between $100 and $200 per visit.

Because of ongoing and additional costs like these, it’s worth considering purchasing a pet insurance policy when your Shih Tzu is young—before pre-existing conditions come into play—or starting a pet savings account early so it has time to grow.

Shih Tzu Costs: Common Health Conditions

Shih Tzus are typically healthy dogs, but they’re a brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed—which means they’re at greater risk for developing breathing issues. They’re vulnerable to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, in which very narrow nostrils and a long soft palate make breathing difficult.

Mild cases may be managed with certain lifestyle choices for your pup, but more serious cases require surgery.

Shih Tzus may also be more prone to hip dysplasia and patellar luxation, two of the most common orthopedic conditions in dogs.

Below is an average range of costs that Shih Tzu parents may expect for treating these problems.

• Brachycephalic syndrome: $500 to $1,000
• Hip dysplasia: Between $1,700 and $4,500 for surgery
• Patellar luxation: $1,500 to $3,000 per affected knee

Note that the amount of money you’ll spend at the vet depends on your geographic location and the kind of clinic or practice you choose.

Shih Tzu Costs: Dog Training

Shih Tzus are highly trainable, but they may come with a stubborn streak because of their intelligence. Training them early is key.

Every Shih Tzu is different and will have different training needs. Some will do well in group classes, while others may get distracted and learn better in a focused, one-on-one training setting.

Average training costs will vary depending on the location and service:

• Training facility: $200 to $600 per week
• Group classes: $100 to $275 for a 4-6 week class; for more advanced training, expect at least $300 and three months of training
• Online training: $60-$100 per hour
• Professional service dog training: $150-250 an hour, total cost dependent on the skills and services you’re trying to teach your dog

Saving for Unexpected Costs

Being a pet parent often comes with unexpected costs that are tough to plan for financially. This includes things like:

• Emergency vet costs, due to an accident or illness
• Boarding fees, due to a planned trip or unexpected family emergency
• Dental care, including treatments and preventive care

How dog insurance can help