Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Shih Tzu Cost Comparison 2026
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel costs $1,880/yr vs $1,790/yr for Shih Tzu. Over a lifetime: $24,180 vs $27,160. Here's where the money goes.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
$24,180
lifetime (11 yrs)
Lifetime Difference
$2,980
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel costs less
Shih Tzu
$27,160
lifetime (14 yrs)
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Shih Tzu | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,200–$3,500 | $500–$1,800 | Shih Tzu |
| Annual Food | $300 | $280 | Shih Tzu |
| Routine Vet Care | $600 | $450 | Shih Tzu |
| Grooming | $180 | $480 | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel |
| Pet Insurance | $40–$80/mo | $24–$50/mo | Shih Tzu |
| Supplies & Training | $260 | $240 | Shih Tzu |
| Total Annual Cost | $1,880 | $1,790 | Shih Tzu |
| Lifetime Cost | $24,180 | $27,160 | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel |
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cost Profile
- Size
- small
- Lifespan
- 11 years
- Purchase Price
- $1,200–$3,500
- Annual Cost
- $1,880/yr
- Lifetime Total
- $24,180
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 — $90/yr difference. Your choice comes down to lifespan, grooming needs, and health risk, not ongoing budget impact.
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