How much would a shih tzu?
Call a vet clinic that you are interested in using. Discuss your plans for getting a shih tzu puppy and ask about how much it will cost for the first year of care. If you go in person and tour the hospital, they are much more likely to give you the real cost. I urge you to develop a relationship with the vet of your choice and not use the cheap spay and neuter places. Those places should be reserved for people that get free dogs and don’t have enough money to alter them, not people that spend all of their money on the dog and have no money for care. I am really glad that your parents are having you stop and think about this puppy purchase. It is very important to understand the care and costs involved. I also second the idea of getting a rescue: you will save a dog AND the dog already has shots, is altered, etc.