6 Best Shih Tzu Pet Insurance Plans Compared in 2023

Updated on by Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

Enrolling in dog insurance can be an annoyingly confusing process for many dog owners. Between the complicated insurance language and numerous plans to choose from, it can be easy to become overwhelmed and frustrated. However, as a Licensed Insurance Agent and fellow dog owner, my passion is to help other dog owners navigate this process and make enrolling in dog insurance as stress-free as possible. While dog insurance is available to dogs of all breeds, I will tell you everything you need to know about enrolling your Shih Tzu in coverage in this article.  We may receive compensation when you click on the affiliate links below.

Top Shih Tzu Pet Insurance Scored, Ranked & With Cost

Use our below table to quickly compare the best Shih Tzu pet insurance providers. The average monthly specific prices shown are based on a healthy 2-year-old Shih Tzu with a $500 deductible and 90% reimbursement amount who is located in California with a 90210 zip code. Costs may vary based on age, location, and the coverage amount. Prices are accurate as of January 2023 and are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the provider website.

lemonade
4.9
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN COST FOR SHIH TZU

$17.25/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • Lemonade has the best Shih Tzu Pet insurance policy at the most affordable rates
  • Their user experience is world class and it’s easy to get support from their award-winning customer service team
  • Founded in 2015 as a certified B Corp, Lemonade donates unclaimed premium dollars to nonprofit organizations selected by policyholders
pumpkin logo
4.3
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN COST FOR SHIH TZU

$49.18/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$10,000

  • Pumpkin Pet Insurance plans have extensive coverage and they always have a 90% reimbursement rate
  • Pumpkin Pet Insurance plans have no breed or upper age restrictions, and dental illness and hereditary conditions are covered at no extra cost
  • Founded in 2020 and underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company
4.3
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN COST FOR SHIH TZU

$34.64/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with Shih Tzu Pet vets via video chat 24/7
  • They also have an easy-to-use pet records app and real time claims tracker
  • Founded in 2013 and underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company
4.3
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN COST FOR SHIH TZU

$70.91/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

Unlimited

  • Trupanion is the only provider on our list that has an unlimited annual benefit with no payout limits
  • They are unique in that they offer “Vet Direct Pay” instead of reimbursements
  • Founded in 1999 and underwritten by American Pet Insurance Company
4.3
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN COST FOR SHIH TZU

$40.32/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Their “Healthy Pet Deductible” allows your annual deductible to go down by $50 each year that you don’t receive an insurance claim reimbursement
  • Embrace paid 93% of claims in 2019 and their member portal is user-friendly
  • Founded in 2003 and underwritten by American Modern Insurance
4.2
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN COST FOR SHIH TZU

$56.43/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • They offer up to 100% reimbursement with a $20,000 annual maximum benefit for a reasonable fee and have fast reimbursement options
  • Wagmo Wellness plans reimburse you for the routine and preventative care you do for your pets annually
  • Founded in 2017 and underwritten by National Specialty Insurance Company

lemonade
4.9
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN COST FOR SHIH TZU

$17.25/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • Lemonade has the best Shih Tzu Pet insurance policy at the most affordable rates
  • Their user experience is world class and it’s easy to get support from their award-winning customer service team
  • Founded in 2015 as a certified B Corp, Lemonade donates unclaimed premium dollars to nonprofit organizations selected by policyholders

Shih Tzu Pet Insurance FAQs

What is dog insurance? Why should I enroll my Shih Tzu in dog insurance?

Dog insurance is medical insurance coverage for our four-legged friends. Most dog insurance plans work by reimbursing dog owners for expenses incurred from veterinary treatment. To enroll, all you need to do is find a plan that is right for your pup, pay the monthly premium to keep the policy active, and then you can begin requesting reimbursement when needed!

Dog insurance coverage is helpful for Shih Tzus because of the many health problems they are prone to, many of which can be life-threatening. By enrolling in dog insurance coverage, your Shih Tzu will always be able to receive treatment without causing you financial stress.

