As a proud Shih Tzu mom to my fluffy Bella, I know the joy these little lion dogs bring. When I brought Bella home, I was stunned by the price range and ongoing costs. After chatting with my vet, Dr. Sarah Thompson, I learned what drives Shih Tzu prices in India and how to budget for their care. Here’s my detailed guide, blending personal experience with Dr. Thompson’s expertise, to help you navigate the costs of owning a Shih Tzu.

Factors That Affect Shih Tzu Dog Price in India

Shih Tzu prices vary widely due to several key factors. Dr. Thompson and I broke down the main drivers to help you understand what you’re paying for.

Breeder Reputation

A reputable breeder is worth their weight in gold. Expect to pay INR 30,000–80,000 for a Shih Tzu from a trusted source, as they prioritize health, temperament, and ethical breeding. Top-tier breeders, especially those registered with the Kennel Club of India (KCI), may charge INR 60,000 or more for puppies with exceptional qualities. I found Bella through a KCI-registered breeder in Mumbai, and the transparency (health records, meeting her parents) made the higher price feel justified.

Ancestry

A Shih Tzu’s bloodline heavily influences cost. Puppies from champion bloodlines, with award-winning ancestors, can cost INR 50,000–1,00,000, while standard purebreds range from INR 25,000–55,000. Mixed-breed Shih Tzus are cheaper, often INR 15,000–30,000. Bella’s champion-line mom bumped her price to INR 60,000, but her playful spirit was worth every rupee.

Age

Younger puppies (6–12 weeks) are pricier, typically INR 30,000–80,000, as they’re in high demand. Older Shih Tzus (6 months or more) cost less, around INR 20,000–40,000. Bella was 8 weeks when I got her, and the breeder warned that her price would drop if she hit 6 months. If you’re flexible, an older pup can save you money.

Health

Healthier puppies command higher prices. Breeders who invest in genetic screenings and vaccinations charge INR 35,000–80,000 for robust pups. Dr. Thompson says health checks for issues like hip dysplasia or eye conditions add value. Bella’s breeder provided a health guarantee, which gave me peace of mind despite the cost.

Coat

Rare coat colors like solid black, blue, or liver can push prices to INR 60,000–1,00,000. A healthy, glossy coat also adds value. Bella’s gold-and-white coat is common, so she was on the lower end at INR 60,000, but her silky fur still turns heads. Dr. Thompson notes that coat quality signals good care, so it’s worth paying for.

Shih Tzu Availability in India

Shih Tzus are popular across India, driving up demand and prices, especially in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. Their adaptability to apartments and charming personalities make them a favorite. You’ll find them at breeders, pet stores, and adoption centers, but high demand means prices rarely dip below INR 20,000. Bella’s breeder had a waitlist, which showed me how sought-after these pups are.

Price of a Shih Tzu in India

After researching with Dr. Thompson, here’s the 2025 price range for Shih Tzu puppies (under 6 months):

• Normal Quality: INR 25,000–55,000
• KCI Registered: INR 30,000–80,000
• Show Quality/Champion Line: INR 50,000–1,00,000
• City-Specific (e.g., Mumbai, Bangalore): INR 30,000–90,000

Bella cost INR 60,000 in Mumbai due to her champion lineage and breeder’s reputation. Prices are lower in smaller towns (INR 20,000–40,000) but higher in metros due to demand. Adoption is a cheaper option, often INR 5,000–15,000 through shelters.

Finding a Reputable Breeder

Choosing a breeder is critical. Dr. Thompson advised me to look for:

• Healthy Puppies: Bright eyes, glossy coats, and playful behavior. Bella was bouncing around, not caged or timid.
• Transparency: Contracts, health guarantees, and genetic screening results. Bella’s breeder showed me her parents’ health records.
• Specialization: Focus on Shih Tzus, not a “puppy supermarket.” Bella’s breeder only dealt with toy breeds.
• KCI Registration: Ensures ethical standards. I verified Bella’s papers with the Kennel Club of India.

Avoid puppy mills—Dr. Thompson warned they prioritize profit over health, leading to sick pups. Visit the breeder, meet the parents, and ask about socialization. Bella’s breeder let her play with other pups, which made her a social butterfly.

Shih Tzu Monthly Maintenance Cost

Owning a Shih Tzu isn’t just about the purchase price. Here’s what I spend on Bella monthly, backed by Dr. Thompson’s advice:

• Diet: High-quality small-breed food (e.g., Royal Canin) costs INR 3,000–5,000. Bella’s a picky eater, so I mix in vet-approved treats.
• Grooming: Her long coat needs daily brushing and professional grooming (INR 1,500–3,000 every 4–6 weeks). I budget INR 2,000 monthly.
• Medical Costs: Routine checkups, flea/tick prevention, and heartworm meds run INR 1,000–2,500. Bella’s annual vet visits are non-negotiable.
• Training: Bella’s stubborn streak meant INR 2,000–4,500 for obedience classes. Positive reinforcement with treats works best.
• Extras: Toys, bedding, and treats add INR 500–1,000. Bella’s obsessed with her squeaky lion toy.

Total Monthly Cost: INR 6,000–10,000 (average), up to INR 12,000 with extras like pet insurance (INR 1,000–2,000).

