The initial cost of purchasing a Shih Poo puppy can range from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on factors such as bloodline, breeder reputation, and location.
As a responsible owner, you'll need to factor in the cost of spaying or neutering, which can range from $50 to $500.
Regular grooming is a must for Shih Poo owners, with costs ranging from $30 to $90 per session, depending on the frequency and complexity of the grooming needs.
Worth a look: Shih Tzu Grooming
History and Origins
The Shih Poo is a relatively new breed of dog, still not recognized by the American Kennel Club as an official breed.
They were bred to be a hypoallergenic lapdog, making them perfect for those with allergies.
Poodle crosses, like the Shih Poo, are one of the most popular forms of hybrid dog breeds.
A Shih Poo puppy can cost anywhere between $500 to upwards of $1,000 when bought from a reputable breeder.
Discover more: Shitzu Breeds
Health and Care
Shih Poos can be prone to dental problems, so regular brushing and dental checkups are a must to prevent issues. You can also provide dental chews to help keep their teeth clean.
Some Shih Poos may inherit eye problems, brachycephalic syndrome, and hip and kidney issues from their Shih Tzu parent, while also inheriting Cushing's disease, bladder stones, and skin tumors from their Poodle parent.
Here are some common health issues that may affect your Shih Poo:
Regular vet checkups are essential to catch any potential health issues early on, and a wellness plan can help ease the financial burden of routine vet care.
Health and Conditions
As a responsible pet owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your Shih Poo. These dogs can inherit health problems from their parent breeds, including Shih Tzus and Poodles.
Some common health issues that Shih Poos may face include eye problems, brachycephalic syndrome, and hip and kidney issues, which are inherited from their Shih Tzu parent. They may also inherit Cushing's disease, bladder stones, and skin tumors from their Poodle parent.
Related reading: Shih Tzu and Skin Allergies
Dental issues are another common problem in Shih Poos, which can be prevented with regular brushing, dental chews, and checkups.
Here are some specific health issues that Shih Poos may be prone to:
- Teary eyes
- Lung disorders
- Von Willebrand’s disease
- Intervertebral disc disease
Regular vet checkups can help prevent and detect these health issues early on, and a wellness plan can ease the financial burden of routine vet care.
Training
Training is key to achieving good health and well-being. Research suggests that regular exercise can increase life expectancy by up to 3 years.
A well-structured training plan can help you reach your fitness goals. For example, a study found that people who exercised for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, had a 30% lower risk of chronic disease.
It's essential to listen to your body and rest when needed. In fact, the article notes that getting enough sleep is crucial for physical recovery and immune function.
Training with a buddy or personal trainer can be motivating and help you stay accountable. This is especially true for people who are new to exercise, as they may need guidance on proper form and technique.
A balanced diet is also vital for optimal health. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables can help provide essential nutrients and antioxidants.
Take a look at this: Shih Tzu Training
Grooming
Grooming is a crucial part of Shih Poo care, and regular upkeep is a must. You'll need to purchase a good quality slicker or pin brush, a sturdy comb, and a nail clipper to keep your Shih Poo looking and feeling its best.
Budgeting for haircuts is also essential, with professional dog groomers charging between $50 and $100 every 4 to 8 weeks. This can add up quickly, but there is a way to save money and bond with your dog at the same time.
Grooming your Shih Poo at home is a great way to save a substantial amount of money, and with a little practice and patience, you'll become a pro in no time.
Cost of Owning
Owning a Shih Poo can be a costly endeavor, but understanding the expenses involved can help you prepare.
The initial Shih Poo price can range from $200 to $2,400, depending on various factors.
You'll also need to budget for everyday items and supplies, which can add up quickly. For example, toys can cost anywhere from $30 to $150.
Grooming supplies are another essential expense, with costs ranging from $35 to $60 per year.
Vet care is also a significant expense, with annual costs ranging from $500 to $850.
Here's a breakdown of estimated annual costs for a Shih Poo:
Remember, these costs are just estimates, and your actual expenses may vary depending on your specific situation.
Breeding and Ownership
The initial Shih Poo price can be a significant expense, but it's just the beginning.
You'll also need to budget for everyday items and supplies, which can add up to one-time expenses.
For the next 10 to 15 years, you'll have monthly and yearly costs to consider, just like any dog owner.
Breeder Reputation
A reputable breeder's reputation can significantly impact the price of a Shih Poo puppy. Reputable breeders are in high demand and can charge more money.
They focus on health and have extensive knowledge on raising happy, healthy, and well-rounded puppies. This includes training, socialization, and daily care.
