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Shih Tzu with a top knot sitting on a couch
small Toy 5/10 — Moderate Risk

Shih Tzu

Monthly $18–$38
Risk Score 5/10
Size small
AffectionatePlayfulOutgoingLoyal
View Insurance Costs Compare Breeds

Shih Tzu at a Glance

Breed Characteristics

Lifespan

10–18 years

Weight

9–16 lbs

Height

9–10.5 inches

Exercise Needs

low

Grooming Needs

high

Trainability

moderate

Good with Kids

Yes

Good with Other Dogs

Yes

Apartment Friendly

Yes

Health Risks & Common Conditions

5 /10
Shih Tzu Health Risk Score

Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome

Moderate

Short snout causes breathing difficulties, snoring, and overheating risk.

Avg. Treatment: $3,500

Eye Problems (Proptosis, Corneal Ulcers)

High

Prominent eyes are prone to injury, ulcers, and dry eye conditions.

Avg. Treatment: $2,000

Ear Infections

High

Floppy, hairy ears trap moisture and debris, leading to chronic ear infections.

Avg. Treatment: $500

Dental Disease

High

Small jaw and crowded teeth make periodontal disease very common in this breed.

Avg. Treatment: $800

Recommended Genetic Tests

  • Ophthalmologist Evaluation
  • Patella Evaluation
  • Thyroid Evaluation

Insurance Costs for Shih Tzu

Monthly Cost

$18–$38

Avg. Annual Claim

$650

Claim Frequency

average

Suggested Deductible

$250

Coverage Highlights

Eye condition coverage is important Dental illness coverage recommended Respiratory condition coverage for brachycephalic issues

Insurance Provider Comparison

Compare coverage, costs, and ratings from top pet insurance providers

Best Overall
L

Lemonade

4.5

Monthly Premium

$20 - $80

Deductible $100, $250, $500
Reimbursement 70%, 80%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage Covered
  • Fast claims processing via app
  • Customizable coverage plans
  • Affordable base premiums
  • Preventive care add-on available
  • No exam fee coverage on base plan
  • Limited availability in some states
  • Newer company with less track record
Get a Free Quote from Lemonade
Highest Rated
H

Healthy Paws

4.7

Monthly Premium

$25 - $90

Deductible $100, $250, $500, $750
Reimbursement 70%, 80%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage Covered
  • Unlimited annual and lifetime benefits
  • No caps on claim payouts
  • Fast claim processing (2-3 days average)
  • Covers hereditary and congenital conditions
  • No routine or preventive care coverage
  • No dental coverage
  • Longer waiting period for accidents than competitors
Get a Free Quote from Healthy Paws
Best for Comprehensive Coverage
E

Embrace

4.6

Monthly Premium

$25 - $85

Deductible $200, $300, $500, $750, $1000
Reimbursement 70%, 80%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage Covered
  • Diminishing deductible (decreases $50/year with no claims)
  • Covers exam fees
  • Dental illness coverage included
  • Wellness Rewards add-on for routine care
  • Annual limits (no unlimited option)
  • Premiums can increase with age
  • Orthopedic conditions have 6-month waiting period
Get a Free Quote from Embrace
Best for Exotic Pets
N

Nationwide

4.2

Monthly Premium

$30 - $100

Deductible $250, $500, $750
Reimbursement 50%, 70%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage Covered
  • Whole Pet plan covers wellness and illness
  • Only major insurer covering exotic pets
  • Employer-sponsored plans available
  • Long-established company since 1982
  • Higher premiums than competitors
  • Slower claims processing
  • Benefit schedule plans pay less than expected
  • 14-day waiting period for accidents
Get a Free Quote from Nationwide
Best for Large Breeds
T

Trupanion

4.5

Monthly Premium

$30 - $120

Deductible $0, $100, $200, $500, $1000
Reimbursement 90%
Hereditary Coverage Covered
  • 90% reimbursement on all plans
  • No payout limits per incident or lifetime
  • Direct vet payment option at many clinics
  • Covers hereditary and congenital conditions from day one
  • Only 90% reimbursement option (no 70% or 80%)
  • No wellness or routine care coverage
  • 30-day waiting period for illnesses
  • Higher premiums overall
Get a Free Quote from Trupanion
Best Value
P

Pets Best

4.4

Monthly Premium

$18 - $75

Deductible $50, $100, $200, $250, $500
Reimbursement 70%, 80%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage Covered
  • Very affordable base premiums
  • Low deductible options starting at $50
  • Fast claims processing (5 days average)
  • BestWellness plan for routine care add-on
  • No dental coverage
  • Customer service can be slow
  • Lower annual limits on budget plans
  • Premium increases with age can be significant
Get a Free Quote from Pets Best

Protect Your Shih Tzu Today

With a moderate health risk profile, having the right insurance plan can save you thousands in unexpected vet bills.

Without Insurance

$1,596 /year estimated
  • Full cost of emergencies out of pocket
  • Difficult financial decisions during crises
  • Unpredictable veterinary expenses
Recommended

With Insurance

$456 /year estimated
  • Up to 90% of vet bills covered
  • Peace of mind for emergencies
  • Predictable monthly expenses
Get Your Free Quote

Plans from as low as $18/month

Compare quotes from top providers: Lemonade Healthy Paws Embrace Trupanion Pets Best View All →
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Frequently Asked Questions About Shih Tzu Insurance

Pet insurance for a Shih Tzu typically costs $18-$38 per month. Their moderate health risk profile makes them affordable to insure.
Shih Tzus commonly experience eye problems, breathing difficulties from their flat face, chronic ear infections, and dental disease.
Eye condition coverage and dental coverage are especially important for Shih Tzus. Their prominent eyes are vulnerable to injury, and dental disease is very common in this breed.