Best Pet Insurance for Shih Tzus
The Shih Tzu — whose name translates to 'lion dog' — is one of the most ancient and beloved toy breeds, originally bred as a palace companion in China. Today's Shih Tzus are cheerful, outgoing, and adaptable, equally comfortable in city apartments or suburban homes. They're relatively low-energy (though they enjoy short walks) and known for their affectionate, sociable personalities. Their long, luxurious coat requires dedicated grooming. The breed's wide lifespan range (10–18 years) reflects genuine variation — well-cared-for Shih Tzus often reach their mid-teens. Their main health vulnerabilities center on their distinctive flat face and large eyes, both of which require proactive management.
Best Pet Insurance for Shih Tzus (Ranked)
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Score Breakdown
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Shih Tzu Health Risks & Conditions
Understanding your Shih Tzu's specific health risks helps you choose the right coverage.
Eye Conditions (Corneal Ulcers, Proptosis, Distichiasis)
very high riskShih Tzus' large, prominent eyes are their most medically vulnerable feature. Corneal ulcers are extremely common ($300–$800 per episode). Proptosis (eye popping out of socket) is an emergency requiring immediate veterinary care ($500–$2,000). Distichiasis (extra eyelashes irritating the cornea) requires surgical removal ($500–$1,500). All Shih Tzu owners should learn emergency eye first aid. Regular eye cleaning with sterile saline and prompt attention to any squinting or discharge is essential.
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
high riskAs a flat-faced breed, Shih Tzus commonly have elongated soft palates, narrowed nostrils, and tracheal hypoplasia. Respiratory distress, heat intolerance, and exercise limitation result. Surgical correction ($1,000–$3,500) significantly improves quality of life. Many insurers apply exclusions or waiting periods for BOAS in brachycephalic breeds — verify coverage specifically.
Patellar Luxation
high riskPatellar luxation is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in toy breeds, and Shih Tzus are no exception. Grades 3–4 require surgical correction ($1,500–$4,500 per knee). Many Shih Tzus develop the condition bilaterally. Early intervention prevents secondary arthritis and preserves normal gait.
Dental Disease
very high riskThe Shih Tzu's small jaw creates extreme dental crowding, making professional dental cleanings under anesthesia necessary every 12–18 months ($400–$800). Tooth extractions are common. Without regular dental care, periodontal disease can lead to tooth root abscesses, jaw bone loss, and chronic pain. Daily tooth brushing reduces but does not eliminate the need for professional cleanings.
Hip Dysplasia
moderate riskWhile less common than in large breeds, hip dysplasia does affect Shih Tzus. Small-breed hip dysplasia is typically managed medically with NSAIDs ($30–$80/month) and joint supplements ($30–$60/month). Surgical correction via FHO ($1,500–$3,000) may be needed for severe cases.
What to Look for in Shih Tzu Pet Insurance
Shih Tzus benefit from insurance covering their eye, respiratory, and dental vulnerabilities. Eye emergency coverage is particularly important — corneal ulcers and proptosis are acute emergencies with immediate costs. Verify that BOAS is covered (not excluded as a pre-existing brachycephalic condition). Dental illness coverage (separate from dental accidents) is valuable. Top picks: Embrace (dental illness add-on available, eye coverage included), Spot (low deductibles work well for frequent small claims), Nationwide (offers wellness riders for dental cleanings).
Shih Tzu Quick Stats
Common Shih Tzu Health Conditions
All Providers Ranked for Shih Tzus
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Excellent match for Shih Tzus. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Good option for Shih Tzus with solid coverage and reasonable pricing.
Covers your breed's key risks:
Consider alternatives with stronger hereditary condition coverage for Shih Tzus.
Consider alternatives with stronger hereditary condition coverage for Shih Tzus.