Shih Tzu Characteristics?
Life expectancy: 10 – 16 years
Adult weight: 9 – 16 lbs.
Adult height: 8 – 11 in.
Origin – China
A small-toy dog that originated in ancient China, the Shih Tzu is one of the most common and popular Chinese dog breeds worldwide. Considered noble by the Chinese, Shih Tzus can be seen in Chinese scriptures which also have mentions of Buddha. There is a famous story about them that goes like this; Buddha owned a small Shih Tzu, and one day when out on his travels, robbers threatened to rob and murder him. To protect his owner, the small dog transformed into a humongous lion and scared them away! This is where they get the name ‘lion dog’ which translates to Shih Tzu.
Shih Tzu are often confused for Lhasa Apso, Maltese, or other small fluffy breeds that share a similar physique. It’s an easy mistake to make, especially since some of these breeds are of similar origin.
Shih Tzu don't require much exercise to feel satisfied and are often happy to spend day after day lounging on family cough. Their long silky coats come in a variety of colors and are often blowdryed into floor-length styles. Some Shih Tzu owners prefer to give their pet a 'puppy' or 'teddy bear' cut to avoid the maintenance that comes with a long coat.
What is the price of a Shih Tzu?
Compared to other dog breeds, the Shih Tzu’s is a dog of few needs. We will break down the price by categorizing it by initial buying/adoption costs, vaccinations, diets, healthcare, and grooming.
Adoption: $100 – $300
The price of a Shih Tzu ranges depending on the pet's age, coat color, and the breeder's reputation. Breeders tend to charge between $500 - $1800. Some purebred, show-quality Shih Tzus can cost $5000. A teacup or miniature Shih Tzu can generally cost between $1500-$2000.
Shih Tzu mixes are often seen as designer dogs and are often more expensive than other mixed breeds. For example, a Shih Tzu and Pomeranian mix can cost about $800, while a Maltese Shih Tzu mix could be around $800-$1000. A cross between a Bichon Frise and a Shih Tzu – Shichon can cost more at around $1200-$1500.
You can get a Shih Tzu for $100-$300 if you choose to adopt from a rescue shelter. There are plenty of shelters in the US where you can find your lion dog. Some shelters even specialize in Shih Tzus. Most rescue shelters will typically provide care to the dogs before adoption, including up-to-date vaccinations and spaying or neutering. The adoption fee usually covers the costs of these services.
Monthly costs for a Shih Tzu puppy
Diets: $20-$30
One advantage of having a small dog is that they eat a lot less and larger or giant breeds. Shih Tzu generally requires 6-7 lbs of dog food per month. Pet parents can find good quality kibble available at dollar-per-pound rates, and even premium dog food can be purchased monthly for about $20. It may be a good idea to budget for treats too!
Grooming: $60-$80
These dogs will need proper grooming to help maintain their long coats. It is recommended that you take your Shih Tzu to a professional groomer 6-8 times a year. Each of these visits could cost around $50-$70. If you wish to groom your dog at home, a grooming kit, including brushes, a dental kit, nail clippers, and shampoo, can cost you around $60-$80.
Medical Costs: $700-$1200
During the first year, you should take your Shih Tzu to the vet about 3-4 times. Vet fees can range from $100 to $300 for annual wellness exams, blood tests, vaccines and other recommended preventive care treatments. If additional tests are needed, they may cost between $300-$400.
Like all breeds, Shih Tzus are at risk for developing certain health conditions over their lifetime. Health conditions common in Shih Tzu include brachycephalic syndrome, dry eyes, and collapsing trachea. Treatment costs for these conditions are estimated to be between:
Brachycephalic Syndrome - $500-$2000
Eye Problems - $300-$1500
Collapsing Trachea - $2500-$3000
One-time costs for a Shih Tzu
Initial Costs: $500-$600
As you prepare to bring your new pet home, it's important to purchase a few supplies. These items can include a bed, crate, collar, leash, doggy bags and scooper, food and water bowls, training pads, toys, and chew toys. These could cost you $500-$600.
Microchipping: $50-$70
90% of the lost pets in the U.S. are not found but 70-80% of microchipped pets find their way back home. The cost can vary from state to state, but the average cost to microchip a pet is about $50. Some states require a dog license, which can add $10-$20 to your cost.
Vaccinations: $280-$300
There are certain core vaccinations that dogs need. These include distemper, parvovirus, Adenovirus, type 1, Adenovirus, type 2, and rabies. All of which could cost $150-$200.
Vets sometimes recommend certain non-core vaccinations as well, depending on the pet's lifestyle. Non-core vaccinations include vaccines for parainfluenza, Lyme disease, and leptospirosis. The cost of these vaccines is estimated to be $130-$150.
Miscellaneous $200-$250
There could be times throughout the life of your pet when you need a dog sitter or dog walker to help care for your pet when you're busy or away from home, other times you may want to take your dog traveling with you. It’s better to set aside a small amount of money each year for these miscellaneous expenses.
Lifetime Shih Tzu Cost
Keeping in mind the cost of purchasing your pet, initial supplies, monthly food and maintenance costs, and one-time expenses, the lifetime cost of caring for a Shih Tzu is estimated to be between $15,000-$17,000. This estimate does not include the cost of emergency care, should your pet ever need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Shih Tzus so expensive?
Shih Tzus purchased from breeders come at a higher cost because of the extensive health checks, breeding practices, and medical care given to the puppies born under their care.
Is a Shih Tzu a good dog to have?
There are multiple reasons Shih Tzus make great pets. Their social, affectionate, and playful natures make them a great fit for individuals or families with children. Their small size makes them ideal for apartment living. Shih Tzus can be a great fit for various potential pet owners.
What color Shih Tzu is rare?
Blue-coated Shih Tzus are exceptionally rare. There are very few breeders who produce Shih Tzu with this coat color.
How can Spot Pet Insurance help?
Spot accident & illness pet insurance plans offer various coverages from microchip implantation to surgeries and prescription food and supplements prescribed to treat your pet’s unexpected accidents and illnesses. (Prescription food and supplements used for general health or weight maintenance are not covered). For an extra cost, Spot dog insurance plans offer preventive care coverage add-ons to help cover the costs of certain routine vaccinations, annual wellness exams, and other preventive care treatments. You can view the add-on preventive care coverage options here. Get in touch with us to know more!
Conclusion
Shih Tzu, the lion dog, and the dog of Buddhist Monasteries are beautiful and fun-loving companions. This dog will keep the house lively and playful and love lounging and cuddling with you. The lifetime costs of owning one will feel worth it by seeing their cute faces every day! And anyways, Spot plans can cover up to 90% of your eligible vet bills for covered conditions. So go ahead and get your little lion home!
Happy Parenting to you and Lots of Love to your Pup!
Audrey Halfen: Beta fish whisperer - whopping 9 months and counting! Once had a dog named Max, who I assertively claim is the cutest dog ever. Ready to throw down in a cute-off, if necessary.
