Miniature Schnauzer vs Shih Tzu Vet Costs
Miniature Schnauzer owners spend $430-$1,100/yr at the vet. Shih Tzu: $380-$900/yr. That's a $125/yr gap in average costs. Here's where the money goes.
Miniature Schnauzer
$7,000-$16,500
lifetime vet costs (14 yrs)
moderate health risk
Lifetime Gap
$0
Shih Tzu costs less
Shih Tzu
$7,000-$16,500
lifetime vet costs (14 yrs)
moderate health risk
Vet Cost Breakdown
| Category | Miniature Schnauzer | Shih Tzu | Lower Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Vet Cost (avg) | $765/yr | $640/yr | Shih Tzu |
| Annual Range | $430-$1,100 | $380-$900 | - |
| Preventive Care | $320/yr | $280/yr | Shih Tzu |
| Emergency Risk Budget | $420/yr | $300/yr | Shih Tzu |
| Pet Insurance | $32-$65/mo | $25-$50/mo | Shih Tzu |
| Spay/Neuter | $175-$400 | $150-$350 | Shih Tzu |
| Lifetime Vet Cost | $7,000-$16,500 | $7,000-$16,500 | Shih Tzu |
Miniature Schnauzer Health Risks
moderate risk · small, 11-20 lbs · 14-year lifespan · 2-3 visits/year average
- Hyperlipidemia (high triglycerides) (25-35%) $100-$600
- Pancreatitis (15-20%) $500-$3,000
- Bladder stones (20-25%) $800-$3,000
- Myotonia congenita (1-3%) $100-$1,000
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
Miniature Schnauzer
- Lipid panel (blood work) $80-$200
- Urinalysis + bladder check $60-$150
- Dental cleaning $300-$700
- Wellness exam + vaccines $130-$280
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?
Miniature Schnauzer
$32-$65/mo ($384-$780/yr)
moderate risk. Worth it if you get coverage before age 2, when premiums are lowest.
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.