If you've searched "Shih Tzu for sale under $300," you're not alone. Everyone wants a fair deal on a new family member. But when it comes to puppies, a very low price can cost you a lot more in the end. Here's an honest look at what a Shih Tzu puppy costs, the warning signs consumer agencies point to, and how we price our puppies at Sherman's Shih Tzu Puppies.
What Does a Shih Tzu Puppy Cost?
Prices vary by breeder, region and registration. What matters more than any single number is what the price includes. Before you compare listings, ask each seller:
- Is the puppy registered, and with which registry?
- Have the parents been health or DNA tested?
- Is there a written health guarantee?
- What vet care and records come with the puppy?
- Can I visit, or at least do a live video call?
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) recommends researching the breed to get a sense of a fair market price, so an unusually low price stands out.
Why Very Cheap Shih Tzu Listings Are a Red Flag
Scammers use low prices as bait
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns that scammers post fake puppy ads, sometimes advertising purebred puppies for a few hundred dollars when they often cost thousands. Once you pay, the puppy may never arrive, and may not even exist.
The BBB lists "popular breeds available for incredibly low prices" as a top pet-scam red flag. It also cautions that if a purebred dog is advertised for free or at a deep discount, it could be a fraudulent offer.
The "extra fees" trap
According to the BBB, pet scammers often keep asking for more money: extra charges for cages, vaccinations or shipping, sometimes with pressure that the animal will be harmed if you don't pay. The BBB's 2025 update reported a median loss of $600 from pet scams reported to BBB Scam Tracker through September 2025.
How you're asked to pay matters
The FTC says only scammers insist you pay with gift cards, a payment app, cryptocurrency or a wire transfer service, because it's hard to get that money back. The BBB gives the same warning. A good rule with any seller: use a traceable payment method and keep your receipts, and never send gift cards, wire transfers or payment-app money to a stranger you haven't met.
No health testing behind the price
Not every inexpensive puppy is a scam. But real costs go into raising puppies responsibly. The American Kennel Club (AKC) says responsible breeders screen for health issues and that both parents should be tested. A study comparing online puppy ads with AKC parent club breeders found the parent club breeders were more likely to do breed-specific health testing, and their puppies cost more on average.
Other Puppy Scam Warning Signs
The FTC and BBB both point to these signs:
- No visit or video call. Legitimate breeders encourage an in-person or video visit, according to the FTC.
- Recycled photos. Do a reverse image search. If the same puppy photos show up on other websites, BBB says it's likely a fraud.
- Pressure to act fast. The FTC notes scammers push you to pay before the puppy "goes to another home."
- Shipping only. BBB advises against buying a pet you can't visit before you pay and pick up yourself.
If you think you've found a scam, report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or BBB Scam Tracker.
Why Sherman's AKC Shih Tzu Puppies Are $1,600
We want our price to be simple and fair. Our AKC registered puppies are $1,600. Here's what that includes:
- AKC registration. We're an AKC and CKC registered breeder. The puppies available right now are AKC registered.
- DNA testing. Our dogs are DNA tested.
- A health guarantee. Every puppy comes with one, and we'll go over it with you.
- Home raised. Our puppies are raised in our home in Niota, Tennessee, and handled every day.
- Meeting in person. You can visit by appointment, or start with a FaceTime call or text.
How payment works
- A deposit holds your puppy.
- The final payment is due at pickup, when you meet your puppy and take it home in person.
We never ship puppies. Pickup is in person only, so you'll always see your puppy before you finish paying.
Budget for More Than the Puppy
The purchase price is only the start. Plan for vet visits, puppy food, a crate, toys, and grooming. That long Shih Tzu coat needs regular brushing, and many owners use a professional groomer. Our guide Is a Shih Tzu Right for Your Family? covers grooming and health basics, and Shih Tzu Puppy Care 101 walks through feeding and potty training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find a Shih Tzu puppy for under $300?
The FTC warns that scammers often advertise purebred puppies for a few hundred dollars. If a price seems far below what other breeders charge, be very careful, and never pay before you can see the puppy.
How much are Sherman's Shih Tzu puppies?
Our AKC registered puppies are $1,600. A deposit holds your puppy, and the final payment is due at pickup.
Why do registered puppies cost more?
Responsible breeding has real costs, including health testing of the parents, according to the AKC. Our price reflects AKC registration, DNA testing, a health guarantee, and puppies raised in our home.
Do you ship puppies?
No. Our puppies are never shipped. Pickup is in person only.
What payment methods should I avoid with any seller?
Use a traceable payment method. The FTC and BBB warn against sending gift cards, wire transfers, payment-app money or cryptocurrency to a seller you haven't met.
Talk With Us About Our Puppies
Have questions about pricing or what's included? Call or text Shannon at 423-920-3750. Visits in Niota, TN are by appointment Monday through Saturday 9 AM to 8 PM, and Sunday 12 PM to 5 PM. We welcome families from Athens, Knoxville, Chattanooga, Nashville, Atlanta and Asheville.