Owning a dog brings joy, companionship, and the occasional unexpected veterinary bill. With approximately 49 million households in the U.S. owning at least one dog, it’s important for dog owners to consider pet insurance as a safety net for potential health emergencies. Whether it’s an illness or an injury, having the right pet insurance can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
According to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA), accident-only dog insurance costs about $17 per month, while comprehensive accident and illness plans can run around $56 per month. Prices vary depending on your dog’s breed, age, and health, so it’s important to compare options to find the best fit for your pet.
Below, we’ll explore what you should know about dog insurance and highlight some of the best options on the market for 2024.
Key Takeaways
- Figo, Pets Best, and Trupanion are among the best dog insurance companies offering affordable rates.
- Pet insurance works similarly to human health insurance, with deductibles and reimbursement rates.
- Accident and illness coverage typically includes unexpected conditions, while wellness plans help cover routine veterinary care.
Best Dog Insurance Providers for 2024
Dog insurance plans come in various forms, from accident-only coverage to comprehensive accident and illness policies. The best plan for your dog will depend on its health needs, age, and breed. Below are some of the top pet insurance providers in 2024, ranked by affordability and coverage.
| Insurance Company | Average Monthly Cost | Best For |
| Spot | $70 | Unlimited coverage |
| Trupanion | $63 | Fast reimbursement |
| Lemonade | $54 | Puppies |
| Pets Best | $33 | Routine care coverage |
| Figo | $32 | Curable pre-existing conditions |
Spot: Best for Unlimited Coverage
Spot offers a range of plans, including accident-only and accident and illness coverage, allowing dog owners to select what suits their needs best. Spot stands out for its unlimited coverage option, ensuring you don’t hit any caps on claims per year, per incident, or over your pet’s lifetime. Spot even covers alternative therapies like acupuncture and chiropractic care.
Pros: Unlimited annual coverage, covers alternative therapies, can visit any licensed vet in the U.S.
Cons: Limited discounts, premiums increase with age, 14-day waiting period for illness coverage.
Trupanion: Best for Fast Reimbursement
Trupanion is known for its fast claims processing and extensive coverage for all dog breeds. The company covers hereditary and congenital conditions, ensuring no coverage caps on claims. One of the unique features of Trupanion is its direct vet payment system, which makes claims processing quick and hassle-free.
Pros: No payout caps, direct vet payments, premiums don’t increase with age.
Cons: No coverage for vet exam fees, no wellness plan, relatively high premiums.
Lemonade: Best for Puppies
Lemonade offers an excellent preventative care plan for puppies, covering spaying, neutering, vaccinations, and microchipping. The company also provides quick claims processing, making it a great choice for new dog owners looking for insurance that starts from the early days of their pup’s life.
Pros: Preventative care coverage for puppies, fast claim processing, multi-pet discount.
Cons: Not available in all states, extra charges for certain therapies, six-month waiting period for specific conditions.
Pets Best: Best for Routine Care
Pets Best allows you to customize your coverage based on your dog’s specific needs. You can opt for accident-only or accident and illness plans, and even add routine care coverage for annual checkups and vaccinations. Pets Best makes the claims process simple and offers the option of direct deposits to speed up reimbursements.
Pros: Customizable plans, routine care add-ons available, option for vet direct payments.
Cons: Rates increase with age, no coverage for food or supplements, no alternative therapy coverage.
Figo: Best for Pre-Existing Conditions
Figo is one of the few companies that may cover curable pre-existing conditions if your pet has been symptom-free for 12 months. Figo also offers a unique 100% reimbursement option, ensuring you don’t have to worry about out-of-pocket costs.
Pros: May cover curable pre-existing conditions, no per-incident caps, 100% reimbursement available.
Cons: No accident-only plans, added fees for exam coverage, six-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions.
Steps to Purchase Pet Insurance for Your Dog
Purchasing pet insurance is simple and usually done online. Follow these steps to ensure you get the best coverage for your dog:
1. Compare Pet Insurance Quotes
Start by obtaining quotes from multiple pet insurance companies. Compare coverage details, prices, and reviews to find the best fit for your needs. Look for insurers with a strong reputation for customer service and claim processing.
2. Choose Your Plan
Consider your dog’s health, age, and breed when selecting a plan. Determine whether you need accident-only coverage or accident and illness coverage, and if wellness add-ons would be beneficial for your pet’s routine care.
3. Purchase the Policy
Once you’ve decided on the best plan for your dog, complete the purchase on the company’s website. Many insurers allow you to pay monthly or annually.
Common Coverage and Exclusions in Dog Insurance
Most dog insurance policies will cover:
- Accidents (e.g., fractures, cuts)
- Illnesses (e.g., cancer, diabetes)
- Hospitalizations and surgeries
- Prescription medications
- Emergency vet visits
However, there are some exclusions to be aware of, including:
- Pre-existing conditions
- Routine dental care
- Grooming
- Elective procedures (e.g., spaying or neutering)
- Behavioral treatments
Average Cost of Dog Insurance
The cost of dog insurance varies based on your dog’s age, breed, and health history. On average, accident and illness policies cost $56 per month, while accident-only plans are cheaper at $17 per month. Other factors that influence the cost of your pet insurance include your location, coverage level, and chosen deductible.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pet insurance for your dog can save you from costly vet bills and provide peace of mind knowing your furry friend is covered. Be sure to compare quotes, check coverage options, and read reviews before making a decision. With the right policy, you can ensure your dog gets the care they need without breaking the bank.