How Much Does a Shih Tzu Puppy Cost?

If you are in search of a small breed that can live in an apartment, does not require too much exercise daily, and turns out as an adorable and loyal pet for his family, then a Shih Tzu is an ideal pick. But, irrespective of being from a group of small dog breeds like Shipoo or Poodle, owning a Shih Tzu comes with some added expenses. Although a puppy would cost around $1200, there are a few initial costs for every puppy and equipment required, along with the monthly recurring expenses.

Although the real costs vary significantly depending on the must-have items, whether you opt for crate training or pet insurance, our guide today will help you prepare a budget before becoming an owner of this loving and happy little dog.

One-Time Costs to Bring Home a Shih Tzu

A Shih Tzu puppy is a prominent breed, indicating that there are several breeders around the country. A few of the breeders are offering pet-grade Shih Tzus that might lack the identical championship lineage as the show or exhibition Shih Tzu; however, they have started socializing and becoming the best pets. The pet Shih Tzus would often cost less compared to their medal-winning parents. The breed is even found across rescues and shelters adopting a dog will cost less compared to buying one from the breeders; however, there are costs, and you have to ensure to gain a bit of idea about their temperament and lineage. So if you are wondering how much does a Shih Tzu puppy cost, stay tuned because below we have explained all the costs that can be incurred while bringing home a Shih Tzu.

Free

Generally, free dogs arrive from family and friends, acquaintances, or neighbors whom you know. On the other hand, you can even find a Shih Tzu that needs a new home. The owner does not wish to receive any payment for the dog but ensures that their canine companion gets a good home.

Adoption ($200–$500)

The costs for adoption vary based on the location, policy of the shelter, and even the adaptability and age of the dog. Puppies would generally cost more compared to adult dogs, with a couple of shelters offering their senior dogs a free space in the center since fewer people wish to adopt senior pets. During adoption, it becomes tougher to get the dog's background; however, you have to ensure that you are meeting the dog a few times before adding them to your family so that you get an idea of their personality and get acquainted with them.

Breeder ($200–$2,500)

The costs associated with the breeders vary greatly and are generally based on the background of the parents of the pup. If you wish to show or compete with your Shih Tzu, then you need a puppy with a strong lineage, and these costs more compared to those that are bred and sold as pets. Here, always ensure to research and speak to the breeders and meet the mother while determining what you pay for. Also, ensure to microchip the dog when you take its delivery; however, it will be neutered or spayed. Would you even get a couple of months of free insurance?

Initial Setup and Supplies ($500–$1,000)

Determine the amount you are paying for the initial supplies, as it depends on whether you have been a dog owner previously and retained any of the things or whether you are a dog owner still at this moment. It might even rely on your recent living conditions as you may have to get your yard turned dog-free for instance. You will require stuff such as beds and bowls, although these last for several years before any replacement is made, and you will require sufficient food that would last for about an initial couple of weeks. You have to have the brushes, toys, and nail clippers as you can opt whether you have to pay for the insurance premium for about a year or make monthly payments throughout the year.

Shih Tzu Maintenance Cost ($100–$300 per month)

The monthly costs will include the medication and food, along with pet insurance if you opt for it. Since the coat of a Shih Tzu is tough to manage, you might have to budget for routine grooming sessions unless you are compatible with clippers and a brush. The dog training program is yet another monthly cost for both you and your dog.

Health Care ($50–$300 per month)

The healthcare costs vary from one month to the other. For several months, you would become hopeful about paying a cent under the healthcare costs. For a couple of months, you need to pay for preventive care treatments like deworming and fleas. Whenever your dog is developing any illness or gets involved in an accident, then the costs would rise. You can keep $50 or more every month for budgeting, although pet insurance can dramatically aid you in the accurate management of costs.

Food ($20–$50 per month)

Shih Tzus are compact-sized dogs, indicating that their appetite is small, so the costs related to food are less for this breed. However, you might be required to purchase premium-grade food meeting the dietary and nutritional needs of the dog while feeding them any treats, specifically if you are using treats as training. These will specifically cost you money and you can add it to your monthly budget too.

Grooming ($5–$50 per month)

You can groom your Shih Tzu on your own if you are handy with a pair of nail trimmers, clippers, a dog brush, and a toothbrush; however, several of them would benefit from occasional visitations to the professional groomer. The costs for grooming vary. However, you can still locate a few reasonable rates across the areas.

Medications and Vet Visits ($30–$75)

Can you tell me the amount you can pay for vet visits and medications? It specifically relies on the dog's general health and well-being, although there are a few costs that you can overlook, like the costs related to the annual jabs. Preventative or wellness care plans help you save a bit of your hard-earned money here.

Pet Insurance ($15–$50 per month)

Not every pet parent chooses to opt for pet insurance; however, it becomes effective if your dog falls ill or gets involved in an accident, as you would face a huge veterinary bill. If you fall into such situations and you have the right pet insurance, then you can make easier treatment decisions on whatever you feel is best for your dog, and you need not worry regarding the way it would impact the bank balance.

Environment Maintenance ($10–$50 per month)

Since the dogs would never live under a cabinet, do not need bedding, and never require litter top-ups, there are no huge environmental maintenance costs to think about. You might require to purchase the crate liners as if you are using a crate, and then you would even require the poop bags.

Entertainment ($10–$50 per month)

Although Shih Tzus are compact and may not require a lot of exercise, they require regular walks as they gain physical and mental stimulation from agility classes and other canine sports. The entertainment costs include the occasional new toy, but they also include the costs for the agility classes and more.

Total Monthly Cost of Owning a Shih Tzu ($100–$300 per month)

Becoming the owner of a Shih Tzu is the most enjoyable and rewarding experience to gain; however, you have to ensure that you are meeting the requirements of the dog, considering entertainment, food, and numerous other factors.

Additional Costs to Consider

There are often unexpected costs associated with the ownership of a Shih Tzu, along with the occasional costs that you may not have to pay each month or every year. For instance, if you are going away and you do not have a friend or family member who will take care of your dog, you might have to pay for a pet sitter or boarding. The best idea is with a dog walking service if you fail to walk your dog daily.

Conclusion

Shih Tzus are the popular black or white dog breed of low maintenance as their coat would need some thorough grooming. They never eat much nor require heavy exercise. However, like other breeds, they do have a few specific requirements that you should meet. So, if you opt to own this breed, then Up and Away Pups brings you the ideal Teacup Shih Tzu puppies for sale. Their compact sizes indicate that it has low costs for constant care compared to the other breeds; however, you would still expect to pay around $100 on average.

FAQs

Why is a Shih Tzu So Expensive?

The costs depend on factors like the pedigree and the reputation of the breeders. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you purchase through a reputable breeder.

How Much is the Cheapest Shih Tzu?

You can expect to pay between $500 and $1500 for a Shih Tzu puppy. However, the costs might rise due to the champion bloodline or the show quality of the puppies.

How Much is a Pure Shih Tzu?

The price range for the Shih Tzu dogs is anywhere around $500 to $1800 if you are purchasing from any breeder. A few purebred or show-quality Shih Tzus bought from reputable breeders would cost about $5000, whereas a Miniature or a Teacup Shih Tzu would cost around $1500 to $2000.