Compare pet insurance estimates for your Shih Tzu from Australia's leading providers. Shih Tzus are a beloved small companion breed across Australia - find the right cover for common conditions like brachycephalic airway syndrome, eye problems, and patellar luxation.
The Shih Tzu is one of Australia's most popular small companion breeds, registered with Dogs Australia (ANKC) under the Toy group. Their affectionate temperament, manageable size, and adaptability to apartment living make them a favourite with Australian families, older owners, and those looking for a loyal lap dog.
From an insurance perspective, Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic (flat-faced) breed, which means they have a distinct health profile that insurers take into account. Their shortened airways, prominent eyes, and compact skeletal structure predispose them to conditions including brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), eye injuries, patellar luxation, and dental disease. While individual treatment costs tend to be lower than for large breeds, the frequency of health issues can add up over a Shih Tzu's long lifespan.
As a small breed (4 - 7 kg), Shih Tzus generally have lower per-procedure veterinary costs compared to larger breeds. However, Australian Shih Tzu owners should be particularly aware of heat stress risks - brachycephalic breeds are more susceptible to heatstroke in Australia's warm climate, and this can be a medical emergency.
Major Australian pet insurance providers - including Bow Wow Meow, RSPCA Pet Insurance, Budget Direct Pet, and Medibank Pet Insurance - offer cover for Shih Tzus. Most policies are underwritten by PetSure. Premiums vary depending on your dog's age, your location, and the level of cover you choose. See our full Australian pet insurance comparison for more.
Shih Tzus are predisposed to several breed-specific conditions, particularly those related to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) anatomy. Understanding these can help you choose appropriate cover.
| Condition | Likelihood | Typical Treatment Cost | Insurance Coverage Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) | High | Covered under most comprehensive plans as a breed-related condition. Some insurers may have specific waiting periods or exclusions for brachycephalic conditions. Corrective surgery (soft palate resection, nares widening) is typically covered if not pre-existing. | |
| Eye Proptosis (Eye Displacement) | Moderate - High | Covered under comprehensive and most mid-tier plans as an emergency/accident condition. Shih Tzus' shallow eye sockets make them vulnerable to eye proptosis from relatively minor trauma. Immediate veterinary treatment is essential. | |
| Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye) | Moderate - High | Covered under comprehensive plans. Requires lifelong medication (cyclosporine eye drops), so ongoing treatment costs accumulate. May be classified as a chronic condition with annual sub-limits on some policies. | |
| Patellar Luxation | High | Covered under comprehensive plans as a hereditary/congenital condition. Some insurers require a waiting period of 6 months. If one knee is affected before policy start, the other may also be excluded by some providers. | |
| Heatstroke | Moderate - High (Australian climate) | Covered under comprehensive plans. Brachycephalic breeds like Shih Tzus are significantly more susceptible to heatstroke in Australia's warm climate. Emergency treatment with intensive care can be very costly. Prevention through shade and air conditioning is essential. | |
| Ear Infections (Otitis) | High | Covered under most plans including mid-tier. Shih Tzus' floppy, hairy ears restrict airflow and trap moisture. Recurring infections may be classified as chronic. Regular ear cleaning can help reduce frequency. | |
| Dental Disease | Very High | Dental illness cover varies significantly between providers and plan levels. Many mid-tier and accident-only plans exclude dental disease. Shih Tzus are especially prone due to their small jaws and crowded teeth. | |
| Allergies (Skin & Food) | Moderate - High | Covered under comprehensive plans. Allergy testing and ongoing treatment (including medicated shampoos, prescription diets, and immunotherapy) are typically included. May have annual sub-limits for chronic conditions. | |
| Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) | Low - Moderate | Covered under comprehensive plans. While more common in breeds like Dachshunds, Shih Tzus can also develop IVDD. Surgery costs can be significant if disc herniation occurs. | |
| Cataracts | Moderate | Covered under comprehensive plans as a hereditary condition. Pre-existing eye conditions will be excluded. Regular eye checks are worth considering for early detection, particularly as your Shih Tzu ages. |
Disclaimer: Treatment costs shown are indicative estimates based on publicly available Australian veterinary pricing data as of early 2026. Actual costs vary depending on your location, vet practice, severity of the condition, and treatment approach. These figures are not quotes. Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment options. If you've noticed something incorrect, please let us know.
