Shih Tzu at a glance
| Adult weight | 4 to 7kg |
|---|---|
| Size | Small |
| Typical lifespan | About 13 years |
| Grooming | A groomer about every 6 weeks |
| Health | Some known breed problems |
What a Shih Tzu costs
| First yearIncluding a £1,000 puppy, kit, vaccinations, spaying and training | £3,307 |
|---|---|
| Each year after | £1,522 |
| A month, after year one | £127 |
| Over about 13 years | £21,571 |
| With a dog sitter 3 days a weekAt £90 a week | +£4,680 a year |
These assume a girl puppy, about £16 a month of mid-range dry food for a 5.5kg adult, regular grooming, a week of kennels a year and no daycare. The calculator above shows every line.
Health problems to know about
Shih Tzus are known to be prone to:
- Breathing problems
- Eye problems
- Dental disease
Ask the breeder for health test results for both parents. Not every Shih Tzu will have these problems, but they’re why insurance matters: a long-term condition can cost hundreds or thousands of pounds a year.
Insuring a Shih Tzu?
Look for lifetime cover with at least £5,000 a year for vet fees, and check what it says about breathing problems.
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Next steps
- Check which insurance a Shih Tzu needs
- See how big your Shih Tzu puppy will get
- Work out how much to feed a Shih Tzu puppy
- Check a Shih Tzu breeder before you pay a deposit
Questions
How much does a Shih Tzu cost a month?
About £127 a month after the first year, for insurance, food, flea treatment, grooming, boosters and small vet bills. Daycare or a dog sitter is extra.
How much does a Shih Tzu cost in the first year?
About £3,307, including a £1,000 puppy price, kit, vaccinations, spaying, training, insurance and food. Breeders’ prices vary a lot, so put in yours.
How much is insurance for a Shih Tzu?
Our starting figure is £33 a month for lifetime cover for a young Shih Tzu, but quotes vary with where you live and the policy. Look for a vet fee limit of at least £5,000 a year.
How long do Shih Tzus live?
About 13 years on average.
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