If you're planning to buy a Shih Tzu in the USA, one of the first questions is: How much does a Shih Tzu cost?
The answer depends on factors like breeder quality, location, and whether you adopt or buy. Let’s break it down in a simple way.
💰 Average Cost of a Shih Tzu in the USA
In the United States, a Shih Tzu puppy typically costs:
- $800 – $3,000 from a breeder
- Around $1,200 on average
- Some high-quality or show dogs can cost $3,000+
👉 Budget option:
- Adoption: $100 – $500
📊 Price Breakdown by Type
| Type of Shih Tzu | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Pet-quality puppy | $500 – $1,000 |
| Standard breeder puppy | $800 – $3,000 |
| Show-quality / champion bloodline | $1,000 – $3,000+ |
| Adoption / rescue | $100 – $500 |
📍 Price by Location in the USA
Prices can change depending on where you live:
- Northeast: $1,200 – $3,000+
- West Coast: $1,100 – $2,800
- Midwest: $900 – $2,200
- Southeast: $1,000 – $2,500
👉 Areas with fewer breeders usually have higher prices.
🧾 First-Year Cost (Important!)
Buying the puppy is just the beginning.
👉 First-year total cost:
- $3,900 – $5,600
Includes:
- Vaccinations
- Food
- Grooming
- Supplies
🔄 Yearly Maintenance Cost
Owning a Shih Tzu costs around:
- $2,000+ per year
Breakdown:
- Food: ~$400/year
- Vet care: ~$450/year
- Grooming: ~$500/year
- Insurance & extras
⚠️ Factors That Affect Price
The price of a Shih Tzu depends on:
- 🧬 Bloodline & pedigree (champion parents = expensive)
- 🏆 Breeder reputation
- 📍 Location
- 🎨 Coat color & size
- 🐶 Age (puppies cost more)
💡 Tips to Save Money
- Consider adopting instead of buying
- Avoid extremely cheap puppies (possible scams)
- Choose a reputable breeder
- Compare multiple breeders before buying
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a Shih Tzu expensive in the USA?
Yes, they can be moderately expensive, especially from reputable breeders.
Why are some Shih Tzus so expensive?
High prices are usually due to pedigree, breeder quality, and health testing.
Is it cheaper to adopt a Shih Tzu?
Yes, adoption is much cheaper and often includes basic medical care.
How much does a Shih Tzu cost per month?
Around $150–$200 per month depending on care and grooming.
📝 Conclusion
A Shih Tzu in the USA typically costs between $800 and $3,000, but the real cost includes long-term care.
👉 If you’re on a budget, adoption is the best option.
👉 If you want a high-quality puppy, expect to pay more.
In the end, a Shih Tzu is not just a purchase—it’s a long-term commitment.