The Real Cost of Raising a Shih Tzu in India: It’s Not Just the Price Tag

J'adore
Aug 1
8 min read

A Shih Tzu with a topknot stands next to a grocery bag overflowing with food items like fish, chicken, broccoli, and rice, pushing some away with its paw. — Picky Pup at the Grocery Haul

So, you saw a video of a Shih Tzu with a bow on its head, rolling over like a cinnamon bun, and now you want one too? Cute. But before you manifest me into your life, let’s have a real conversation. Because raising a dog like me isn’t just about cuddles and Insta stories—it’s about commitment, coins, and a lot of combing.

🐶 1. First, It’s Not “Just a Cute Dog”

A Shih Tzu isn’t a purse accessory or a floor rug that barks. I’m a complex, high-maintenance, big-personality kind of dog with needs that go way beyond what most people imagine. And honestly? Most Shih Tzus in India are bought on impulse—because we “look cute”—and then given away, neglected, or kept in terrible conditions when the reality hits.

If you’re thinking of getting a Shih Tzu just because we’re small and “manageable,” think again. We're tiny—but our needs are anything but. And no, we are not hypoallergenic (who started this rumour, anyway?).

💥 Important: In India, the breeding scene is murky. All breeders are unethical, and 99.99% are operating illegally. Puppy mills are real, and yes, they sell Shih Tzus too. If you truly love dogs, don’t support this cruelty. Adopt from a rescue, or only buy from an ethical breeder who can show you health checks, parents, living conditions, and actual care practices—not just pretty pictures on WhatsApp.

✂️ 2. Grooming Isn’t a ‘Once-a-Month’ Thing

Look, I get it—my flowing locks are fabulous. But they don’t just wake up this way. Shih Tzus like me have a long, double coat that tangles faster than you can say “bath time.” If you're not brushing me every day, things can get real ugly, real quick. Mats behind my ears, underarms, and tail? Yep. Nightmare fuel. Eye infections from gunk buildup? Not cute. I’ve even heard horror stories of maggot wounds. MAGGOTS. I wish I was being dramatic.

And please don’t assume I’m going to sit still for all this. Most of us don’t actually like grooming. It’s not in our DNA. If you don’t patiently train us to tolerate brushing, nail clipping, bathing, and all the poking and prodding from an early age—well, good luck. Some of us snap. Some of us bolt. All of us judge.

So no, this isn’t a “drop me off at the parlour once a month and call it a day” kind of situation. Grooming me is a daily lifestyle. If you’re not up for it, maybe a plush toy would be more your pace.

Also: We don’t have fur, we have hair. That means it just keeps growing—and matting—and turning into tight knots that pull at my skin and hurt like crazy. Grooming isn’t vanity, it’s basic hygiene. Neglect it and I can get skin infections, restricted movement, or worse. Trust me, we’d both rather not go down that road. And no, shaving me down to the skin isn’t the answer. That’s not “grooming”—it’s a cry for help.

💸 Cost Breakdown

Professional grooming: ₹2,000–₹5,000 per session (every 4–6 weeks)
At-home grooming tools: Slicker brush, detangler, scissors, clippers, nail grinder—₹3,000–₹8,000
Daily effort: Brushing, cleaning tear stains, trimming hair around my eyes, checking for mats everywhere

So let’s be honest: letting grooming slide isn’t just lazy—it’s neglect. And neglect has consequences I’ll have to suffer for. Be better. Brush me.

🚽 3. You Will Never Pee Alone Again

We’re often called “Velcro dogs” because we stick to our humans like fur on a black outfit. We thrive on companionship, and we’re not the type to nap quietly while you work a 10-hour shift or go out five days a week.

Some breeds tolerate alone time. Shih Tzus? Not really.

📉 Chronic loneliness can lead to stress-induced illnesses, separation anxiety, and even doggy depression. So unless someone’s home most of the day—or you’ve got a great plan for doggy daycare—we might not be the right match.

🥩 4. Kibble? No. Species-Appropriate Food? Yes.

Let me get straight to the point: if you’re thinking of feeding me those dry, crunchy pebbles humans call "kibble," please don’t. My kind (a.k.a. Shih Tzus) often end up with gut issues, itchy skin, those pesky tear stains, and even dental drama from eating ultra-processed food like kibble or canned stuff.

🧪 Kibble is often loaded with preservatives, fillers, and ultra-processed junk. Not to mention: many brands are not formulated for Indian climates or ingredient standards. That ‘chicken’ label? 9/10 times it’s mystery meat.

❗ Even certain proteins, vegetables, or so-called "healthy" ingredients can cause allergies or intolerances in us. What worked for your cousin’s dog might make me break out in itchy patches. Every Shih Tzu is different—diet needs to be personalized and adjusted over time.

So yes, it’s doable. But you’ve got to be willing to do the work.

I thrive on fresh, home-cooked, meat-forward meals. Think: organ meat, muscle meat, bone or calcium sources, a few dog-safe veggies, and all the right supplements. Basically, what my ancestors might’ve eaten—if they had a private chef. Which I do. (That’s you.)

📦 Balanced Meals Checklist:

Organ meat, muscle meat, bone/calcium source
Omega 3s, vitamins and minerals

💸 Monthly Cost:

₹4,500–₹10,000 depending on your ingredient game and whether you’re cooking or ordering

➕ Supplements I might need:

Omega oils, joint support, probiotics, multivitamins
₹500–₹2,000/month depending on what’s right for me

Feeding me real, nourishing food isn’t some over-the-top indulgence. It’s literally the bare minimum. I’m giving you my whole heart—you can at least give me what my body actually needs.

