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Pet Insurance
Dog insurance — pricing varies wildly by breed.
Large breeds and breeds prone to hip dysplasia, cardiac issues, or cancer cost significantly more to insure. Smaller mixed breeds are the cheapest. Here's the cost picture and what to look for.
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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
Which dog breeds are most expensive to insure?
Large breeds (Great Danes, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Saint Bernards), breeds prone to orthopedic issues (German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers), and breeds with high cancer rates (Golden Retrievers, Boxers) carry the highest premiums.
At what age should I get my dog insured?
Ideally as a puppy — before any pre-existing conditions develop. Some insurers won't write a new policy on a dog over 10-12 years old, and premiums escalate sharply after age 7.
Does dog insurance cover hip dysplasia?
It depends. Most plans cover hip dysplasia diagnosed AFTER coverage starts (subject to waiting periods of 6-12 months). If a vet has noted hip issues before coverage starts, it's a pre-existing exclusion.
What is breed-specific coverage?
A few insurers offer riders that specifically address known breed-risk conditions. For example, a Boxer plan might include enhanced cancer coverage. These cost more but can be worth it for high-risk breeds.
Is wellness coverage worth it for dogs?
If you do routine vet visits, vaccines, dental cleanings, and heartworm prevention — wellness coverage often pays back roughly what you pay in. It's mostly a budgeting tool rather than insurance against catastrophic loss.