Shih Tzu vs Maltese
Yearly, first-year and lifetime cost side by side — adult dogs in Texas, standard kibble, insured, salon grooming where the coat needs clipping. Change the settings.
A Maltese costs $25 more per year than a Shih Tzu — mostly grooming and food & treats. Over 12.8 years that is about $320.
| Category | Shih Tzu | Maltese | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food & treats | $277 | $179 | +$98 |
| Vet & preventive | $800 | $803 | $-3 |
| Insurance | $812 | $812 | $0 |
| Grooming | $301 | $421 | $-120 |
| Supplies & gear | $58 | $58 | $0 |
| Training & boarding | $313 | $313 | $0 |
| Total per year | $2,561 | $2,586 | $-25 |
| First year | $3,512 | $3,537 | |
| Lifetime | $34,759 | $35,985 |
The Shih Tzu is the bigger dog (12.5 lb against 7 lb), which by itself means more calories and a higher parasite-prevention band — $98 a year more on food alone.
Grooming differs: the Shih Tzu has a long double coat ($301 a year at our defaults) and the Maltese a long silky coat ($421). Median lifespans are 12.8 and 13.1 years, which is why the lifetime totals ($34,759 vs $35,985) move the same way as the yearly figures.
Health records: Shih Tzus are most often seen for periodontal disease and anal sac impaction; none is available for the Maltese. See each breed page for the full table.
Questions
Which is cheaper to own, a Shih Tzu or a Maltese?
The Shih Tzu: about $2,561 a year in Texas against $2,586 for the Maltese, a difference of $25.
What is the lifetime cost of a Shih Tzu vs a Maltese?
About $34,759 for a Shih Tzu over a 12.8-year median lifespan and $35,985 for a Maltese over 13.1 years, including first-year set-up and senior care.