The Shih Tzu is one of the most popular dog breeds in the UK. If you own one or are thinking of getting one, understanding the likely veterinary costs helps you budget effectively and choose the right insurance.

Expected Annual Vet Costs

  • Routine preventative care (vaccinations, flea/worm, health checks): £150–£300
  • Total annual vet costs including illness/injury: £300–£600
  • Pet insurance cost: £22–£40/month
  • Typical lifespan: 10–16 years

Common Health Issues

Eye problems (corneal ulcers due to prominent eyes, dry eye, cataracts), brachycephalic airway issues (milder than Pugs/Frenchies), ear infections, dental disease, skin allergies, and intervertebral disc disease.

Breed-Specific Notes

Regular grooming (£30–£60 every 6–8 weeks) is an additional cost to factor in. Eye care is important — keep facial hair trimmed away from the eyes to reduce irritation and ulcer risk.

Insurance Recommendations

For a Shih Tzu, we recommend:

  • Lifetime cover: This is the most comprehensive type and the best choice for breeds with chronic conditions. It renews your per-condition limit each year
  • Per-condition limit: Aim for at least £5,000–£10,000 per condition. Higher is better for breeds with serious orthopaedic or surgical risks
  • Excess: A higher excess (£200–£300) reduces your monthly premium. Only choose a low excess if you would struggle to pay it in an emergency

Compare pet insurance quotes at sites like MoneySuperMarket, GoCompare, or Compare the Market. Prices vary significantly between insurers for the same breed.

How to Save on Vet Costs

  • Preventative care: Vaccinations, flea/tick treatment, and regular health checks catch problems early when they are cheaper to treat
  • Written prescriptions: Ask your vet for prescriptions and buy medications from online pharmacies (40–70% cheaper)
  • Compare vet prices: Use VetCost to compare consultation and treatment prices at practices near you
  • Weight management: Keeping your dog at a healthy weight reduces the risk of joint problems, diabetes, heart disease, and many other conditions
  • Dental care: Daily tooth brushing prevents expensive dental procedures

Last updated: March 2026. Sources: Breed health surveys, CMA provisional decision (October 2025), VetCost data.