There’s nothing cheap about owning a Shih Tzu dog. The price of this unique breed of dog can run you on average anywhere from $500 to over $2000. However, this all depends on the breeder, the dog, and the country the breeder resides.
I suppose you are already thinking that the cost of owning a Shih Tzu is too much. Do not forget to consider the cost of veterinary care, vaccinations, food, grooming, training classes, pet supplies, and we cannot overlook the time you’ll invest in training, caring for, and grooming your new Shih Tzu puppy.
Dogs can put a dent in your wallet, especially if they’re high maintenance like the Shih Tzu, which has heavy grooming needs and genetic health problems that are breed-related.
Also, older dogs need a lot more vet care. And in most cases, they would need treatments for diseases related to age.
The costs of owning a dog keep coming. On a side note, whenever you purchase the dog. Do not forget to ask the breeder how much it would cost to register the new puppy with the AKC and go about doing it.
Most breeders like to discuss price and other costs of raising their dogs to weed out the pretenders from the people that are serious about owning a Shih Tzu dog and can provide the financial commitment necessary to take care of a puppy.
All Breeders Want Careful and Dedicated People Owning a Shih Tzu Dog
I know these costs may seem too much or more than you’d like to spend on a dog. However, keep in mind that purchasing a Shih Tzu from a pet store or a commercial breeder can start at the top of the scale from the very start.
For example, I’ve personally seen Shih Tzu’s for sale on the internet for $4000 and up. Also, these dogs will cost you more down the road, especially if they end up with health problems or behavioral problems.
Once you’ve visited the breeder a few times and you’re finally comfortable with them. Ask the breeder when it would be possible to take home the dog.
If the breeder has a litter at that time, then you can start a dialogue about which Shih Tzu puppy might be right for you. Most breeders will not give away a puppy during the first visit. It may take two or three trips for a breeder to properly gauge if you’re a good match for one of their precious little Shih Tzu puppies.
This process takes time because good breeders like to check the references of the people that may be potential owners of their dogs.
Good breeders do not breed for profit. They’re all about the well-being of the puppy and will take every precaution to put their dogs into the right home.
Do Want to Own A Shih Tzu for The Right Reasons?
Keep in mind that owning a Shih Tzu dog is a big decision that too many people take lightly. Many potential owners only see a small, little, and cuddly puppy but forget that this bundle of energy will eventually grow up.
Adult Shih Tzu dogs come with responsibilities such as training, exercise, quality time, attention, plenty of love, food, and health care. However, owning a Shih Tzu dog is still a fantastic experience, but people need to understand that there are right and wrong motives for wanting such a unique breed.
Owning a Shih Tzu dog also depends on other reasons, such as living space, financial ability, and lifestyle. This breed demands a lot of attention, love, play, exercise, veterinary care, and the best quality Shih Tzu dog food. Are you in a position to deliver all the aforementioned factors for the dog?
If the answer is yes, then a Shih Tzu is the perfect dog for you. Nevertheless, keep in mind that these dogs can live up to 17 years or more. Therefore, understand that this relationship is a lifetime commitment; So, make sure that you are emotionally and financially able to take on this lifetime commitment.
