Dog Breeds / Shih Tzu
Best Pet Insurance for Shih Tzus (2026)
Shih Tzus are affectionate lap dogs with moderate health concerns. Their bulging eyes are prone to injury, their flat faces can cause breathing issues, and their small mouths lead to dental problems. Good insurance coverage helps manage these risks.
See Top Picks →🏆 Our Top Picks for Shih Tzus
Embrace
Best overall (eye conditions, dental covered)
Pumpkin
Best dental coverage
Healthy Paws
Best unlimited coverage
Why Shih Tzus Need Insurance
Shih Tzus' prominent eyes are easily injured, sometimes requiring expensive surgery. Breathing issues and dental disease add to their care costs. Insurance provides a safety net for these common problems.
Common Health Issues & Costs
| Condition | What It Is | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Eye Problems | Ulcers, proptosis, dry eye | $500 - $3,000 |
| Brachycephalic Syndrome | Breathing difficulties | $1,500 - $4,000 |
| Dental Disease | Crowding, decay, extractions | $500 - $2,000 |
| Hip Dysplasia | Joint malformation | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Ear Infections | Chronic infections | $100 - $300/episode |
| IVDD | Spinal disc problems | $3,000 - $8,000 |
What to Look For in Shih Tzu Insurance
✓ Must-Have Coverage
- Eye injury and disease coverage — Their bulging eyes are vulnerable
- Respiratory condition coverage — Flat face causes breathing issues
- Dental illness coverage — Small mouths mean dental problems
- No breed-specific exclusions
✗ Red Flags to Avoid
- Eye condition exclusions
- Brachycephalic condition exclusions
- Dental exclusions
- Pre-existing condition traps for eye issues
Best Insurance Providers for Shih Tzus
Embrace
Best Overall for Shih Tzus
$35-55/mo
estimated monthly
Embrace covers eye conditions, dental illness, and hereditary conditions. For a breed with multiple health concerns, comprehensive coverage is key.
Pros
- Covers eye conditions
- Covers dental illness
- Covers hereditary conditions
- Wellness option available
Cons
- Annual limits apply
- Wellness costs extra
Pumpkin
Best Dental Coverage
$32-50/mo
estimated monthly
Pumpkin includes dental illness coverage standard—important for Shih Tzus with their small, crowded mouths prone to decay and gum disease.
Pros
- Dental illness included
- 90% reimbursement available
- Covers hereditary conditions
- No breed restrictions
Cons
- Newer company
- Annual limits apply
Healthy Paws
Best Unlimited Coverage
$35-55/mo
estimated monthly
If your Shih Tzu needs multiple surgeries (eyes, breathing, spine), unlimited coverage ensures you never hit a cap.
Pros
- No annual or lifetime limits
- Covers eye conditions
- Fast claims processing
- No per-incident caps
Cons
- No dental illness coverage
- No wellness option
How Much Does Shih Tzu Insurance Cost?
Shih Tzus have moderate insurance costs. Here's what to expect:
Puppy (8 weeks - 1 year)
$25 - $40/month
Adult (1-7 years)
$32 - $60/month
Senior (8+ years)
$55 - $95+/month
* Estimates based on average rates. Actual cost depends on your location, chosen deductible, reimbursement level, and coverage limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Shih Tzus have so many eye problems?
Shih Tzus have shallow eye sockets causing their eyes to bulge, making them vulnerable to scratches, ulcers, and proptosis (eye popping out). Eye injuries are common and often require veterinary care.
Is pet insurance worth it for a Shih Tzu?
Yes. Between eye issues, potential breathing problems, and dental disease, Shih Tzus often need veterinary care. Insurance helps manage costs for this affectionate but health-prone breed.
Do Shih Tzus have breathing problems like Bulldogs?
Shih Tzus are brachycephalic (flat-faced) and can have breathing issues, though typically less severe than Bulldogs. Some may need surgery to correct elongated soft palates or narrow nostrils.
Should I get dental coverage for my Shih Tzu?
Yes, dental coverage is valuable for Shih Tzus. Their small mouths lead to crowded teeth and decay. Look for policies covering dental illness (infections, extractions), not just accidents.
Are Shih Tzus expensive to insure?
Shih Tzus have moderate insurance costs—typically $35-60/month. They're less expensive than large breeds or breeds with severe health issues, but still need comprehensive coverage.
Protect Your Shih Tzu
Protect your Shih Tzu's eyes, teeth, and overall health. Compare insurance quotes and find the right coverage today.
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