Golden Retriever vs Shih Tzu Vet Costs
Golden Retriever owners spend $500-$1,200/yr at the vet. Shih Tzu: $380-$900/yr. That's a $210/yr gap in average costs. Here's where the money goes.
Golden Retriever
$7,500-$18,000
lifetime vet costs (11 yrs)
moderate-high health risk
Lifetime Gap
$1,000
Shih Tzu costs less
Shih Tzu
$7,000-$16,500
lifetime vet costs (14 yrs)
moderate health risk
Vet Cost Breakdown
| Category | Golden Retriever | Shih Tzu | Lower Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Vet Cost (avg) | $850/yr | $640/yr | Shih Tzu |
| Annual Range | $500-$1,200 | $380-$900 | - |
| Preventive Care | $375/yr | $280/yr | Shih Tzu |
| Emergency Risk Budget | $500/yr | $300/yr | Shih Tzu |
| Pet Insurance | $40-$75/mo | $25-$50/mo | Shih Tzu |
| Spay/Neuter | $200-$500 | $150-$350 | Shih Tzu |
| Lifetime Vet Cost | $7,500-$18,000 | $7,000-$16,500 | Shih Tzu |
Golden Retriever Health Risks
moderate-high risk · large, 55-75 lbs · 11-year lifespan · 2-4 visits/year average
- Cancer (60%+) $3,000-$15,000
- Hip dysplasia (10-12%) $1,500-$6,000
- Allergies and hot spots (20-25%) $200-$1,500
- Heart disease (SAS) (5-8%) $500-$5,000
- Ear infections (30%+) $100-$300
Shih Tzu Health Risks
moderate risk · small, 9-16 lbs · 14-year lifespan · 2-3 visits/year average
- Eye problems (proptosis, ulcers, dry eye) (15-25%) $300-$3,000
- Dental disease (25-35%) $400-$1,200
- Patellar luxation (10-15%) $1,500-$4,000
- Brachycephalic airway issues (10-20%) $1,000-$4,000
- Ear infections (15-20%) $100-$300
Breed-Specific Procedures
Golden Retriever
- Cancer screening (annual after age 6) $200-$600
- Hip screening X-rays $200-$400
- Ear cleaning/treatment $30-$150
- Dental cleaning $300-$700
- Comprehensive blood panel $150-$350
Shih Tzu
- Eye exam $50-$150
- Dental cleaning $350-$700
- Patellar evaluation $50-$100
- Ear cleaning/treatment $20-$80
- Wellness exam + vaccines $130-$260
Insurance: Is It Worth It?
Golden Retriever
$40-$75/mo ($480-$900/yr)
moderate-high risk. Insurance is close to mandatory for this breed. One surgery can exceed years of premiums.
Shih Tzu
$25-$50/mo ($300-$600/yr)
moderate risk. Worth it if you get coverage before age 2, when premiums are lowest.
Premiums from Nationwide, ASPCA, and Embrace. Accident + illness plans, $500 deductible, 80% reimbursement.