Home Dog Adoption Shih Tzu Price: How Much Does a Shih Tzu Cost in 2024?

Shih Tzu Price: How Much Does a Shih Tzu Cost in 2024?

Last Updated: Jan 31, 2024

Are you an aspiring Shih Tzu owner? If you are, then you've come to the right place!

So, how much does a Shih Tzus cost nowadays? If you want the exact Shih Tzu price, it will be tough to estimate. Several factors can affect a breed's price.

Most people think the breed originated from China, but the Shih Tzu came from China's western neighbor, Tibet. But no matter where their origin is, it's clear that the dog breed has been a treasured companion since ancient times.

Shih Tzus are one of the most popular dogs in the world! They rank 20th on the American Kennel Club's Most Popular Dog Breeds of 2022 List.

Shih Tzus are amazing family companions. They are friendly, affectionate, and happy dogs.

They get along well with everyone! They like to be sweet and gentle with humans of any age or other pets.

Although they are popular breeds, many Shih tzus still end up in local shelters since some owners are challenged ang overwhelmed with owning a dog.

Caring for a dog is not an easy task. If you think it's all cuddles and sweetness, it's not. Consider many things if you plan to adopt a new dog.

If you plan to adopt a Shih Tzu, you should know that other than the Shih Tzu price, there are still other one-time costs and recurring maintenance costs.

Caring for a Shih Tzu requires grooming, exercise, and training. Being physically, mentally, and financially ready to adopt a pet would be best.

This blog will discuss everything you need about the Shih Tzu price. Below, we'll tackle the average cost of adopting a Shih Tzu from a breeder and shelter.

We'll also discuss other necessary expenses that you need to be ready for when adopting a Shih Tzu.

Let's dive in and discuss the Shih Tzu price without further ado.

Shih Tzu Price: How Much Is It?

On average, Shih Tzu puppies cost around $500 to $2,000 in the United States.

However, Shih Tzu prices will vary depending on many things, including where you live. It will also rely on the puppy's lineage, age, colors, and markings, plus the breeder's reputation.

If your heart and mind are ready to adopt a new dog, it's best to adopt from a reputable breeder or local shelter instead of a puppy mill.

Puppy mills are a big No-No since dogs here are neglected. They only care about the profit. They lack training, space, socialization, and proper health care.

On the other hand, reputable breeders are people who will make the dogs' health and well-being their top priority.

These breeders have their dogs checked by vets for possible health problems.

They will not use unhealthy dogs or dogs with behavioral problems for breeding to avoid spreading hereditary illnesses.

Factors that Affect the Price of a Shih Tzu

As we've discussed above, other factors can still affect the price of a Shih Tzu or any dog.

If you want to adopt a Shih Tzu, consider these things below. Adopting a dog can be financially challenging, especially if you don't do your research.

Now, let's discuss the different factors that affect the breed's price.

Age

First, the dog's age can affect the price of any dog.

How? Well, dogs tend to be cheaper as they age since most aspiring pet owners prefer dogs or puppies at a young age.

However, that's not always the case since some breeders say it will still depend on the adult dog.

For example, some adult dogs have significant success in the ring, which makes the dog's price slightly more expensive.

Location

The cost of a dog can also vary on the local supply and demand of the dog.

For instance, small-sized dogs like the Shih Tzus or Chihuahuas are more popular in urban areas due to being suitable for small spaces.

Smaller dogs like the Shih Tzus are ideal for you if you're a city girl or a city boy at heart.

Can you imagine living in a 1-bedroom apartment with a Great Dane or a Bernese Mountain Dog?

Large-sized dogs are best for people who live in the countryside or have a yard. These dogs need space to run around and burn off excess energies.

The supply and demand of certain dog breeds may also vary depending on the weather. For instance, certain breeds are better to have in cold climates than in hot weather.

Coat Color and Markings

The coat color, pattern, and markings of a Shih Tzu can also affect the price.

The breed has various coat colors, including solid colors, two or more colors, and brindle patterns.

Certain coat colors, such as blue or liver, can be more expensive. Also, puppies with unique markings or patterns may differ in price based on attractiveness and demand.

Training and Socialization

When you're getting an older Shih Tzu, there's a huge chance that it has already been trained in basic obedience or undergone other types of training.

These things can also affect the price of a Shih Tzu due to the added time and effort invested in the dog's education.

In addition, some breeders don't sell the puppies until they are done socializing and training them.

These reputable breeders are worth the expense since they can save money and time by no longer hiring a trainer.

It also helps you to have a better chance of having a well-rounded dog.

Medical Records

Sadly, dogs are prone to certain health problems.

For example, Shih Tzus are prone to hip dysplasia, cataracts, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, patellar luxation, allergies, and more.

