ShiChis dogs are adorable! They combine the best of both worlds. This cross of Shih Tzus and Chihuahuas is an adorable toy pup that would be a great choice for many different families. They aren’t as sassy as Chihuahuas, they are easy to potty train, and don’t need much space or exercise. So it’s no wonder that these dogs are as popular as they are! We have already talked about what you have to know before adopting a Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix dog, but the one thing that we want to further touch on is the Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix price. And not just the price of the puppies, but how much it would cost you to upkeep these adorable pets. So let’s see how much it costs to own one of these precious puppies.
How much is a Shih Tzu and Chihuahua mix worth?
Both of the parent breeds, the Shih Tzu and the Chihuahua, are expensive dogs. So it’s no wonder that their crossbreed will be pretty pricey as well. However, the price is still reasonable, especially when compared to other designer dogs, such as the Maltipoo or Goldendoodle. But considering how popular and versatile these hybrid dogs are, they are priced higher than the average canine.
To get one of these adorable puppies, you will have to pay somewhere between $500 and $1,500. The price depends on your location, the current demand, the person you are buying from, but also the age, gender, and coat of your future dog. If you want to buy a puppy from a champion bloodline, you will certainly have to pay extra.
When you are looking for a puppy, make sure that you take your time. Don’t go for the cheapest puppy available. You have to be aware of the fact that there are plenty of scammers out there as well. They will promise you a healthy puppy, send you pictures, schedule the pickup, and block you once they get the money that they are looking for. Always do your research and only buy from people who have good reviews and plenty of happy customers.
What does the Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix price depend on?
There are plenty of things that determine the end price of a dog. As we have already explained, the main factors are who you are buying from, how old your dog is, and if he has any rare and unusual features about him. When buying a dog, you have four options available, a reliable breeder, a puppy mill, a backyard breeder, and an animal shelter. All of these organizations will price the dogs differently. Of course, reputable breeders will be the most expensive ones, however, they are also the ones that should provide you with proof that you are getting a perfect pooch.
Besides that, age will be a huge factor as well. Most commonly, dogs are sold at 8 weeks old. That’s why breeders often start looking for customers as soon as they get a new litter. 8 weeks is the perfect mark, your dog is still young enough to respond to training, but old enough to survive without his mom. Usually, the older the dog is the lower the price will become. So if you don’t mind adopting an adult dog, you could save some money if you decide to go for an older canine. But be aware that it could come with different downsides as well, especially when it comes to training and socialization.
Why are reputable breeders so expensive?
When looking for a Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix, you might be wondering why reputable breeders are so much more expensive than, for example, puppy mills or pet shops. You have to understand that it takes a lot of knowledge and skill to breed healthy dogs. Reputable breeders are the ones who do different health screenings and genetic tests to ensure that you are ending up with a healthy dog. They will also start training your dog before he gets into your hand. So chances are that your puppy will already be potty trained and know the basic commands.
Source: Instagram (@mocha.shichi)
So it’s no wonder that reputable breeders charge more than backyard breeders. All of the things that we have listed cost a lot of money! But they are also incredibly time-consuming. However, we would highly suggest that you consider one thing, the price of your puppy is a one-time expense! This isn’t the time to look for a bargain, because you are buying a living and breathing creature! So make sure that you go the responsible route and buy from someone who has the documentation to prove that your future pup is as healthy as it gets. You will be thankful that you did it later on in the future.
Should I buy a puppy from a puppy mill?
No, we would never suggest supporting organizations such as puppy mills. All that puppy mills are after is your money. They don’t have your future dog’s best interests at heart. These are inhumane and high-volume dog breeding organizations, that are only in it for profit. Puppy mills don’t do any type of health testing, and your chances of ending up with an unhealthy dog are too high. In addition to that, these puppies also aren’t trained or socialized, and many of them could end up with a bad temper. All of these risks just aren’t worth that couple of hundred dollars that you might be able to save. So stick with reliable breeders.
What about animal shelters?
Animal shelters are wonderful facilities. They give these dogs a second chance to find their forever home. However, if you are in the market for one specific dog breed, especially with such a popular dog like the ShiChi is, finding one in an animal shelter will be difficult. To be upfront, your chances of finding a Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix in an animal shelter are very slim. But why not start there? Call up your local animal shelters and ask them about the Shih Tzu or Chihuahua mixes that they have available. You might be lucky and get the hybrid dog you desire, or they might offer you a similar dog that they have available. Adopting a dog is an unbelievably rewarding experience, and it’s also less expensive than buying a puppy. Expect to pay around $200 in adoption fees.
Source: Instagram (@thatgrrlshireen)
How much does it cost to own a ShiChi?
The costs don’t end once you bring your Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix puppy home. In fact, the real expenses are just starting. No, we don’t want to scare you. However, you have to be aware of how expensive it is to own a dog. You are now their main provider and the person who is responsible that all of their needs are met. Those include food, grooming, toys, training, vet bills, and more.
So let’s take a quick look at all of the ShiChi expenses that you have to be aware of before adopting one of these puppies. Also, be aware that these costs are almost universal. All dogs need food and health care, so whatever dog you decide to get, make sure that you have the financial means that it takes to care for them.
