A Shih Tzu is such a little dog, but owning a Shih Tzu does incur some big expenses. According to the AKC, the average dog owner spends about $15,000 on a dog over the dog’s lifetime. This can be anywhere from 12 to 18 years. That includes the cost of the dog, food, supplies, and standard veterinary care.
Suppose you factor in the Shih Tzu’s longer-than-average life span, the cost of monthly grooming, and any additional vet cares your Shih Tzu may need if she gets sick, you can go well over that figure.
Even an adopted older Shih Tzu can cost a lot in vet care and supplies. Consider the price of your time, too, because your Shih Tzu takes up a lot of it.
Is Owning A Shih Tzu In Your Budget?
If it simply is not in the budget, perhaps you should wait a while until you are in a better position to afford a dog.
Experts say petting a dog actually lowers your blood pressure, and pet owners are generally healthier and live longer than people without pets.
Considering how much you get back owning a Shih Tzu, you may conclude that your investment is worth every penny.
Note: This web page contains many references to the Shih Tzu’s significant grooming needs. This is no accident.
You will definitely have to spend time grooming your dog on a regular basis.
Even if you decide to cut your Shih Tzu’s hair short to avoid the constant grooming, it will grow back.
To really appreciate a Shih Tzu as a pet, you really have to like taking care of the breed’s long luxurious coat or at least have the money to afford a professional groomer.
