How much does a Shih Tzu cost per year?
Expect to spend around $1,560 per year on a Shih Tzu — covering food, routine vet care, grooming, insurance, and supplies. Over a typical 14-year lifespan, that totals roughly $21,840 (about $130/month), not counting the purchase price of $500–1,500.
Yearly cost breakdown
Based on our standard Small dog cost model (small size class):
| Category | Annual estimate |
|---|---|
| Food | $360 |
| Routine vet | $300 |
| Grooming | $240 |
| Pet insurance | $480 |
| Toys, treats & supplies | $180 |
Breed-specific costs to know
Grooming
HIGH grooming — daily brushing or short clip; professional every 6–8 weeks.
Health
Eye issues (dry eye, ulcers); breathing issues in some lines.
Purchase price
Expect $500–1,500 from a reputable breeder. Adoption is $50–$300 and often includes spay/neuter and vaccines — see our adoption vs breeder calculator.
Is a Shih Tzu expensive to own?
Compared to the average dog, the Shih Tzu sits in the Small cost bracket. The biggest variables are health (see above) and grooming. Run your own numbers with our dog cost calculator — adjust the lifespan and acquisition cost to match your situation.
Estimates based on ASPCA cost data and breed-specific veterinary guidance. Your costs will vary by location.