What’s the age of your dog, do they have any pre-existing health conditions, are you looking for lifetime pet insurance cover, do you need a low excess on the policy?

Before we consider policy choices, let’s learn a little more about the wonderful Shih Tzu.

The Shih Tzu is a member of the toy dog group which got its name from the Chinese, meaning “Lion Dog”. However, even though this dog breed is typically associated with China, research shows that the Shih Tzu’s original origins actually date back to the 17th century in the land of Tibet.

Most dog breeds become listed as official members of the American kennel club as far back as the 1800s and into the early 1900s. However, the Shih Tzu was not officially recognized by the AKC until the late 1960′s. That decade dawned an explosion of Shih Tzus as household pets and as its popularity grew, the AKC took notice and registered the breed.

Shih Tzu dogs are known to be a bit on the spunky side, yet extremely friendly and sweet. They are very lovable lapdogs who enjoy playing and running around with their owner. These animals are wonderful house pets and are great with children. In fact, the Shih Tzu scores high on the “friendliness scale” when it comes to other dogs, other pets, and even strangers .

Upkeep And Maintenance of the Shih Tzu

Even though the Shih Tzu is a fairly small dog, it still needs a good dose of daily exercise. A 15 to 20 minute brisk walk on a leash is ideal, yet because it is so small, a good romp around the house from room to room is also an excellent way for the Shih Tzu to get his daily physical requirements.

Like most toy breeds, Shih Tzus are not meant to live outside. These animals are house dogs who cannot stand hot, humid weather. And because of its long, luxurious coat, grooming the Shih Tzu should be done on a daily basis.

Pet Insurance for a Shih Tzu – Health Considerations

Pet insurance for your Shih Tzu should factor in that the breed is generally very healthy and dogs that are in good health have a lifespan of up to 14 or more years. The only major health concerns that seem to be common with this dog breed is CHD. Minor concerns include PRA, renal dysplasia, otitis externa, patellar luxation, KCS, entropion, portacaval shunt, and inguinal hernia.

Veterinarians recommend that all Shih Tzu dogs be specifically tested for hip dysplasia, eye problems, and DNA for renal dysplasia. Occasionally, the following health problems may occur: dental problems and cataracts.

When seeking the best policy for your Shih Tzu, remember to always read the smallprint, try to work with companies who specialise in insurance products (rather than companies who seem to have just jumped in to the pet insurance space) and above all, bear in mind that the cheapest pet insurance policy is not always the best pet insurance policy.

Before we talk about the various pet insurance cover options for your Miniature Schnauzer, let’s take a look at this wonderful little dog breed in more detail.

Miniature Schnauzer: Breed Profile

The Miniature Schnauzer is considered to be the most popular of the Schnauzer family dog breeds. This animal was created through breeding in Germany during the late 1800s. The mix came from the combination of the original Schnauzer and the Affenpinscher. By the year of 1899, the Miniature Schnauzer was exhibited as its own distinct breed from the standard.  However, it was only in the year of 1933 that the American kennel club finally separated the two versions into their own breeds.

Even though the standard Schnauzer was in the United States and recognized as a popular dog breed long before the miniature version came into existence, the miniature became more popular through the years and outpaced its larger version, especially after World War II was over.

The temperament of the Miniature Schnauzer is considered to be spunky, inquisitive, alert, and they make great companions. These animals love being around action and playtime just the same as they are well mannered in the house during calm moods. They are less domineering and not as aggressive as the standard Schnauzer when it comes to other people and strange dogs (or other pets). This is what makes the Miniature Schnauzer an excellent house pet that is both great with children and a fantastic watchdog.

Caring For Your Miniature Schnauzer

Like all dogs, Miniature Schnauzers need plenty of exercise.  However, a nice long walk on the leash or a romp in the yard is plenty of physical movement for this dog each day. They are also best to live indoors with the family even though they could survive outside just fine. Emotionally, these animals need to be part of its “pack” at all times.

Grooming work for the Miniature Schnauzer will need to be in the form of heavy brushing at least once per week.  These dogs have a thick wiry coat that may need professional scissoring and clipping every two to three months.  This will help soften the texture of the coat.

Pet Insurance Considerations for the Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzer dogs have a lifespan of up to 14 years when in good health.  Veterinarians recommend that all new owners of the Miniature Schnauzer have their pets DNA tested specifically for myotonia congenita, type A PRA, and vWD.

Major health concerns with this dog breed are known to be PRA and urolithiasis. Minor issues include the possibility of  myotonia congenita, vWD,  allergies, and Schnauzer comedo syndrome.

Get a pet insurance quote for your Miniature Schnauzer