Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or endorsed by any of these entities.
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By
Rebecca Safier
Rebecca Safier
Loans Expert
Rebecca is a freelance contributor to Newsweek’s personal finance team. A certified student loan counselor, she has written extensively on student loan debt and higher education. Rebecca has also covered a variety of other personal finance topics, including personal loans, the housing market and consumer credit. She’s committed to helping people understand their options and make informed decisions about their money.
Read Rebecca Safier's full bio
Reviewed By
Jenni Sisson
Jenni Sisson
Contributor
Jenni is a personal finance editor and writer. Her favorite topics are investing, mortgages, real estate, budgeting and entrepreneurship. She also hosts the Mama’s Money Map podcast, which helps stay-at-home moms earn more, spend less and invest the rest.
When she’s not writing or editing, you can find Jenni taking her family for hikes along the Wasatch Front, sewing with her sisters or beating someone at Scrabble.
Read Jenni Sisson's full bio
Pet insurance can reimburse you for costs associated with illness or injury of your beloved pet. With so many options to choose from, it can be tough to find the best coverage for your and your dog’s needs.
We’ve gathered and reviewed the best pet insurance plans for dogs based on coverage, prices, 24/7 vet health line availability and other factors. Many of these plans offer comprehensive benefits at reasonable price points with the option of adding wellness coverage for routine care.
Learn more about our picks for the best dog pet insurance, including the details of each plan and its pros and cons.
Our Methodology
Our research is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of personal finance services and products that best suit your needs. To help you in the decision-making process, our expert contributors compare common preferences and potential pain points, such as affordability, accessibility, and credibility.
Our Picks
- Best Overall: Pets Best
- Best Accident Plans: Figo
- Best for Quick Processing: Lemonade
- Best for Unlimited Annual Coverage: Healthy Paws
- Best Multiple Pet Discount: Embrace
- Best for Additional Benefits: Fetch
- Best for Various Coverage Options: Spot
- Best for Chronic Illnesses: Trupanion
- Best for Alternative Therapy Coverage: Paw Protect
- Best for Broad Coverage: ASPCA
Best Dog And Canine Pet Insurance Providers of 2024
Compare our top picks for pet insurance to protect your furry friend.
Best Overall
Pets Best
Vault Verified
Annual Max Coverage
Unlimited
Reimbursem*nt Rates
50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90%
Deductibles
$50 – $2,000
Why We Chose It
Pets Best is our pick for the best overall pet insurance for dogs, as it offers multiple plan options with a wide range of deductibles and two optional wellness add-ons. Pets Best customers also have access to a 24/7 vet helpline.
Pros
- Multiple deductible and plan options
- Two optional wellness plan add-ons
- Vet helpline with 24/7 availability
Cons
- Must wait six months to make claims on cruciate ligament conditions
- Higher fees if you pay monthly
- Essential plan doesn’t cover vet exam fees, behavioral therapies or alternative therapies
Policy Highlights
- Accident and illness plan
- Accident-only plan
- Optional wellness plans
- 24/7 vet helpline
- Euthanasia for humane reasons
Best for Quick Processing
Lemonade
Vault Verified
Annual Max Coverage
$100,000
Reimbursem*nt Rates
70%, 80% or 90%
Deductibles
$100, $250 or $500
Why We Chose It
Lemonade offers a user-friendly digital experience with fast claims processing and payments. It only has a two-day waiting period for accident coverage and offers discounts for bundling your pet insurance with another policy, such as home or renters insurance. Read our Lemonade pet insurance review.
Pros
- Fast claims processing and payments
- Multiple rider add-ons, including dental illness, physical therapy and behavioral conditions
- Discounts for insuring more than one pet or bundling insurance policies
Cons
- Six-month waiting period for cruciate tears
- Doesn’t offer unlimited annual coverage
- No option for paying your veterinarian directly
Policy Highlights
- Accident and illness plans
- Optional wellness plans
- Multiple rider options, such as dental illness and physical therapy
Best for Short Waiting Period for Accident Plan
Figo
Vault Verified
Annual Max Coverage
Unlimited
Reimbursem*nt Rates
70%, 80%, 90% or 100%
Deductibles
$100 – $1,500
Why We Chose It
Figo’s accident and injury coverage only comes with a one-day waiting period after you sign up. The waiting period for illness coverage is a bit longer at 14 days, and orthopedic coverage may take six months unless you get a waiver from your vet.
