Poodle (Standard) vs Shih Tzu Vet Costs
Poodle (Standard) owners spend $450-$1,000/yr at the vet. Shih Tzu: $380-$900/yr. That's a $85/yr gap in average costs. Here's where the money goes.
Poodle (Standard)
$7,800-$16,500
lifetime vet costs (13 yrs)
moderate health risk
Lifetime Gap
$400
Shih Tzu costs less
Shih Tzu
$7,000-$16,500
lifetime vet costs (14 yrs)
moderate health risk
Vet Cost Breakdown
| Category | Poodle (Standard) | Shih Tzu | Lower Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Vet Cost (avg) | $725/yr | $640/yr | Shih Tzu |
| Annual Range | $450-$1,000 | $380-$900 | - |
| Preventive Care | $350/yr | $280/yr | Shih Tzu |
| Emergency Risk Budget | $350/yr | $300/yr | Shih Tzu |
| Pet Insurance | $35-$65/mo | $25-$50/mo | Shih Tzu |
| Spay/Neuter | $200-$500 | $150-$350 | Shih Tzu |
| Lifetime Vet Cost | $7,800-$16,500 | $7,000-$16,500 | Shih Tzu |
Poodle (Standard) Health Risks
moderate risk · large, 40-70 lbs · 13-year lifespan · 2-3 visits/year average
- Bloat (GDV) (5-7%) $2,000-$7,500
- Addison's disease (2-4%) $200-$500
- Hip dysplasia (8-10%) $1,500-$5,000
- Progressive retinal atrophy (3-5%) $200-$500
- Epilepsy (3-5%) $200-$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
Poodle (Standard)
- Bloat prevention (gastropexy) $400-$1,200
- Dental cleaning $300-$700
- Eye exam (CERF) $50-$150
- Addison's screening $100-$300
- Senior wellness 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?
Poodle (Standard)
$35-$65/mo ($420-$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.