Adopting from a reputable breeder can ensure that the dogs used for breeding are examined and tested for different diseases.

This way, the new puppies are guaranteed to be healthy and will not be susceptible to any hereditary health problems.

Bloodline

The bloodline can also impact a dog's price.

For instance, purebred dogs are usually more costly than mixed-breed or cross-breed dogs.

The Shih Tzu price might get even more costly if the breeder used purebred or show-quality dogs for breeding.

This goes the same for award-winning dogs. These dogs will for sure be more expensive than regular dogs.

Adopting a Shih Tzu From a Rescue

One of the best options is adopting a Shih Tzu from a rescue organization or animal shelter, especially if you're short on budget.

Adoption fees usually range around $50 to $500. These fees cover the cost of vaccines, spaying/neutering, or other veterinary care needed.

Adopting a Shih Tzu from a shelter is also a great way to help these animals get a second chance at a happy life. It's a noble and economical way of adopting a dog.

Adoption fees may also vary depending on the organization's or shelter's location and conditions.

For example, some shelters are cheaper than private-run or breed-specific rescue organizations.

Adopting a Shih Tzu From a Breeder

If you're financially secure, it's best to adopt from a reputable breeder. Responsible breeders prioritize the health and well-being of the dogs they produce.

Expect a higher price if you plan to adopt from a breeder. Shih Tzu typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the breeder.

Some breeders sell show-quality Shih Tzu puppies for $5,000.

The cost of these pups is higher since they underwent responsible breeding practices that ensure that all the Shih Tzu puppies are healthy, socialized, and have great genetic backgrounds.

Reputable breeders offer more healthcare and genetic testing to ensure the pups are healthy.

If you think of it, this might even save you money in the long run. Genetic illnesses. Such conditions as hip dysplasia, cataracts, and more will be costly.

Adopting a Shih Tzu From a Pet Stores and Puppy Mills

It's not advisable to buy dogs from puppy mills. Puppy mills are commercial breeders prioritizing profits over the dogs' health and well-being. They typically keep them in unsanitary environments.

Prices will depend on different pet stores, but they typically range from $500 to $1,500.

Again, avoiding purchasing Shih Tzu puppies from puppy mills is best. Never support these breeders and their inhumane business methods.

Shih Tzu One-Time Expenses

Aspiring pet owners should also consider other initial expenses that are listed below.

If you plan to bring a new pup home today, these items are needed. These essentials are great investments since they are just one-time costs (depending on how much you want to spoil your puppy) and can be reused in the long run.

Toys

Shih Tzu are affectionate and playful dogs. And if you plan to adopt a Shih Tzu today, stop by a pet store to pick up a new toy for Fido.

There are plenty of toys to choose from. For instance, you buy Fido a new dog you rope so you can play tug-of-war with him.

Dog toys are around $10 to $50 depending on the kind of toy, quality, and size.

Nowadays, chew toys can help with dog teething and their overall dental health, preventing them from destroying your clothes, shoes, or furniture.

Collars and Leashes

Another essential item on the list is collars and leashes. These items are needed to exercise your dog and bring him outside for walks or socialize with other dogs at the dog park.

You can choose different designs that fit best for your Shih Tzu. Try other colors and sizes and ensure that your pup is comfortable.

Collars and leashes generally cost around $15 to $40.

Bed

Of course, a dog needs a bed. Shih Tzus requires between 12 and 14 hours of rest, split between day naps and nighttime rest.

Regarding dog beds, the bigger the bed, the more costly it is. But luckily for you, Shih Tzus are small-sized dogs.

Also, we recommend picking a comfortable or orthopedic dog bed to prevent bone issues like hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia.

Depending on the quality and size, dog beds range from $25 to $70 or sometimes more.

RELATED: 5 Best Dog House-Beds

Brush and Nail Clippers

Even though Shih Tzus are moderate shedders, grooming is still essential.

Grooming is one of the most important aspects of caring for a dog. It's up there together with training and exercise.

There are plenty of grooming styles that you can choose from. You can even make your Shih Tzu a lion look-a-like.

You must know the correct dog brush to groom your Shih Tzu properly.

Choosing the right dog brush will make the grooming experience pleasant for both of you.

Brushes and other grooming tools usually cost an average of $25 or more.

Crates

Crate can also help pet owners, especially first-time pet owners. Crates can help with potty training, crate training, and obedience training.

The crate can also be your dog's safe space, and you can travel with your pup.

Ensure that the crate you choose is comfortable and safe for your pup.

Crates range from $50 to $500.

RELATED: 5 Types of Dog Crates

Dog License

A dog license is also required or mandated in most areas. It can also be useful for identifying lost dogs.