Miscellaneous
Let’s start with the miscellaneous things that every dog owner needs. These include dog toys, bed, food and water bowls, leash, collars, and anything in between. There are so many things that dog needs that will probably surprise you. Now, you don’t have to splurge when buying these items. There are many options available. You can buy branded stuff, or just the regular items that you can find on Amazon. Honestly, we recommend overspending on most of these items. Especially when it comes to toys. Dogs grow bored of them, and you will have to find a replacement in a couple of months anyway. All of these things could cost you anywhere from $100 to $400.
Food
ShiChi dogs are tiny, so it’s no wonder that they don’t eat a lot at all. However, they still need food. You have to make sure that the food they eat is healthy, nutritious, and balanced. You can either buy premium dog kibble or prepare the meals yourself at home. Whatever you like. Of course, the easiest thing to do is to buy premade premium dog kibble. This will save you some time, and dogs usually like them the most as well. The average Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix needs just one cup of dog food per day! So even if you buy premium dog food, it shouldn’t cost you more than $10 a week. Make sure you divide their food into a few smaller portions throughout the day, as these puppies are prone to hypoglycemia.
Source: Instagram (@mocha.shichi)
Exercise and Training
Have you ever witnessed a Chihuahua creating a scene in a public place? The answer is probably yes because these dogs are known for their big personality. And because ShiChis are part Chihuahua, they can have an attitude as well. They are especially prone to developing “small dog syndrome”, which could make your daily walks in the dog park chaotic. That’s why we would suggest enrolling your dog into puppy school as soon as you bring him home. That should cost you somewhere around $250. Sure, it’s expensive, but it will be so rewarding. Your dog will learn the basic commands, he will also get the chance to socialize with other canines.
Grooming
Grooming is something that differs from owner to owner. Some know how to do it themselves, while others rely on a professional dog groomer. These dogs aren’t too complicated to groom, especially if they inherit the short coat of their Chihuahua parent. But even the long coat of a Shih Tzu is manageable. Besides brushing, bathing, and occasional cuts, these dogs also need teeth brushing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning. If you want to pay a groomer to do these things for you, expect to pay from $50 to $70 dollars per session. But if this sounds too expensive for you, there are also plenty of ways to learn how to do it yourself. Even the haircuts! Look up for tutorials online, or read the articles that we have linked.
Health and vet bills
We have already talked about the ShiChi health issues and lifespan, where we explained that, in theory, this crossbreed should be healthier than it’s purebred parents. However, that doesn’t mean that these toy dogs can’t ever get sick. In fact, ShiChi puppies can end up with any of the health issues that their parent breeds are prone to. That’s why buying from a reputable breeder is so important. You should always ask for health tests and screenings that will ensure that you end up with a perfect pup. Sure, even dogs that were tested can get sick, but the chances will be much lower.
The most common health problems of this breed are patellar luxation, hypoglycemia, and obesity. But other health conditions are possible as well. It’s your responsibility as a dog owner to take your dog to his annual vet visits. That will make it possible to diagnose these health issues early on, which will make treatment easier. The treatment for patellar luxation is often surgery, which could cost you thousands of dollars. That’s why we would suggest to invest in pet insurance, which would cost you around $30 to $50 a month.
Source: Instagram (queenofgreen_84)
Why is the Shih Tzu Chihuahua price so high?
Now that you know the Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix worth, you might be wondering why they are so expensive. Well, you have to understand that ShiChi puppies make amazing family dogs, due to their small size, unique temperament, and adorable physical traits. As a little dog, the Chi Tzu is even a great choice for small places, like apartments. They don’t have high exercise needs, and are easy to train with positive reinforcement training sessions.
So taking everything into consideration that we have listed above, it’s pretty reasonable to assume that ShiChi puppies will cost you a bit more than the average canine. Toy dog breeds like the Shih Tzu Chihuahua mixes are wonderful companion breeds and intelligent dogs that any household would be lucky to have. They will give you unconditional love, and when given the right training and socialization, they will always be on good behavior.
The price of these canines is similar to the price of their purebred parents. So whatever you may pick, the ShiChi puppy, or one of it’s parent breeds, a Chihuahua or Shih Tzu puppy, with the right training and possible puppy classes, you will end up with a lovely pet, with a good temperament and witty charm. Once again, remember that the price of your puppy is only a one-time expense, but the joy that they provide you with will last for years.
Conclusion: Shih Tzu Chihuahua mix price
In conclusion, these dogs aren’t cheap. However, no dog is. At least if you want to provide your dog with a good and happy life. No, we don’t say that you should buy the most expensive toys and collars for your canine, but every dog needs food, health care, and other things like trips to the groomer or a dog bed. Because this is such a popular hybrid dog, they are a bit more expensive when bought from a reputable breeder. However, the price isn’t crazy high, like with the fluffy French Bulldog, for example.
Just like with any other dog breed, it’s important to be real and honest with yourself and determine if you have the financial means that it takes to keep up with one of these dogs. They don’t only requier money, but also your time, patience, and a lot of love. These are gentle dogs that need your full attention, which is the reason why they don’t mix well with small children. Are you the proud owner of a ShiChi puppy yourself? Let us know in the comments.