Cost of Owning a Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are gentle, adaptable, and perfect city companions. Their small size keeps food and medication costs low, but their flowing coats require regular professional grooming. Here is the full cost picture.
Estimated First Year Cost
$2,280–$4,420
Monthly Ongoing Cost
$140–$270
Purchase Price
$1,000-$3,000
About the purchase price: AKC-registered from health-tested parents (eyes, knees, hips). Reputable breeders will test for brachycephalic issues and eye conditions.
Monthly Costs
| Category | Low Est. | High Est. | |
|---|---|---|---|
Food Small breed - approximately 0.5-1 cup of quality small-breed kibble daily | $20 | $40 | |
Vet Routine Annual exam, vaccines, dental care - dental disease is very common in small breeds | $25 | $45 | |
Grooming Long double coat requires professional grooming every 6-8 weeks ($70-$100 per session) | $60 | $110 | |
Treats & Toys Small treats for training, soft toys appropriate for small dogs | $10 | $25 | |
Pet Insurance Recommended - eye conditions, patellar luxation, and kidney disease are Shih Tzu concerns | $25 | $50 | |
| Monthly Total | $140 | $270 | |
One-Time Setup Costs
| Item | Low Est. | High Est. |
|---|---|---|
| Crate (small) | $30 | $70 |
| Dog Bed | $25 | $60 |
| Collar, Harness & Leash | $20 | $50 |
| Spay / Neuter | $200 | $400 |
| Puppy Classes | $150 | $250 |
| Slicker Brush, Comb, Eye Wipes | $25 | $50 |
| Initial Vet Visit & Vaccines | $150 | $300 |
| One-Time Total | $600 | $1,180 |
Average Lifespan: 10-18 years
Based on typical monthly costs and lifespan, expect to spend:
$14,000-$30,000
over the lifetime of your Shih Tzu
* Estimate includes food, routine vet care, grooming, insurance, and supplies. Does not include purchase price or major health events.
Save on vet bills with pet insurance
Unexpected vet bills are the biggest wildcard in Shih Tzu ownership. Pet insurance can cap your out-of-pocket costs and give you peace of mind.
Get Insurance Quotes →Tips to Reduce Your Shih Tzu Costs
✓Buy pet insurance as a puppy — premiums are lower and no pre-existing conditions are excluded.
✓Buy food in bulk or subscribe-and-save — save 10–20% on your biggest monthly expense.
✓Learn basic grooming at home — even one home trim per quarter between professional visits saves money.
✓Stay current on preventive care — annual vaccines and parasite prevention prevent far more expensive conditions.
✓Consider adopting an adult dog — adoption fees ($100–$400) are far lower than breeder prices.
✓Set up a dedicated pet health savings account — $50–$100/month builds a buffer for unexpected bills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Shih Tzus expensive to groom?
Grooming is the biggest ongoing cost for Shih Tzu owners. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks costs $70-$100 per session - approximately $525-$900 per year. Many owners keep their Shih Tzu in a short "puppy cut" to reduce both grooming frequency and brushing time at home.
How long do Shih Tzus live?
Shih Tzus are a long-lived breed with an average lifespan of 10-18 years. Some individuals live 20+ years with good care. This long lifespan makes total lifetime costs higher despite low monthly expenses.
What health issues do Shih Tzus have?
Common Shih Tzu health issues include eye conditions (dry eye, corneal ulcers - ongoing management $30-$80/month), patellar luxation (knee slipping - surgery $1,500-$3,000 per knee if needed), respiratory issues due to their flat face, dental disease, and kidney disease in older dogs.
What is the monthly cost of owning a Shih Tzu?
Budget $140-$230 per month for a healthy Shih Tzu, with grooming being the dominant variable cost. Dental cleanings ($300-$700 annually) and eye care can add to vet costs beyond routine prevention.
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