How expensive is it to own a Shih Tzu?

Being a Shih Tzu pet parent is a rewarding experience, full of fun and snuggles! But before you jump into caring for one of these little furballs, let’s talk about how much a Shih Tzu costs.

So, how expensive is it to own a Shih Tzu? From the initial Shih Tzu price to monthly expenses, let’s break down the numbers and see how you can keep your budget (and your Shih Tzu) happy.

How much do Shih Tzus cost?

Looking for a new canine companion and wondering, “how expensive is a Shih Tzu?” On average, Shih Tzu puppies cost between $500 to $3,000. However, the cost of a Shih Tzu can vary significantly depending on factors like lineage, breeder reputation, location, and specific characteristics. For a Teacup Shih Tzu or a Chocolate Shih Tzu, the price can go even higher. 

It’s important you get your Shih Tzu from a reputable breeder or consider adopting from a rescue shelter – we’ll cover more on this below.

Why are Shih Tzus so expensive?

So, why is the cost of a Shih Tzu puppy so pricey? Well, firstly, these cute, cuddly companions are very popular which makes their prices higher. Plus, responsible breeders invest in quality breeding practices such as health checks, good breeding practices, and top-notch care for their dogs, which, in our opinion, is well worth the cost.

How much is a Mini Shih Tzu?

So, you're dreaming of a pint-sized fluffball? A mini Shih Tzu can cost up to $3,000.

How much is a Teacup Shih Tzu?

An even smaller version of the Mini Shih Tzu: a Teacup Shih Tzu price can be anywhere from $1,000 to a whopping $5,000. Yep, you read that right. A Teacup Shih Tzu costs so much more mainly due to higher demand and breeding expenses. It's also worth keeping in mind that due to the breeding process involved, sadly, Teacup Shih Tzus are more prone to health conditions compared to their fully-sized Shih Tzu cousins.

How much is a Chocolate Shih Tzu?

A Chocolate Shih Tzu price can be anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000. The price of these mini teddy bears can vary depending on the breeder and the dog’s lineage.

How much does a Maltese Shih Tzu cost?

If you’re on the hunt for a dog that’s the perfect mix of fluff and personality, you’ll find the cost of a Maltese Shih Tzu can go up to $2,500. 

How much does a Shih Tzu Poodle cost?

Looking for a dog that’s got all the charm of a Shih Tzu mixed with the smarts of a Poodle? A Shih Tzu Poodle (or “Shih-Poo” as some like to call them), will typically cost up to $2,000.

How much does a Shih Tzu dog cost to keep?

The cost of a Shih Tzu isn't just about the initial purchase price — there are many ongoing costs to consider to make sure your cuddlebug lives a healthy and happy life. Here's a breakdown of potential ongoing expenses:

Veterinary expenses

Regular vet care is vital for your Shih Tzu’s health. Expect to spend about $200 to $500 per year on routine vet check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative treatments. However, unexpected health issues can significantly increase these costs. Investing in pet insurance can reduce these costs (more on this later).

Supplies

To keep your new fluffball comfortable and entertained, you’ll need to purchase some supplies. A bed, harness, food and water dog bowls, and dog toys can all together cost anywhere between $100 to $400. You’ll then need to regularly replace toys and grooming supplies which can add about $50 to $100 to the cost per year.

Grooming

Shih Tzus need regular grooming to keep them looking like the stars of the show. Professional grooming sessions can cost $40 to $75 each, and you'll want to schedule these every 4 to 6 weeks. This adds up to an average annual grooming cost of $400 to $900. 

Training

Training is important to help your Shih Tzu become a well-behaved member of the family. Group dog training classes typically cost between $50 to $100 for a series of sessions. If you prefer private sessions, the cost can be higher, ranging from $30 to $100 per hour. 

Food

Feeding your Shih Tzu a high-quality diet is key to their health and well-being. Expect to spend around $20 to $50 per month on premium dog food, depending on the brand and the size of your Shih Tzu. Over a year, this can add up to $240 to $600.

Pet care

If you love to travel or work long hours, you’ll need to look into pet care services such as dog walkers, pet sitters, or boarding. The cost of these services can vary – you might spend $15 to $30 per walk for a dog walker or $30 to $50 per day for boarding.

A great alternative is a TrustedHousesitters membership. We connect you with pet sitters around the globe who won’t charge to care for your Shih Tzu. Our annual fee will save you on boarding costs and will mean your new pup can stay cozy at home while you’re away. Plus, members can also benefit from our 24/7 vet advice line.

Now we’ve covered how much a Shih Tzu costs to keep, let’s find out the monthly costs of owning one of these little tail-waggers and tips on reducing the costs.

How much do Shih Tzu cost per month?

On average, the monthly cost of owning a Shih Tzu can range from $200 to $650. This includes food, grooming, vet visits, and pet care. You’ll also have to factor in the added expenses of dog training and regularly replacing toys and supplies. 

Related article: Best small dog names for your petit pup

Reducing the cost of a Shih Tzu

Owning a Shih Tzu doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some tips to help you reduce the cost of caring for your new furry buddy:

Adopt your Shih Tzu

Adopting a Shih Tzu from a rescue organization or shelter is usually much cheaper than buying from a breeder, plus, with tens of thousands of pups waiting to find their forever home, you'll also be doing an amazing thing by helping out a pup in need. 

Wondering “how much do Shih Tzu puppies cost vs adopting one?” Adoption fees are usually between $100 to $500 – whereas you’ll pay at least double this if buying from a breeder. Plus, many adopted dogs come spayed or neutered and with initial vaccinations, saving you on these expenses.

Preventative care

Investing in regular vet check-ups and preventative treatments can help you avoid more expensive health issues down the line. This includes routine vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and dog dental care.

Pet insurance

Pet insurance can be a lifesaver if your Shih Tzu faces any serious health issues. While it’s an additional monthly cost, it can save you significant vet bills in the future.

Home training

Home dog training is a cost-effective alternative (but it does require time and patience). If you choose to homeschool your pup, take a look at our puppy training guide to get you started.

Groom your Shih Tzu at home

Learning to groom your Shih Tzu at home can save you hundreds of dollars each year - not to mention, it can be a fun activity that you and your pup to do together! With the right grooming supplies and some practice, you can keep your Shih Tzu looking their best without the frequent trips to a professional groomer. 

Thinking of becoming your pooch’s very own hairdresser? Take a look at our article on Shih Tzu hairdos so you never get a disappointed customer.

Get creative

Instead of spending money on expensive dog toys and dog treats, consider making your own. Old t-shirts, tennis balls, and even socks can be turned into fun toys for your Shih Tzu. 

Likewise, some of the (dog-safe) food you have in your cupboard can make up great treat recipes. Make sure to look at our articles on DIY dog toy ideas and homemade dog treat recipes.

Now you’re all clued up on how much Shih Tzus cost and are ready to adopt one of these tiny fluff monsters, consider reaching out to our many dog-loving house and pet sitters the next time you’re out of town. 

Still debating if a Shih Tzu is for you? Why not take a look at our article on Shih Tzu dog breed characteristics?