Pros
- Optional wellness plan reimburses for routine exams and vaccines
- 24/7 pet telehealth line
- Up to 100% reimbursem*nts
Cons
- No option for direct payments to veterinarian
- Six-month waiting period for orthopedic problems
- Only covers vet exam fees if you purchase “Veterinary Exam Fees Powerup”
Policy Highlights
- Only one-day waiting period for accident and injury coverage
- Multiple deductible options
- 24/7 vet helpline
Best for Unlimited Annual Coverage
Healthy Paws
Vault Verified
Annual Max Coverage
Unlimited
Reimbursem*nt Rates
Up to 90%
Deductibles
$50 – $1,000
Why We Chose It
Healthy Paws offers plans with unlimited annual coverage without breaking the bank. Its plan options are somewhat limited, though, as it doesn’t offer an accident-only plan or wellness add-on.
Pros
- Unlimited annual coverage
- Can pay veterinarian directly with advance request
- Telehealth line with 24/7 availability
Cons
- No accident-only plans
- No wellness add-on or coverage for routine care
- Doesn’t offer any discounts
Policy Highlights
- Unlimited annual coverage
- Direct payments to vet available
- 24/7 telehealth line
Best for Multiple Pet Discount
Embrace
Vault Verified
Annual Max Coverage
Unlimited
Reimbursem*nt Rates
70%, 80% or 90%
Deductibles
$100, $250, $500, $750 or $1,000
Why We Chose It
Embrace offers a 10% discount if you insure more than one animal, making it an affordable choice for multi-pet households. Active service members and veterans can also receive a 5% military discount on pet insurance plans.
Pros
- 10% multi-pet discount
- Coverage for behavioral therapy and medications
- Automatic healthy pet discount of 5% in your first year and 10% in your second year
Cons
- Six-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions
- 14-day waiting period for illness coverage
- Claims can take 14 business days to process
Policy Highlights
- Unlimited annual coverage
- Coverage for behavioral and dental issues
- Opportunities for discounts
Best for Additional Benefits
Fetch
Vault Verified
Annual Max Coverage
$15,000
Reimbursem*nt Rates
70%, 80% or 90%
Deductibles
$250, $300 or $500
Why We Chose It
Fetch offers some unique benefits, including reimbursem*nt for boarding and kennel fees, for advertising a missing pet and for canceling a vacation to care for a sick pet. This company also offers discount opportunities for veterans and AARP members, but its maximum annual coverage is limited. Read our Fetch pet insurance review.
Pros
- Unique perks, such as coverage for boarding fees if you’re in the hospital
- Covers up to $1,000 if you have to cancel your vacation to care for your sick dog
- Competitive prices
Cons
- Annual coverage limit of $15,000
- No accident-only plan
- No discount for insuring multiple pets
Policy Highlights
- Unique perks
- Limited annual coverage
- No accident-only plan
Best for Various Coverage Options
Spot
Vault Verified
Annual Max Coverage
Unlimited
Reimbursem*nt Rates
70%, 80% or 90%
Deductibles
$100, $250, $300, $500, $750 or $1,000
Why We Chose It
Spot offers a variety of coverage options, including plans with annual coverage limits anywhere from $2,500 to unlimited. It also offers a pet telehealth line that you can contact 24/7.
Pros
- Multiple coverage options with various annual limits
- No special waiting periods for cruciate ligament or orthopedic conditions
- Coverage for vet exam fees and microchipping
Cons
- No coverage for daycare or boarding
- Does not cover preventative care
- Plans come with a 14-day waiting period
Policy Highlights
- Multiple plan options
- Covers vet exam fees and microchipping
- Plans have 14-day waiting period
Best for Chronic Illnesses
Trupanion
Vault Verified
Annual Max Coverage
Unlimited
Reimbursem*nt Rates
90%
Deductibles
$0 – $1,000
Why We Chose It
Trupanion can be a good fit for pets with chronic illnesses, as it offers per-condition deductibles. Once you’ve hit the deductible, Trupanion will offer full coverage for that condition’s treatment for life.
Pros
- Per-condition deductibles could save you money if your pet has a chronic illness
- Premiums don’t automatically increase as your pet ages
- Offers coverage for prescription food and supplements
Cons
- Five-day waiting period for injuries
- 30-day waiting period for illnesses
- No coverage for spaying or neutering
Policy Highlights
- Unlimited annual coverage
- Per-condition deductibles
Best for Alternative Therapy Coverage
Paw Protect
Vault Verified
Annual Max Coverage
Unlimited
Reimbursem*nt Rates
70%, 80% or 90%
Deductibles
$100, $250 or $500
Why We Chose It
Paw Protect offers coverage options for alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, as well as behavioral therapy.