How old does my puppy need to be to be eligible for dog coverage?

Most dog insurance plans require that puppies (regardless of breed) be at least 8 weeks old in order to be eligible for dog insurance. However, specific age requirements may vary by plan and provider.

What are the most common insurance claims for this breed?

Shih Tzus are prone to developing several health conditions that typically require veterinary treatment. In addition to common bacterial and viral infections that all dogs are prone to, Shih Tzus also frequently experiences liver problems, skeletal issues, dental conditions, and eye problems. The good news is that all of these conditions can be treated, with some requiring surgery.

What is covered by dog insurance?

Most dog insurance plans offer a basic coverage option and a more comprehensive one. Veterinary services required to help treat unexpected illnesses are covered with basic insurance coverage. This may include treatment interventions needed for broken bones and bacterial infections. Additional veterinary services may be covered with comprehensive insurance coverage, including vaccinations, medical imaging, and hospitalizations.

How will I be reimbursed?

To be reimbursed, you first need to make sure that you have met your deductible (if you have one). Then, after a vet treats your Shih Tzu, you should receive a bill from your veterinary clinic, either in the mail or electronically. Once you pay your bill, you can then submit a reimbursement request to your insurance provider, who will then determine how much you will be reimbursed based on your reimbursement rate and your deductible.

Should I enroll in a plan with a higher or lower deductible?

The type of plan that you enroll in is entirely up to you. There is no “right” or “wrong” insurance plan; there are only plans that are “right” for you. One tip is to determine how different plans would fit into your monthly finances. For example, if you believe that lower monthly payments would benefit your finances, then a plan with a higher deductible may be ideal for you.

5 Useful Strategies for Keeping Your Shih Tzu Safe & Healthy

There are numerous health strategies that you can implement into your pup’s daily life to ensure that they live as long and as healthy as possible.

1. Take care of their teeth!

Dental problems are one of the most common chronic health issues among dogs of all breeds, Shih Tzus included. Many dog owners forget to implement regular dental practices into their dog’s routine, which can lead to the break-down of enamel and gum disease. Make sure to brush your Shih Tzus teeth at least twice per week and provide treats and toys that strengthen the teeth.

2. Avoid prolonged exposure to excessive heat

Shih Tzus tend to be sensitive to extreme temperatures, especially when it’s hot. To prevent overheating and heat exhaustion, make sure to prevent long periods of exposure to high temperatures and give them lots of water.

3. Go for a walk daily

Shih Tzus are not the most active of dog breeds, but they still require regular exercise to stay healthy. Even just a short 30 minute walk around the block each day should be sufficient.

4. Proper supervision and boundaries

Shih Tzus can be trained to be well-mannered dogs, but often require consistent boundaries, even as they age. They also can be rascals at times and may need supervision to prevent too much exploring and snooping around.

5. Regular visits to the vet

Since Shih Tzus are prone to so many significant medical conditions, regular vet appointments are a good idea to help monitor emerging conditions and to help prevent new ones from developing.

Conclusion

Veterinary care can be quite expensive, but it is not something that you should have to spend your life’s savings on. To help ensure that your Shih Tzu can always receive the care that they need, consider enrolling in dog insurance right now. Your pup and your wallet will thank you.

Ready to get started? After countless hours of research, we’ve found that Lemonade pet insurance consistently performs the best with the lowest monthly premiums.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology for Shih Tzu

We ranked the best pet insurance policies for Shih Tzu based on a variety of important factors including the following:

  • Average monthly price for a 2-year-old Shih Tzu with a $500 deductible located in the 90210 zip code (Please note: prices will vary greatly based on your location)
  • Coverage and benefits
  • Key policy details including accidents and illnesses, surgeries, annual check-ups, cancer treatment, lab tests, and more
  • AM Best rating of the underwriter
  • Reimbursement percentage
  • Annual benefit amount
  • Technology and user experience
  • Ease of sign up
  • Policy language clarity
  • User reviews

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