Pet insurance for dogs
Dogs are generally more expensive to insure than cats, and the reasons point directly at what you should be comparing.
Orthopedic cover deserves attention
Cruciate ligament injury and hip dysplasia are among the more expensive things a dog may need treated, and they are exactly where policies differ most. Look for the orthopedic waiting period specifically, whether it can be shortened with a vet exam, and whether a bilateral clause applies.
Hereditary and congenital conditions
If you have a breed associated with particular conditions, whether hereditary conditions are covered is one of the most consequential differences between policies. Many modern plans include them; confirm it rather than assuming, and remember that signs appearing before enrollment will normally make them pre-existing.
Annual limits and large dogs
Treatment costs scale with body weight — drug doses, anaesthesia time, hospitalisation. For a large or giant breed, a low annual limit is reached faster than the same limit on a small dog. Consider the limit relative to the animal, not in isolation.
Common questions
Is insurance more expensive for certain breeds?
Generally yes. Insurers price on claim history by breed, so breeds associated with more frequent or costly claims typically cost more to insure.
Ready to compare?
The comparison tool narrows the list based on your pet and what you want covered. It does not recommend a policy — that decision depends on your pet's history and your finances.
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