Our sensitive stomachs and long coats need more than just convenience. A balanced, home-cooked, species-appropriate diet—ideally meat-based—is what keeps us healthy, energetic, and allergy-free. And yes, it needs to be properly planned with essential supplements.

And FYI, most of us won’t do well on random human food scraps either. What’s “harmless” for you might mess with my gut for days.

🧸 5. Toys, Enrichment & Mental Health

Let’s bust a myth real quick: Shih Tzus aren’t lazy. We’re under-stimulated.

We’re smart. We love sniffing, figuring things out, tearing into boxes (responsibly, of course), and learning new things. Give me a snuffle mat or a chew bone over mindless lounging any day. Okay, fine—after mindless lounging. Balance, people.

Here’s what keeps me sane (and out of trouble):

🔹 Chew bones, shredding paper/cardboard boxes, puzzles, snuffle mats

💰 ₹1,000–₹3,000/month depending on how fun your rotation is

🔹 Walks and socialisation

💪 Daily commitment—even though we’re small, we still need to move and sniff 2–3x a day. Sniffing is cardio.

🔹 Training and bonding

🎯 Short, consistent sessions using love, treats, and praise—we do not respond to yelling. That’s just rude.

This isn’t about “keeping us busy”—it’s about keeping us mentally well. A bored Shih Tzu is a barky, bitey, zoomie-gremlin version of themselves. A stimulated Shih Tzu? Now that’s royalty.

🧾 6. Vet Bills Add Up—Fast

Us Shih Tzus are generally healthy if raised well, but we come with our own unique breed quirks. You know, like a fancy vintage car.Cute, needy, and possibly more high-maintenance than your ex. But worth it.

Here’s the stuff you might have to deal with:

👁️ Eye ulcers (our big beautiful eyes = dust magnets)

😮‍💨 Breathing issues (we’re flat-faced. It's a vibe, but also a risk.)

🦷 Dental drama (if you don’t brush or give us chews, don’t act shocked later)

🐶 Skin and ear infections (we’re fluffy. Stuff gets trapped.)

🦴 Joint issues later in life (yes, even royalty ages)

💉 Routine care:

Annual vaccinations & checkups: ₹2,000–₹5,000
Preventives/DIY/home care for ticks, fleas, worms: ₹300–₹800/month
Dental cleanings: ₹3,000–₹8,000 annually (unless you’re on top of brushing and chew rotation)

🚨 Unexpected stuff:

Emergency care/surgeries: ₹5,000–₹80,000+ depending on what life throws at me
Senior care (joint support, mobility help, eye stuff): Budget for it—I plan to live 14–16 glorious years, and I’ll expect luxury till the end.

So yeah, I’m small. But the bills? Not always. Having a medical emergency fund or pet insurance isn’t paranoia—it’s love in advance.

🧸 7. The Hidden Costs of Tiny Royalty

You thought you were just getting a dog. Turns out, you signed up for a full-time flat-faced diva. Surprise!

Here’s what you’ll end up spending on (sometimes out of guilt, mostly because you’re obsessed with me):

👗 Clothes & accessories: ₹500–₹2,000/monthYes, I need options. No, I don’t wear the same thing twice for photos.

🧳 Travel gear (bags, strollers, car seats): ₹2,000–₹10,000 one-timeYou can't just carry me anyhow. I require structured padding and aesthetic coordination.

🌴 Pet-friendly trips, flights & staycations: Varies, but let’s just say… your vacation becomes our vacation.

👩‍🍼 Daycares, pet sitters, boarding: If I’m not going with you, I better be pampered while you’re gone.

👑 Senior years: I plan to live long, walk slow, demand warm food, and retire like royalty. Budget for that too.

I’m not just a pet—I’m a lifestyle.

Note: Prices mentioned are Indian estimates as of 2025—they can vary based on city, vet, food choices, and your Shih Tzu’s level of diva.

🐾 So, Should You Get One?

Only if you’re truly ready. Not just in the “awww cute doggo” way—but with time, money, patience, and that thing humans call... commitment.

If you read everything above and still find yourself smiling and nodding—congrats, you might just be Shih Tzu material.

But if you’re hesitating? Honestly, that’s smart. We’re not for everyone, and it’s better to know now than to end up crying (both of us) later.

🚫 Please Don’t Buy UsMost breeders in India? Bad news. Think shady deals, sick puppies, and exhausted dog parents. It’s heartbreaking, and no Instagram cuteness is worth that.

✅ Do This InsteadAdopt. Rescues are full of Shih Tzus who were once someone’s “impulse buy.” We’re out here waiting for a second chance and someone who won’t give up when the honeymoon phase ends.

❤️ I’m not a product. I’m family. I have emotions. I throw tantrums, give kisses on command (sometimes), and yes—I still hate the vet. But I deserve safety, not status.

🧠 A Quick Reality Check (aka Red Flag Radar):

Do you travel a lot without your dog?
Are you gone all day, every day?
Does the idea of daily brushing sound... exhausting?
Are you unwilling to feed fresh food or research balanced meals?
Will you actually walk and talk to your dog every day?

If you said “no” to most of these… maybe I’m not the breed for you. No shade, no shame. Just honesty.

If you’re still on the fence, pause. Research. Reflect. Loving us starts with choosing us for the right reasons.

📌 PS: My humans are working on a free guide to help you adopt right—ethical rescues, red flags, prep lists, all that jazz. Till then, just remember:

I’m a full-time, 365-days-a-year deal—not a weekend trend.

Choose me with heart. Keep me with sense. Love me for life.