Understanding these factors can help you find the right cover at a competitive price.
Premiums increase as your Shih Tzu ages. Insuring a puppy or young adult (under 3) is typically the most affordable. Some providers have age limits for new policies - commonly 8 or 9 years. Starting cover early also avoids pre-existing condition exclusions.
Any pre-existing conditions at the time of enrolment will be excluded from cover. For Shih Tzus, this is especially relevant for eye conditions, breathing issues, and patellar luxation. Getting cover before issues develop is worth considering.
Vet costs vary across Australia. Sydney and Melbourne tend to have higher veterinary fees than regional centres. Access to specialist ophthalmology and brachycephalic surgery services may also vary by location. Warmer states increase heatstroke risk.
Choosing a higher excess or lower reimbursement percentage (e.g. 65% instead of 80%) reduces your premium. For Shih Tzus, weigh this against the likelihood of claims for chronic conditions like dental disease and dry eye.
Plans with higher annual limits cost more but provide better protection. While individual Shih Tzu procedures tend to cost less than large-breed surgeries, multiple conditions in a single year can add up quickly.
Comprehensive cover costs more than accident-only but covers the breed-specific illness conditions Shih Tzus are most prone to. The gap between comprehensive and accident-only is typically $30 - $60/month for a Shih Tzu.
Practical ways to manage your Shih Tzu's insurance and health costs.
Getting cover while your Shih Tzu is young and healthy means fewer pre-existing condition exclusions. Eye conditions and patellar luxation can develop early in life, so insuring your puppy from 8 weeks is worth considering.
Not all plans cover brachycephalic-related conditions the same way. Some insurers may have specific exclusions or waiting periods for BOAS and related airway conditions. Check the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) carefully to ensure your Shih Tzu's flat-faced anatomy is adequately covered.
Brachycephalic breeds like Shih Tzus are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke in Australia's warm climate. Avoid exercise during hot parts of the day, ensure access to shade and water, and consider air conditioning. Heatstroke treatment can cost $3,000 - $10,000+ in emergency vet bills.
Dental disease is extremely common in Shih Tzus due to their small jaws and crowded teeth. Regular brushing, dental chews, and professional cleaning can help reduce the need for costly extractions. Check that your insurance plan includes dental illness cover.
Premiums for the same Shih Tzu can vary significantly between providers for similar cover. Get at least 3 estimates and compare not just price but annual limits, excess amounts, reimbursement percentages, and waiting periods. Use insurancecompared.com.au to see options side by side.
As your Shih Tzu ages, your insurance needs may change. Review your cover level, excess, and annual limit each year. Shih Tzus tend to develop more chronic conditions in their senior years (8+), so adjusting your cover may be worthwhile.
Australia's main pet insurance providers all cover Shih Tzus. Compare options and get estimates.
One of Australia's most recognised pet insurance brands. Offers comprehensive, accident-illness, and accident-only plans for Shih Tzus. Known for GapOnly claims at participating vets and straightforward online management.
Pet insurance offered in partnership with RSPCA Australia. A portion of the first premium goes to RSPCA animal welfare programs. Covers Shih Tzus across all plan levels. Underwritten by PetSure.
Part of the Budget Direct group known for competitive pricing. Offers pet insurance with flexible cover options for Shih Tzus. Underwritten by Auto & General.
Backed by Medibank, one of Australia's largest health insurers. Offers pet insurance with a focus on simplicity and value. Well-suited for Shih Tzu owners wanting a recognised Australian brand.
Disclaimer: Features, pricing, and cover options may change. Always verify details directly with the provider before purchasing. If you've noticed something incorrect, please let us know.
Common questions about insuring your Shih Tzu in Australia.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or veterinary advice. While we strive for accuracy, insurance products, pricing, and terms change regularly. Health condition information is general in nature and may not apply to your specific dog. Always verify details directly with the provider before purchasing, and consult your veterinarian for health-related concerns. For more information, visit the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) MoneySmart.
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