Shih Tzu Vaccination Cost in India

Vaccinations are crucial for Shih Tzus, as Dr. Thompson emphasized. Bella’s first shots were a lifesaver. Costs include:

• Core Vaccines (per dose):
  • Distemper, Parvovirus, Hepatitis: INR 200–400
  • Rabies: INR 100–300
• Non-Core Vaccines (per dose):
  • Leptospirosis: INR 250–500
  • Kennel Cough (Bordetella): INR 350–600
• Total First-Year Cost: INR 6,200–17,000 (includes 2–3 doses, consultation fees of INR 250–500).
• Puppy Packages: Some clinics offer deals for INR 1,000–1,500 per series.

Bella got her DHPP and rabies shots at 8 weeks, with boosters every 3–4 weeks. Dr. Thompson recommends annual boosters and rest post-vaccination to avoid reactions. Contact clinics for exact costs and ask about packages.

Shih Tzu Deworming Cost in India

Deworming keeps Bella parasite-free. Dr. Thompson suggests:

• Frequency: Puppies need deworming every 2–3 weeks until 3 months, then monthly. Adults need it 2–4 times yearly.
• Cost: INR 50–200 per dose (tablets like praziquantel or pyrantel). Total: INR 4,200–16,600 for puppies’ first year.
• Vet vs. Over-the-Counter: Vet-prescribed dewormers are safer. I hide Bella’s tablets in her favorite chicken treat.

Consult your vet for the right dosage and schedule, especially if Bella frequents dog parks.

Shih Tzu Spaying or Neutering Cost in India

Spaying or neutering is a game-changer, says Dr. Thompson. Costs vary:

• Spaying (females): INR 5,000–25,000
• Neutering (males): INR 4,100–20,000
• Additional Costs: Pre-operative tests (INR 500–1,000), pain meds (INR 200–550).
• Location: Metro clinics charge more than rural ones.

Bella’s spaying cost INR 15,000 in Mumbai, but it curbed her hormonal antics and reduced health risks. Government clinics offer cheaper options. Dr. Thompson says it promotes calmer behavior and longer life.

Common Health Conditions

Shih Tzus are prone to specific issues, per Dr. Thompson:

• Epilepsy: INR 12,000–35,000 for treatment.
• Hip Dysplasia: INR 4,000–13,000.
• Glaucoma: INR 3,000.

Bella’s clear so far, but I budget for annual checkups to catch issues early. Regular vet visits are key.

Preventative Care Costs

Preventative care keeps Bella healthy:

• Routine Checkups: INR 500–1,000 every 3–5 months.
• Vaccinations: INR 1,000–1,500 yearly for adults.
• Deworming: INR 750–1,000 every 3–4 months.
• Parasite Prevention: INR 600–850 monthly (flea/tick meds).
• Healthy Diet: INR 2,500–4,500 monthly.
• Dental Care: INR 1,500–2,500 yearly.

Total Annual Cost: INR 8,000–10,000. I save by buying bulk food and using vet-recommended parasite prevention.

How Expensive Is It to Own a Shih Tzu?

• Initial Costs: Puppy price (INR 25,000–1,00,000), supplies (INR 3,000–5,000).
• Recurring Costs:
  • Food: INR 3,000–5,000 monthly
  • Vet Care: INR 1,000–2,500 monthly
  • Grooming: INR 1,500–3,000 monthly
  • Other Supplies: INR 500–1,000 monthly
• Total Monthly Cost: INR 6,000–12,000
• Extras: Pet insurance (INR 500–1,200 monthly), training (INR 8,000–12,000 for a course).

Bella’s worth every penny, but budgeting is key.

Alternatives to Consider

Adoption is a budget-friendly option. Shelters charge INR 5,000–15,000, and you’ll save a life. Bella’s breeder offered adoption tips, and Dr. Thompson supports rescues, as many Shih Tzus need homes. Check local shelters or platforms like Tailsbuddy for adoption options.

Why Get a Shih Tzu?

• Healthy Dog: Reputable breeders ensure genetic health, reducing future vet bills. Bella’s screenings caught a minor issue early.
• Playful Nature: Shih Tzus are energetic and love playtime. Bella’s fetch sessions are our daily highlight.
• Long Lifespan: 12–16 years with good care. Dr. Thompson says Bella could hit 15 with her diet and checkups.
• Low Food Needs: They eat less than larger breeds, saving on food costs.
• Easy Grooming: Despite their long coats, self-cleaning habits mean baths every 3–6 months. Bella’s coat stays shiny with minimal effort.

Drawbacks: High initial costs (INR 25,000–1,00,000) and grooming needs. Socialization is crucial—Bella was shy until we worked on it with treats and playdates.

Final Thoughts

Bringing home a Shih Tzu like Bella is a joy, but it’s a commitment. Prices range from INR 25,000–1,00,000, driven by breeder reputation, lineage, age, health, and coat. Monthly costs (INR 6,000–12,000) cover food, grooming, and vet care. Dr. Thompson’s advice—choose a reputable breeder, prioritize health checks, and budget wisely—has kept Bella thriving. Whether you buy or adopt, research thoroughly and prepare for a loyal, fluffy companion who’ll steal your heart. Ready for your own Bella? Start with a trusted breeder or local shelter today!