Monthly Cost Breakdown
| Category |
Monthly Range |
Annual (est.) |
Notes |
| Vet Care |
$90–$180 |
$1,620 |
|
| Pet Insurance |
$35–$60 |
$576 |
|
| Food |
$25–$40 |
$396 |
|
| Grooming |
$60–$100 |
$960 |
|
| Gear & Supplies |
$14 |
$168 |
amortized |
| Training |
$18 |
$216 |
amortized |
| Boarding / Daycare |
$45 |
$540 |
amortized |
| Supplements |
$12 |
$144 |
|
| Tech (GPS, cameras) |
$10 |
$120 |
|
| Toys & Enrichment |
$12 |
$144 |
|
| End-of-Life Reserve |
$20 |
$240 |
reserved monthly |
| Total |
$341–$511/mo |
$4,092–$6,132/yr |
all categories |
Data sourced from ASPCA, AVMA, and pet insurance industry research. Ranges reflect geographic and care-quality variation.
What to Know Before You Budget
Shih Tzus are generally healthy but require significant grooming investment. Their brachycephalic (flat) faces can cause mild breathing issues in hot weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Shih Tzu cost per month?
A Shih Tzu costs between $341 and $511 per month on average, covering vet care, pet insurance, food, grooming, boarding, and other essentials. Annual costs range from $4,092 to $6,132.
What is the lifetime cost of a Shih Tzu?
Over a typical lifespan of 10–16 years, a Shih Tzu costs between $40,920 and $98,112 total.
Is a Shih Tzu expensive to own?
Shih Tzus are moderately priced to own. At $341–$511/month, they fall within the average range for small dogs. Shih Tzus are generally healthy but require significant grooming investment. Their brachycephalic (flat) faces can cause mild breathing issues in hot weather.