Having a Shih Tzu can bring immense joy to your life, but it also comes with a range of expenses, from veterinary bills to accidents.
Shih Tzus are prone to health issues such as eye problems and dental issues, which can be costly to treat.
To ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy, it's essential to have the right insurance coverage.
The average cost of a Shih Tzu's veterinary bills can range from $500 to $1,000 per year, depending on the size and age of your pet.
Shih Tzu Insurance Basics
Shih Tzu insurance is a great way to prepare for the unexpected. Insurance for a Shih Tzu may range from $25 to $40 per month.
The cost of insurance can vary based on factors like age, health, and where you live. This means that younger, healthier Shih Tzus may pay less for insurance than older or sicker ones.
To give you a better idea of what to expect, here's a rough estimate of the monthly insurance cost for a Shih Tzu: $25 to $40.
On a similar theme: Pug Dog Insurance
Health Risks and Concerns
Shih tzus are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain health issues. One of the most common is Brachycephalic Syndrome, which is caused by their flat faces.
Their eyes are also a concern, as they can be prone to dry eye, incomplete eyelid closure, and other eye problems. This is because their tear gland doesn't produce enough tears to keep their eyes wet.
Shih tzus are also at risk for hip dysplasia, a common joint problem. Regular vet visits can help detect this issue early on.
Eye issues are a big concern for shih tzus, and dry eye is a possible condition that can occur. Treatment for dry eye is simple, but it's a lifelong commitment.
Shih tzus can also develop patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap slips out of place. This can be painful for your dog and may require surgery.
Some shih tzus may be born with renal dysplasia, a condition where the kidneys don't develop properly. This can lead to kidney disease and other health issues.
It's essential to keep up with regular vet visits to prevent and detect these issues early on. This can help ensure your shih tzu lives a long and healthy life.
Discover more: Shih Tzu Health
Insurance Options and Providers
When choosing a pet insurance company for your Shih Tzu, it's essential to consider the fine-print and potential exclusions in the policy. This is because some policies may not cover your Shih Tzu's specific needs, leaving you without coverage when you need it most.
Pawlicy Advisor scans policies for Shih Tzu-specific exclusions hidden in the fine-print to help you make an informed decision. This is a crucial step in choosing the right provider for you and your pup.
The cost of pet insurance can vary significantly depending on your dog's breed, age, location, and more. This means that the policy that looks cheapest today might not be the best value in the long run.
Pawlicy Advisor provides a personalized "Coverage Score" and "Lifetime Value Score" for hundreds of policy variations from top pet health insurance companies. This helps you compare policies and make a more informed decision.
Here are the key features of Pawlicy Advisor's marketplace:
- Coverage Score: compares the kinds of coverage offered with other insurance offerings
- Lifetime Value Score: calculates how much each plan is expected to cost over your dog's lifetime
All quotes from Pawlicy Advisor are pulled in real-time, ensuring you get the best price with no hidden fees.
Shih Tzu Care and Lifestyle
Shih Tzus are small in size with long, flowing hair, making them a low-maintenance pet in terms of grooming.
They are an ancient breed featured in paintings as far back as the seventh century, originating from Tibet.
Their name translates to “Lion Dog,” likely due to their silky hair.
Related reading: Shih Tzu No Fur
Puppy Cost
A Shih Tzu puppy's insurance can cost between $15 to $695 per month, depending on your location and the age of your puppy.
If you live in New York City, NY, you can expect to pay between $27 to $695 per month for a 6-month-old Shih Tzu puppy, while in Thomasville, AL, the cost is between $15 to $375 per month.
In Beverly Hills, CA, the monthly cost ranges from $25 to $415 for a 6-month-old Shih Tzu puppy.
Here's a breakdown of the monthly costs for different regions:
Happy, Healthy Life
Shih Tzus are an ancient breed that originated in Tibet, and their name translates to "Lion Dog" due to their silky hair.
