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Pet Insurance
Pet insurance by breed — what drives the premium.
Breed is the single biggest factor in pet insurance pricing. Some breeds cost 3-4x more to insure than others because of well-documented genetic conditions. Here's the rough cost picture and the conditions behind it.
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How pet insurance works
Three things to know before you buy.
1
Pay your vet first
Most pet plans are reimbursement-based — you pay the vet, then submit a claim for the covered portion.
2
Pre-existing exclusions
Conditions diagnosed before coverage starts are typically excluded. Earlier enrollment = broader coverage.
3
Deductible + reimbursement
Pick a deductible ($250–$1,000) and reimbursement % (70/80/90). Higher deductible + lower reimbursement = cheaper premium.
FAQs
Pet insurance — what people ask
Why does breed affect pet insurance cost so much?
Insurers price based on actuarial data of how often each breed files claims and how expensive those claims are. Breeds with well-documented genetic conditions (e.g., German Shepherds with hip dysplasia) cost more because claim frequency is higher.
Which dog breeds have the lowest insurance premiums?
Generally mixed-breed dogs under 50 lbs, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and certain terriers. Smaller breeds with diverse genetics have lower claim rates.
Which dog breeds have the highest premiums?
Bernese Mountain Dogs, French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Boxers, Great Danes, and Rottweilers are typically the most expensive due to a combination of size, lifespan, and breed-specific conditions.
Do mixed-breed dogs cost less to insure than purebreds?
Usually yes. Mixed breeds tend to have broader genetic diversity and fewer documented breed-specific risks, leading to lower claim rates and lower premiums.
Are some breeds uninsurable?
Not generally, but a few insurers exclude or surcharge specific breeds (e.g., Pit Bulls, Rottweilers) for liability reasons in homeowners coverage. Standard pet medical insurance is usually available for all breeds, though premium varies.