Updated 2026-09-06 · Prices in GBP · Recall feed checked daily
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Home Breeds Shih Tzu
🇬🇧 United Kingdom · small breed

Shih Tzu: vet costs & insurance

Risk score 1.10× the average dog. Here is what that means in GBP.

£34/motypical starter premium
£11,305estimated lifetime vet spend
£4,640worst single bill modelled
Shih TzuInsurance recommended
Conditions

What Shih Tzus get treated for

Condition / procedureUnited Kingdom rangeInsurance
Dental Cleaning with Extractions£870–£2,030covered
Ear Infection Treatment£85–£205covered
Skin Allergy Workup£175–£520covered
Verdict

Insurance recommended

Average-to-elevated risk. Insurance is a reasonable default unless you keep a large emergency fund.

Run the calculator for a Shih Tzu

ManyPets

Lifetime cover without age penalties

Lifetime cover up to £15,000 a year, no co-payments for older dogs on core plans.

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Petplan

Ongoing conditions

The UK's biggest pet insurer; Covered For Life plans renew cover for ongoing conditions every year.

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Disclosure: some links are referral links. They never change your price. We list insurers we would consider ourselves, not whoever pays most.

FAQ

Questions

How much does a Shih Tzu cost at the vet over its life?

Around £11,305 in routine care plus a realistic share of breed-typical conditions, at 2026 British prices.

How much is pet insurance for a Shih Tzu?

Starter premiums run about £27–£44 a month for a puppy, rising with age and city.

Is pet insurance worth it for a Shih Tzu?

Insurance recommended. The breed's risk score is 1.10× average, and the single worst bill we model is £4,640.

Similar risk

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