Pros
- Covers alternative and behavioral therapies
- Can pay vet directly in certain circ*mstances
- Two-day waiting period for accident coverage
Cons
- Six-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions
- Doesn’t cover routine care unless you purchase Wellness Rewards plan
- No coverage for pre-existing conditions
Policy Highlights
- Unlimited annual coverage
- Covers alternative therapies
- Two-day waiting period for accident coverage
Best for Broad Coverage
ASPCA
Vault Verified
Annual Max Coverage
Unlimited
Reimbursem*nt Rates
70%, 80% or 90%
Deductibles
$100, $250 or $500
Why We Chose It
ASPCA offers customizable coverage options for puppies and dogs with a simple claim submission process and direct deposit for reimbursem*nt. You can choose various coverage options, including an accident-only plan and preventative care add-on.
Pros
- Simple claim submission process via mobile app
- Can cover prescription food
- Option to add preventative care coverage
Cons
- 12-month waiting period for ligament and knee injuries
- Does not pay vet directly
Policy Highlights
- Unlimited annual coverage
- Easy mobile claim submissions
- Optional preventative care coverage add-on
Do You Get What You Pay for With Pet Insurance Just for Dogs?
Pet insurance requires upfront payments with the hope of saving money on veterinary bills later. It can be especially worthwhile if your pet’s breed is prone to certain conditions or as your pet ages and has increasing medical needs.
Let’s say that you pay $56 per month for pet insurance with a $250 deductible and an 80% reimbursem*nt level. Over three years, you’ll pay a total of $2,016 in pet insurance premiums. If your dog needs a $4,000 surgery during this time, you will get $3,000 reimbursed from your pet insurance plan. Overall, you’d save $984 from having pet insurance and not having to pay for the entire surgery out of pocket.
Of course, every dog’s needs are different, and it’s impossible to predict whether your pet will tear a ligament, swallow one of your smart home devices or run into another medical emergency. Consider how an unexpected bill from the vet would impact your finances when determining whether a pet insurance plan would be worth it for you.
For expenses you do need to pay out of pocket, check out these best credit cards for pet owners.
Pros and Cons of Pet Insurance Geared for Dogs:
Pros
- Can significantly reduce your veterinary expenses
- Offers multiple options, allowing you to choose the right plan for you
- May have a low deductible, which would limit your out-of-pocket costs
- Gives you peace of mind and allows you to choose the best treatment options for your dog without having to decide based on cost
- Lets you see any veterinarian of your choice
Cons
- Typically reimburses you after you’ve paid the vet, so you may have to cover the bills upfront
- Won’t cover incurable pre-existing conditions
- Costs can vary depending on your dog’s age and breed
- Annual limits restrict how much you can get reimbursed
- Doesn’t reimburse for wellness or routine visits unless you add on this coverage
What Policies Did Not Make Our List of the Best Pet Insurance Plans for Dogs?
Policies that didn’t make our list of the best insurance plans for dogs include ones with unreasonably high premiums, limited coverage options and negative customer reviews. Before purchasing a plan, shop around and compare quotes from multiple providers while reading over customer reviews. That way, you can find a highly-rated plan that meets your coverage needs without being prohibitively expensive.
Are Pet Insurance Plans for Dogs More Expensive?
Pet insurance plans for dogs tend to be more expensive than pet insurance plans for cats. According to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA), the average annual cost of an accident and illness plan for dogs is $675.61, while the average annual cost for cats is $383.30. For an accident-only plan, the average annual premium is $204.16 for dogs and $116.11 for cats.
The cost of your pet insurance plan will vary depending on several factors, including your location, your dog’s age and breed, the type of pet insurance plan and the amount of coverage you choose.
Why Would You Need a Pet Insurance Company for Dogs?
The cost of veterinary care can be high, especially if your pet experiences an emergency illness or accident. Pet insurance for dogs can help defray these costs and prevent you from draining your emergency savings or going into debt.
More pet parents are opting into this financial safety net than in previous years, according to NAPHIA. In 2023, more than 5.6 million U.S. dogs and cats were covered by pet insurance, an increase of 17% from the year prior.
Here are some of the top reasons you may benefit from getting pet insurance for your fur baby.
