Shih Tzu Cost: What You'll Actually Pay in 2026
$1,150 to buy (breeders charge $500 to $1,800). Then $1,790/year to keep them healthy, fed, and insured. Over a 14-year lifespan, that's $27,160 total.
First Year: $3,890
The first year hits hardest. You're paying the purchase price plus one-time setup costs (spay/neuter, initial vaccines, crate, bed, bowls) on top of regular annual expenses.
Annual Cost: $1,790/Year
After year one, ongoing costs settle into a rhythm. Here's where the money goes each year.
That's $186/year more than the average small-sized breed ($1,604/yr). Grooming is the big driver here.
Health Issues & Insurance
Pet insurance for a Shih Tzu runs $24-$50/month. Worth knowing what you're insuring against.
Common Health Issues
Lifetime Cost: $27,160
Over 14 years, a Shih Tzu will cost you roughly $27,160. Here's the math.
Cost by Region
Where you live changes what you pay. West Coast and Northeast are 10-20% more expensive across the board. Midwest and Southeast save you real money.
| Region | Est. Annual | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| West | $2,038 | +$248 |
| Northeast | $2,028 | +$238 |
| Southwest | $1,722 | $-68 |
| Midwest | $1,635 | $-155 |
| Southeast | $1,649 | $-141 |
Other Small Breeds to Compare
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The numbers above are national averages. Costs vary by region, lifestyle, and where you buy. Use the calculator to dial in your specific situation.
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