Shih Tzu Vet Costs: What You'll Actually Pay
$380 to $900 per year at the vet. Over a 14-year lifespan, that's $7,000 to $16,500 total. 2-3 visits/year average.
Annual Vet Cost Breakdown
Where your Shih Tzu vet budget actually goes.
Is pet insurance worth it for a Shih Tzu?
Shih Tzu vet bills run $380-$900/year. Insurance costs $25-$50/month. Moderate health risk breed. We ran the numbers.
See the Shih Tzu insurance ROI breakdownShih Tzu Health Issues: What to Watch For
Eye problems (proptosis, ulcers, dry eye)
15-25% of breedThose big, protruding eyes are vulnerable. Corneal ulcers from trauma, dry eye (KCS), and even eye proptosis (eye pops out of socket) from rough handling or play.
Dental disease
25-35% of breedSmall mouth, crowded teeth, early decay. Aggressive home dental care and annual professional cleanings are the norm.
Patellar luxation
10-15% of breedCommon toy breed kneecap issue. Mild cases managed conservatively; surgery for severe grades.
Brachycephalic airway issues
10-20% of breedShih Tzus have a flat face, though milder than Bulldogs. Some need nostril widening surgery. Heat sensitivity is real but less extreme.
Ear infections
15-20% of breedHairy ear canals trap moisture and debris. Regular cleaning and plucking help, but infections still happen.
Recommended Procedures & Screenings
| Procedure | Frequency | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Eye exam | Annual | $50-$150 |
| Dental cleaning | Annual | $350-$700 |
| Patellar evaluation | Annual | $50-$100 |
| Ear cleaning/treatment | Monthly | $20-$80 |
| Wellness exam + vaccines | Annual | $130-$260 |
The Bottom Line on Shih Tzu Vet Bills
Shih Tzus are a moderate-cost breed with death by a thousand paper cuts. No single catastrophic condition, but the eyes, teeth, ears, and knees all need ongoing attention. The 14-year lifespan means a lot of dental cleanings add up. Eye protection is underrated — a scratched cornea at the dog park is a common $500 vet visit.