How Much Does a Shih Tzu Cost?
A transparent, honest breakdown of Shih Tzu puppy prices, what drives the cost, lifetime ownership expenses, and why the source of your puppy matters.
How Puppy Prices Vary by Source
Purchase prices and included services vary among sellers and regions. Compare written health records, registration information, care practices, and contract terms.
Reputable AKC Breeder
Varies- AKC registered, health-tested parent dogs
- 2-year genetic health guarantee
- Full vet clearance and vaccination records
- Properly socialized in a home environment
- Lifetime breeder support
- Transparent about health history and parent dogs
Best long-term value. Higher upfront cost reflects the genuine investment in producing a healthy, well-tempered dog.
Pet Stores
Varies- Often sourced from commercial puppy mills
- May have AKC paperwork but little health testing behind it
- Little to no meaningful health guarantee
- Limited or no socialization in a home environment
- No ongoing breeder support
- Higher risk of genetic health issues
Health outcomes vary. Ask about the puppy’s health history, the care it received, and the written terms provided by the seller.
Backyard Breeders
Varies- May or may not be AKC registered
- Little to no health testing of parent dogs
- Minimal veterinary care before going home
- Usually no health guarantee
- No support after the sale
- Variable quality — some are fine, others are problematic
Health and behavior vary among individual dogs. Ask what records and care information the seller can provide.
Puppy Mills / Online Brokers
Varies- Bred in large-scale commercial facilities with little individual care
- Mothers often kept in poor conditions
- Puppies frequently have parasites, infections, and genetic problems
- Sold through websites, classified ads, or pet stores
- No health guarantee or misleading guarantee terms
- Behavioral problems common due to lack of socialization
A low purchase price alone does not establish a puppy’s health, care history, or long-term costs. Review available records and written terms before deciding.
What's Included in Our Puppy Price
The current puppy listings show each puppy’s price and included items. Contact us to confirm the selected puppy’s availability, total, and reservation terms before sending a deposit.
AKC Registration
Full AKC registration papers for a purebred Shih Tzu, with both parents registered
2-Year Health Guarantee
Comprehensive genetic health guarantee covering life-threatening hereditary conditions
Veterinary Health Certificate
Full nose-to-tail exam by a licensed vet before going home
First Vaccinations
Age-appropriate DHPP combination vaccine and complete de-worming schedule
Puppy Starter Package
Food sample, scented blanket, and written care instructions
Parent Dog Pedigree
Documentation of your puppy's lineage and parents' health history
15+ Years of Expertise
The knowledge, experience, and ongoing support of dedicated, passionate breeders
Lifetime Breeder Support
We're always available to answer questions throughout your dog's life
What Affects the Price Within a Reputable Breeder's Range?
Puppy prices can vary by breeder and litter. For Royal Shih Tzu’s current listings, review the individual puppy details and confirm the price and included items before reserving.
Color & Markings
Rare colors like solid black, liver, or blue may be priced higher due to their scarcity. Popular colors like gold-and-white may be more readily available.
Gender
In some litters, males and females are priced the same. In others, females may be slightly higher due to demand. This varies by breeder.
Lineage / Pedigree
Puppies from champion bloodlines — parents or grandparents who have earned AKC titles in conformation shows — typically command a premium. Champion-line dogs represent the top of what the breed can look and perform like.
Show vs. Pet Quality
A 'show quality' puppy is one that conforms closely enough to the AKC standard to be competitive in dog shows. 'Pet quality' puppies may have minor features (a slightly wide blaze, a bite slightly off standard) that don't affect health or temperament but would not score as well in competition. Pet quality puppies are typically priced lower.
Current Demand & Availability
Like anything, supply and demand influences pricing. When a particular color or litter is highly sought after, prices may reflect that.
Lifetime Cost of Owning a Shih Tzu
The purchase price is a one-time cost. Understanding the ongoing annual expenses helps you budget realistically and ensures your dog gets the care they deserve.
| Expense | Low Estimate | High Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| High-quality dog food | Varies by location and individual needs | Varies by location and individual needs |
| Professional grooming (every 6–8 wks) | Varies by location and individual needs | Varies by location and individual needs |
| Routine veterinary care | Varies by location and individual needs | Varies by location and individual needs |
| Heartworm & flea/tick prevention | Varies by location and individual needs | Varies by location and individual needs |
| Dental cleanings (every 1–2 years) | Varies by location and individual needs | Varies by location and individual needs |
| Toys, treats & accessories | Varies by location and individual needs | Varies by location and individual needs |
| Pet insurance (optional) | Varies by location and individual needs | Varies by location and individual needs |
| Boarding / pet sitting | Varies by location and individual needs | Varies by location and individual needs |
| Annual Total (estimated) | Varies by location and individual needs | Varies by location and individual needs |
Lifetime costs depend on the dog’s needs, local prices, and the care choices a family makes. Build a budget from current quotes for food, grooming, veterinary care, and other expected services.
Unexpected veterinary expenses vary widely by condition, location, and treatment. Consider how you would handle unplanned care and discuss insurance or savings options with your veterinarian.
A Note on Grooming Costs
Grooming costs vary by location, coat length, and the services requested. Contact local groomers for current quotes and see our grooming guide for routine care information.
Many Shih Tzu owners reduce grooming costs by keeping their dog in a short "puppy cut" or "teddy bear cut" that is easy to maintain. Alternatively, some owners learn to do basic grooming at home with professional electric clippers and shears, reducing the frequency of professional visits significantly.
Regardless of grooming style, daily brushing is recommended to prevent painful matting. Eyes should be kept clean to prevent tear staining. This daily maintenance is easy and quick once you establish a routine.
Why Reputable Breeders Are Worth the Investment
A lower purchase price does not establish the quality of a puppy’s care or predict future veterinary costs. Review available records, written terms, and the breeder’s practices before deciding.
Breeder practices differ. Ask what veterinary care, health-screening records, socialization, registration, and written support are available, and review the details before making a decision.
At Royal Shih Tzu Puppies, we have been doing this for over 15 years. We know our dogs, we know their health histories, and we are invested in the wellbeing of every puppy we produce long after they leave our home. That's not something you can put a price on.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Shih Tzu puppy cost?
Royal Shih Tzu’s current puppy prices are shown on the Available Puppies page. Contact us to confirm the selected puppy’s price and reservation terms before paying. Prices and inclusions vary among breeders, so compare written health, registration, and care details as well as the amount.
Why are reputable breeder puppies more expensive?
documented veterinary care, available parent health-screening records, written terms, and post-purchase support
What is the annual cost of owning a Shih Tzu?
Annual ownership costs vary by location, food, grooming needs, veterinary care, insurance, and the individual dog. Request current local estimates for the services you expect to use.
How much does Shih Tzu grooming cost?
Grooming costs vary by location, coat length, and the services requested. Contact local groomers for current quotes and see our grooming guide for routine care information.
Is it cheaper to buy from a puppy mill?
The purchase price alone cannot predict future health or care costs. Ask for records, written terms, and details about the puppy’s source.
Do Shih Tzus have expensive health problems?
Well-bred Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs. Watch for eye issues, dental crowding (common in small-mouthed breeds), and brachycephalic airway concerns in heavily-flat-faced lines. Regular vet visits and dental cleanings are the most consistent ongoing health costs.
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