It's best always to have your dog's license when you go out. The cost of a dog license will depend on the city or state you live in, but it typically ranges from $10 to $20.

Initial Vet Visit

In the puppy's first month, visiting the vet is important, especially if the puppy is not from a reputable breeder.

Here are a few things you need to do during your initial vet visit:

Microchip

Microchipping is a helpful device for identifying lost dogs.

If Fido ever gets lost and gets found by a good samaritan, he can bring him to a vet to get Fido's microchipped scanned, where they can read their identification.

Microchip prices range from $40 to $60.

Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications

Deworming is also essential for Shih Tzus.

It's recommended for dogs to be given regular medication to avoid parasites, such as ticks, fleas, and heartworms. These parasites can cause huge damage to our dogs' health in the future.

Flea prevention remedies and other over-the-counter medicines usually cost around $50 to $250.

Initial Vaccine Shots

Shih Tzus will also need core vaccinations.

Ask your vet for shots for distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus (DHPP), and rabies.

These shots usually cost an average of $75 to $200.

Spay/Neuter

Plenty of pet owners still have different beliefs regarding spaying or neutering pets.

It's best to neuter or spay your Shih Tzu when it's six months old.

Spay/Neuter procedures cost between $50 and $400 on average.

Shih Tzu Recurring Maintenance Costs

Owning a dog is not an easy task. You have to be physically, mentally, and financially ready.

But the first year is usually the most costly time when it comes to owning a dog.

However, it doesn't mean that after the next years, it will be cost-free.

There are still recurring costs to maintain our dog's health.

Dog Food

The first recurring cost is a no-brainer, which is dog food.

Our dogs deserve top-quality dog food. It has to be healthy and nutritious.

Picking the best food for Beagles is important to optimize their health and cater to this specific breed's needs.

Even though high-quality dog food is more expensive, it will be worth it in the long run.

It's recommended that you feed your Shih Tzu at least three times a day when they are of adult age. They may require 4-6 meals a day if they are still a puppy.

Dog food ranges from around $50 a month for a bag of food, which can cost around $200 to $700 annually.

Training

Training should be done consistently. A well-trained pup can go a long way to helping the dog to be a well-rounded and well-behaved Shih Tzu.

Find a trainer that only uses positive reinforcement methods.

You can also try to enroll Fido in group training classes so he can socialize and make friends with other dogs.

Training generally costs between $40 to $250 per session.

Grooming

As discussed above, grooming is as important as exercise and training. Grooming can not only maintain our dog's

Like exercise and training, grooming is another essential aspect of owning a dog.

Grooming can maintain our Shih Tzu's gorgeous look and prevent several health problems.

Grooming packages usually start at $35, which includes bathing, blow-drying, nail trimming, brushing, and ear cleaning.

Healthcare

Again, Shih Tzus is prone to certain health problems, such as hip dysplasia, cataracts, hypothyroidism, and more.

That's why it's best to buy a puppy from a reputable breeder since they only use healthy dogs to breed.

On average, the national fee for a dog's routine check-up is $50 to $250.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the #1 most expensive dog?

The Tibetan Mastiff is known to be the most expensive dog in the world. In fact 2009, a red Tibetan Mastiff was sold for over $1.5 million.

The Tibetan Mastiff is known to be the number one most expensive dog in the world.

The average cost of the Tibetan Mastiff is around $3,000 to $5,000.

Are Shih Tzus loyal?

Yes, Shih Tzus is fiercely loyal to its family. These dogs are loving, faithful, and attentive.

Do Shih Tzu dogs bark a lot?

Shih Tzus are prone to barking. These dogs tend to bark at strangers and other dogs. They love to bark at visitors when they arrive, but they do this to get attention and pets.

Shih Tzu Price: Before You Go…

Are you an aspiring Shih Tzu owner? Well, why wouldn't you? These dogs are majestic, intelligent, and loveable.

But before you do that, it's best to research thoroughly, not just about their personality and temperament but also the amount of money you would have to shell out to take good care of them.

As you may know by now, adopting a dog can be costly.

You're not just buying a new pet; you'll also need to consider their food, bed, grooming needs, training, vet visits, and more.

It will also depend on where you adopt them— from Craigslist, Rescue Centers, or Breeders.

But our number one recommendation would always be to find a reputable breeder.

Reputable breeders ensure that you're getting a healthy puppy.

They can present you with medical records of the puppy and the puppy's parents used for breeding.

In the hands of these breeders, puppies are regularly checked by vets and are given proper training, socialization, and high-quality dog foods.

To sum it up, owning a dog is not easy and doesn't come cheap.

However, it is certainly rewarding. And with proper care, these dogs can live a long and happy life.

Let us know in the comments section how much you were able to get your Shih Tzu puppy for!