Overview of the Shih Tzu Breed and its Characteristics

The Shih Tzu is an ancient toy breed with a long and storied history. This breed has been around since the 1600s, when it was bred as a lapdog for Chinese emperors. Today, the Shih Tzu is one of the most popular small breeds in the world.

The Shih Tzu is classified by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a Toy Dog. They are small in size, usually weighing between 9-16 pounds. They have a short muzzle, round eyes, and flat faces with a black nose. The coat can be any color or combination of colors and is usually long and flowing.

The Shih Tzus temperament is generally outgoing and friendly. They are known to be very loyal to their families and make great companion dogs. They are also intelligent and can be easily trained with positive reinforcement methods. As they do not require much exercise, they make excellent apartment dogs.

Shih Tzus are prone to certain health issues such as eye problems, respiratory issues, hip dysplasia, heart conditions, skin allergies, and kidney disease. Therefore it’s important to visit your veterinarian regularly for check-ups and screenings.

Overall, the Shih Tzu breed makes an excellent companion pet for individuals or families looking for an affectionate lapdog that does not require a great deal of physical activity or space. With proper care and nutrition they can live up to 15 years.

Average Price of a Shih Tzu Puppy

The cost of a Shih Tzu puppy can vary greatly depending on several factors. While the average price for a Shih Tzu pup is around $500-$1000, prices can range anywhere from $400 to $2000 or more. It is important to understand what comprises the cost of a Shih Tzu puppy before making a purchase.

The most significant factor in determining the price of a Shih Tzu puppy is the breeders reputation. Reputable breeders are those that adhere to ethical breeding practices, such as health testing, and have good customer service and recordkeeping. In addition, they typically charge more for their puppies because they provide superior care and attention throughout the entire process.

Another factor that affects the cost of a Shih Tzu puppy is their age when purchased. Puppies that are younger than 8 weeks old tend to be more expensive as they require additional medical attention and socialization prior to adoption. Older puppies, on the other hand, may not require as much care but may still come with additional expenses such as vaccinations or spaying/neutering.

In addition to the breeders reputation and puppys age, other factors that can influence the price of a Shih Tzu puppy include coat color and markings, gender, pedigree (if applicable), location and availability. Some breeders may also offer discounts or specials if you purchase multiple puppies at once.

When searching for a new companion animal it is important to research reputable breeders in your area and learn about their policies regarding pet ownership before making any commitments. It is also important to remember that while purchasing an expensive puppy may seem like an attractive option initially, it often comes with high maintenance costs in the long run.

Specific Costs to Consider When Purchasing a Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are a popular breed of small, friendly dogs who make excellent family pets. Before you decide to get one, you should consider the costs associated with pet ownership. Here are some of the main costs associated with buying and caring for a Shih Tzu.

Purchasing Price

The price of a Shih Tzu puppy can range anywhere from $500-$1500 depending on the breeder and specific bloodline. If you’re looking for an older dog or a rescue, the cost may be lower.

Veterinary Care

Once your pup is home, it’s important to schedule regular veterinary visits for check-ups and vaccinations. Vaccinations typically cost around $50 each visit plus any additional treatments or medications that may be necessary. You’ll also want to factor in annual costs such as flea/tick prevention and heartworm medication.

Grooming Expenses

Shih Tzus have long, flowing coats that require regular grooming. This includes brushing their fur daily, trimming their nails every few weeks, and having their hair cut every couple months. Depending on where you take them, this can cost anywhere from $20-$100 per visit.

Food & Treats

A high-quality diet is essential for your pup’s health so it’s important to buy the best food and treats that you can afford. High-end brands may cost more upfront but they contain better ingredients which can save you money in the long run by reducing vet bills due to preventable illnesses.

Where to Purchase a Shih Tzu Puppy

Shih Tzu puppies are one of the most popular breeds of small dogs, due to their affectionate nature and loyalty. If you are looking for a Shih Tzu puppy, there are many different places you can go and purchase one. Before making your purchase, it is important to do your research in order to ensure you are getting a healthy and well-socialized puppy.

Research Breeder Reputation

The first step when looking for a Shih Tzu puppy is researching the reputation of the breeder. Look for reviews online or ask around at local pet stores or breeders for recommendations. You should also visit the breeder’s website and look at any available photos of their puppies. This will give you an idea of what kind of environment they provide for their animals.

Visit The Breeder

Once you have chosen a breeder, it is important to visit them in person before purchasing a puppy. This gives you an opportunity to ask questions about the puppy’s health and temperament, as well as see how they interact with other animals. Additionally, this gives you an opportunity to meet the parents of your potential new pup.

Check Health Records

It is important to check the health records of any potential puppy before purchasing them. Ask to see vaccination records and make sure they have been regularly checked by a veterinarian. Additionally, ask what type of diet they have been fed since birth and if they have any existing medical conditions that may need special care.

Socialization

Shih Tzu puppies need plenty of socialization in order to become well-rounded adults. Ask how often the puppies interact with other people and animals in order to get an idea of how much socialization they receive on a daily basis. It is also important to find out what kind of training methods have been used on the puppy so that you can continue with these methods once they come home with you.

FAQs About the Price of a Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are one of the most popular small breed dogs, and they make great companions. But before you adopt one, it is important to understand the costs that come with owning a Shih Tzu. Here are some frequently asked questions about the price of a Shih Tzu.

What is the Average Price of a Shih Tzu?

The average price for a purebred Shih Tzu puppy can range from $400-$1,500 depending on its pedigree and breeder. However, many reputable rescue organizations have adult Shih Tzus available for adoption at much lower prices.

Are There Any Additional Expenses?

In addition to the purchase price of your pup, there are other costs associated with owning a Shih Tzu such as food, grooming supplies, vet bills, and training classes. These expenses can add up quickly so it is important to budget accordingly.

What Factors Influence the Price?

There are several factors that can influence the price of a Shih Tzu puppy including its pedigree, breeder reputation, health history, and even location. Generally speaking, puppies from well-known breeders will cost more than those from lesser-known breeders.

Are There Any Discounts or Deals Available?

Many pet stores and online retailers offer discounts or deals on puppies throughout the year. Additionally, rescue organizations may also provide discounted adoption fees for their animals. Doing your research ahead of time can help you find the best deal on your new pup.