Border Collie vs Shih Tzu Cost Comparison 2026
Border Collie costs $1,810/yr vs $1,790/yr for Shih Tzu. Over a lifetime: $27,740 vs $27,160. Here's where the money goes.
Border Collie
$27,740
lifetime (14 yrs)
Lifetime Difference
$580
Shih Tzu costs less
Shih Tzu
$27,160
lifetime (14 yrs)
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Border Collie | Shih Tzu | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $700–$2,000 | $500–$1,800 | Shih Tzu |
| Annual Food | $480 | $280 | Shih Tzu |
| Routine Vet Care | $450 | $450 | Border Collie |
| Grooming | $100 | $480 | Border Collie |
| Pet Insurance | $28–$52/mo | $24–$50/mo | Shih Tzu |
| Supplies & Training | $400 | $240 | Shih Tzu |
| Total Annual Cost | $1,810 | $1,790 | Shih Tzu |
| Lifetime Cost | $27,740 | $27,160 | Shih Tzu |
Border Collie Cost Profile
- Size
- medium
- Lifespan
- 14 years
- Purchase Price
- $700–$2,000
- Annual Cost
- $1,810/yr
- Lifetime Total
- $27,740
Shih Tzu Cost Profile
- Size
- small
- Lifespan
- 14 years
- Purchase Price
- $500–$1,800
- Annual Cost
- $1,790/yr
- Lifetime Total
- $27,160
Bottom Line
Annual costs are nearly identical — $20/yr difference. Your choice comes down to lifespan, grooming needs, and health risk, not ongoing budget impact.