They are small in size with long, flowing hair, and their DNA shares more with wolves than most dog breeds.
To prevent matting and tangles, long-haired Shih Tzus need to be brushed daily.
Shih Tzus are relatively easy to train, especially if you use positive reinforcement and don't give in to their begging eyes.
Their long, double-layered coat usually grows past their feet, and they shed very little.
Regular grooming is essential, including cleaning their teeth and ears, and trimming their nails on a regular basis.
The cost of caring for a Shih Tzu can range from $17,910 to $133,355 over their lifetime.
Pet Ownership and Reviews
If you're considering getting a Shih Tzu, it's essential to research pet insurance options to ensure your furry friend stays healthy and happy.
There are numerous pet insurance providers to choose from, but some popular options include AKC Pet Insurance, ASPCA Pet Insurance, and Embrace Pet Insurance, which all offer comprehensive coverage for your pet.
Some pet insurance providers, like Nationwide Pet Insurance and Trupanion Pet Insurance, also offer additional benefits such as wellness coverage and 24/7 customer support.
Here's a list of some popular pet insurance providers to consider:
Remember to research each provider's policies and benefits to find the best fit for you and your Shih Tzu.
US Pet Reviews
US Pet Reviews can be overwhelming, but understanding what to look for can make all the difference. Shih Tzus, for example, have grooming needs that require regular attention to maintain their luxurious coat.
Grooming needs can be a challenge, especially for those new to pet ownership. Their luxurious coat requires a little TLC to maintain that shine, so expect to keep up with regular grooming for your Shih Tzu.
Some pet insurance reviews to consider include AKC Pet Insurance, ASPCA Pet Insurance, and Embrace Pet Insurance. These insurance providers have been reviewed by many pet owners and can offer valuable insights into their services.
Check this out: Shih Tzu Grooming
If you're considering a Shih Tzu, be aware that they can be stubborn during training, so patience is key. This breed can be challenging to train, but with the right approach, they can learn to behave.
Here are some popular pet insurance providers to consider:
- AKC Pet Insurance
- ASPCA Pet Insurance
- Embrace Pet Insurance
- Fetch Pet Insurance
- Figo Pet Insurance
- Hartville Pet Insurance
- Healthy Paws Pet Insurance
- Lemonade Pet Insurance
- ManyPets Pet Insurance
- MetLife Pet Insurance
- Nationwide Pet Insurance
- Pet Assure Pet Insurance
- PetPartners Pet Insurance
- Pets Best Pet Insurance
- Prudent Pet Pet Insurance
- Pumpkin Pet Insurance
- Spot Pet Insurance
- Trupanion Pet Insurance
Low activity levels are another aspect to consider when bringing a Shih Tzu into your home. They're happy to play, but don't expect them to go on long hikes or runs, as they have relatively moderate exercise needs.
Is Pet Worth It?
Pet insurance can be a lifesaver for pet owners who can't afford unexpected vet bills. For pure breeds like Shih Tzus, genetic health issues are common, and the cost of treatment can be steep.
A $5,000 veterinary bill is a daunting prospect for most pet owners. In fact, 4 out of 5 pet parents can't afford to pay such a bill out-of-pocket.
Pet insurance can help mitigate this risk by reimbursing 70% to 90% of the vet bill, depending on the plan. This way, you can ensure your pet gets the care they need without breaking the bank.
Doing the right thing for your pet shouldn't be restricted by costs. With pet insurance, you can prioritize your pet's health and well-being without worrying about the financial implications.
Sources
- Top Shih Tzu Pet Insurance Plans (pawlicy.com)
- Shih Tzu - Dog Breed Guide - Spot Pet Insurance (spotpet.com)
- Shih Tzus: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (figopetinsurance.com)
- https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/brachycephalic-airway-syndrome-in-dogs (vcahospitals.com)
- Shih Tzu dog breed profile (fetchpet.com)
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