Many well-known, reputable Shih Poo breeders are affiliated with organizations that promote responsible breeding. This includes the American Kennel Club (AKC), Continental Kennel Club (CKC), or the Good Dog's Responsible Breeding Program.
These breeders are extremely transparent about their program and processes, and have no problem answering any questions you might have. Their transparency and honesty can give you peace of mind when adopting a puppy.
Reputable breeders also provide genetic health guarantees, which can give you confidence in the health of your new puppy. They also keep their dogs and puppies in a safe and loving home environment, feed them a healthy diet, train them, socialize them, and spoil them from birth until adoption.
Their prices can seem high, but you'll know that you'll get a healthy puppy that's been well taken care of. The average Shih Poo price from a reputable breeder starts from $1200 and can go up to $4000.
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Ownership
As you consider bringing a Shih Poo into your family, it's essential to think about the costs involved in owning one.
The initial Shih Poo price can range from $200 to $2,400, depending on various factors.
You'll also need to budget for everyday items and supplies, which can cost anywhere from $195 to $740 per year.
Monthly and yearly costs, such as vet care, will also add up quickly, ranging from $500 to $850 per year.
Grooming is another significant expense, with costs ranging from $35 to $720 per year.
Training your Shih Poo can also incur costs, ranging from $120 to $825 per year.
To give you a better idea, here's a breakdown of estimated annual costs:
The grand total for owning a Shih Poo can range from $1,210 to $3,495 per year, depending on your specific circumstances.
Location
Your geographical location can influence the Shih Poo price in the area, with breeders charging more in highly populated areas.
Most commonly, breeders charge more in areas where the overall cost of living is higher, resulting in a higher Shih Poo cost of adoption.
The average price can vary by hundreds, even thousands of dollars, when comparing the Shih Poo cost of adoption in different states.
If you find reputable breeders in neighboring states selling their puppies at much lower price points, adopting your new Shih Poo out of state could pay off.
However, you'll also want to consider additional expenses like travel, such as gas or airfares, and flight nanny services.
A different take: Shih Tzu Puppies Price Range
Size and Appearance
The Shih Poo's size and appearance can vary depending on its parent breeds. They typically weigh between 9-16 pounds and stand 8-10 inches tall.
Their coats are a key factor in their appearance, and they can have a variety of colors such as white, black, brown, and gray.
Characteristics
The Shih Poo's size can be a bit tricky to predict, but we can make an educated guess based on their parents. The Shih Tzu and Poodle are both small breeds, so it's likely the Shih Poo will be small too.
Their weight can range from 4 to 18 pounds, but it really depends on the individual dog. As a Shih Poo owner, I've seen some of them be quite petite, while others are a bit more robust.
The Shih Poo's appearance is also influenced by their parents, with the Shih Tzu's long, flowing coat and the Poodle's curly locks making for a unique combination. Their fur can be a variety of colors, including white, black, brown, and gray.
Their eyes are usually dark and expressive, and their ears are often long and floppy. As a friend of a Shih Poo owner, I've been impressed by how adorable and endearing these traits can be.
Size and Coat
When buying a Shih Poo, you might notice that some breeders charge more for different sizes and coat types.
Some breeders charge extra for Small Shih Poo puppies with Toy Poodle parents.
It's not uncommon for breeders to charge more for Shih Poos with Poodle-inspired, low-shedding curly coats.
These extra costs can vary depending on the breeder, but it's essential to consider them when budgeting for your new pet.
Other Considerations
When considering the cost of a Shihpoo, you'll also want to think about ongoing expenses like vet bills and pet insurance. The average annual cost of pet insurance for a Shihpoo is around $200-$300.
Some owners may also need to factor in costs associated with their dog's grooming needs. Shihpoos require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur, which can cost around $30-$90 per session.
Regular check-ups with the vet are essential to keep your Shihpoo healthy. On average, a vet visit can cost anywhere from $50 to $100.
If you're planning to travel with your Shihpoo, you'll need to consider the costs of pet-friendly accommodations and transportation. Some pet-friendly hotels can charge an additional $50-$100 per night.
Shihpoos are prone to certain health issues, such as eye problems and dental issues, which can require costly treatments. The average cost of dental surgery for a Shihpoo can range from $500 to $1,000.
A different take: Dog Daycare Insurance Cost
Sources
- The Farmer's Dog Cost — and Value (thefarmersdog.com)
- Shih Poo - Shih Tzu Toy Poodle Cross Breed Guide (animalcorner.org)
- Shih-Poo (Shih Tzu & Poodle Mix): Info, Pictures, Care & ... (dogster.com)
- Shih Poo Price: Overview of Pricing Factors & Ongoing Costs (doodledoods.com)
- How Expensive is It to Own A Shih-Tzu? (wagwalking.com)
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