- Reimburse emergency expenses. From swallowing a foreign object to ingesting a toxic plant, your dog may run into an unexpected health emergency. Treatment costs can be especially high if you have to take your pup to an emergency care facility. With pet insurance, you can get reimbursed up to a certain percentage of these bills.
- Cover accidents, illnesses or both. A pet insurance plan can pay you back for costs incurred due to an accident, illness or both, depending on the type of coverage you elect. Note that most plans don’t cover pre-existing conditions, however.
- Pay for routine wellness visits. Some plans offer an optional wellness add-on. This comprehensive coverage will cost you more, but you’ll get reimbursed for routine wellness checks and preventative services that wouldn’t otherwise be covered.
- Choose your own veterinarian. While many human health insurance companies require you to use a specific health care provider, pet insurance policies let you pick your own veterinarian. You’ll usually upload claims to your pet insurance company for reimbursem*nt after paying your vet.
- Give you peace of mind. Having pet insurance can give you peace of mind and let you access the best medical treatments for your dog without having to choose based on costs or your current financial situation.
How To Choose the Best Pet Insurance For Your Dog
With multiple options to choose from, selecting the best pet insurance for your dog can be a daunting task. Here are some factors that can guide you in the right direction.
Coverage Options
Speak with your vet about your pet’s predisposition to certain illnesses and injuries, depending on their breed and age. You may also want to consider your pet’s risk of injury based on your lifestyle and the amount of time you spend outdoors. Understanding these risk factors can help you choose a plan that offers appropriate coverage for your dog.
Exclusions and Limitations
As you compare pet insurance plans, consider any exclusions or limitations each option has. Most plans exclude incurable pre-existing conditions, though some will cover curable pre-existing conditions. Plans may also have restrictions depending on your pet’s breed and age. Plus, they generally won’t cover routine care unless you add optional wellness coverage, if available.
Cost
The cost of your pet insurance plan is a major consideration. Review not only the plan’s monthly or annual premiums but also its deductible, reimbursem*nt rate and annual limits. You want to find a plan that offers the coverage you need without breaking the bank. Comparing quotes from multiple companies can help you find the most cost-effective option. Keep an eye out for any discounts, too. Some pet insurance companies offer a discount if you insure multiple pets, bundle insurance policies or pay your premium annually instead of monthly.
Additional Features and Benefits
Depending on your needs, you may seek a pet insurance plan with specific benefits, such as a wellness plan, telehealth availability, end-of-life benefits or direct payments to your veterinarian. Some plans also cover alternative therapies like acupuncture or hydrotherapy for your dog.
Company Reputation
Before selecting a plan, read customer reviews to learn more about a company’s reputation. Speaking with a customer representative can also help you gauge the company’s customer service and professionalism. You can also get answers to any additional questions you have, such as the typical amount of time it takes to pay claims and whether the policy involves a waiting period before it kicks in.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Should You Spend on Dog Pet Insurance?
The amount you should spend on dog pet insurance depends on the type of coverage you’re looking for. Expect to pay the most for a comprehensive plan with a wellness-plan add-on, and the least for an accident-only plan. According to NAPHIA, the average monthly premium for an accident and illness plan is $56.30, while the average for an accident-only plan is just $17.01.
Is Pet Insurance More Expensive for Certain Dog Breeds?
Certain dog breeds are more expensive to insure than others. According to Spot Pet Insurance, the most expensive breed to insure is the Cane Corso, a type of mastiff, followed by the French Bulldog. The least expensive breeds to insure are chihuahuas and maltipoos, which are a Maltese-poodle cross. Large dogs and purebred dogs tend to be the most expensive to insure.
Can You Get Pet Insurance if Your Dog is Already Sick?
You can get pet insurance if your dog is already sick, but your policy probably won’t cover pre-existing conditions that occurred before you bought your policy. Plus, most plans have a waiting period and don’t offer coverage for illnesses that occur during that time. That said, some policies will cover curable pre-existing conditions after your policy is in place and your waiting period is over, as long as new symptoms haven’t presented themselves for 6 to 12 months.
Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. We may earn a commission from partner links on Newsweek, but commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.
Rebecca Safier
Loans Expert
Rebecca is a freelance contributor to Newsweek’s personal finance team. A certified student loan counselor, she has written extensively on student loan debt and higher education. Rebecca has also covered a variety of other personal finance topics, including personal loans, the housing market and consumer credit. She’s committed to helping people understand their options and make informed decisions about their money.
Read more articles by Rebecca Safier
