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Best Pet Insurance 2024: Is It Worth Getting For Your Dog?

Many factors go into finding the right pet insurance for your dog. Our comprehensive guide explores common health concerns and the different considerations when seeking the best health insurance to protect your pup and your wallet. We also review several companies to provide custom recommendations for dog owners like you. This insurance agent-reviewed guide can help you feel comfier with this big decision. This content was reviewed by our licensed insurance agent, Michelle Schenker.

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Last Updated: January 2, 2024 | 9 min read

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There’s no doubt about it. The world of pet insurance is a confusing one. And with approximately 69 million dog-owning households in the US, you are probably looking to gain a better understanding. Although all pet insurance policies offer a common goal, there are many differences between coverage, prices, waiting periods, and more. Let’s break it down into layperson’s terms so you are prepared to decide whether pet insurance is worth it for your pet.

Pet insurance is a type of insurance that pays for a portion of unexpected medical expenses for your covered dog or cat. Pet insurance plans are typically reimbursement-based, meaning that you pay the vet’s bills upfront and file a claim to be paid back by the insurance company.

In this concise overview, we look at the best pet insurance companies for you to choose from while also providing a 101 guide to help you pick the best for your family’s needs. We look at what pet insurance does and doesn’t cover, the types of plans available, whether it’s worth it, and much more. So, let’s jump straight into the pet insurance particulars.

At A Glance

Pets Best logo
Our Rating

Best
Overall

Figo Pet Insurance logo
Our Rating

Best
Value

Trupanion logo
Our Rating

Best For
Bilateral Conditions

Note: Clicking the above links take you to each company’s website to learn more and get a quote. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Pet Insurance 101

Shy dog at the vet
You should arm yourself with the pet insurance facts to decide whether it’s right for you and Fido.

Only 1-2% of U.S. dogs and cats have pet insurance. And yet, only 39% have $1,000 in savings to pay for an unexpected emergency.


How Are Pet Insurance Costs Calculated?

Pet insurance paperwork
The type of pet you have is only one of many factors that companies use to calculate your pet insurance costs.

Generally speaking, cats are cheaper than dogs to insure, but dogs aren’t as expensive as horses or some exotic pets. In addition to the type of plan you choose, companies use several other factors to calculate policy costs.

Breed

Although every dog is different, certain breeds tend to be healthier than others. For example, purebred dogs commonly have more hereditary health hiccups, whereas mixed breeds are usually more hearty. This means more frequent vet visits and higher costs on average for purebreds, a factor the insurance company must consider. Further, a dog like the Bulldog tends to have more health problems than an Australian Cattle Dog.

Age

Like us, older dogs tend to suffer from more health issues than younger ones. So, the older your dog is, the higher your insurance premiums are likely to be. As your dog ages and vet costs rise over the years, you will likely see increased insurance premiums.

Sex

The gender of your dog also has a bearing on insurance premiums. Female dogs typically suffer from fewer health concerns than males, and they tend to be more resilient when they do. Plus, many male canines are more boisterous, making them more prone to injuries.

Location

The area you live in also determines how much you pay for veterinary treatment.  Usually, city-living costs are higher than those in a more rural area. This commonly translates into higher insurance premiums in urban areas.


What Are the Different Plans?

Puppy at the vet
Make sure your policy options cover your coverage needs.

The plan is your first consideration when picking an insurance policy. Each plan type has several levels of coverage, and companies categorize them in different ways, making a choice all the more difficult. But generally, there are two types of pet insurance plans to choose from:

  • Accident-only – As it sounds, this plan only covers accidents. Examples of eligible coverage incidents include ingesting foreign objects, poisoning, and getting hit by a car.
  • Accident and Illness – This plan is the most popular choice among pet owners because it covers unexpected costs relating to both accidents and illnesses. Some illnesses include urinary tract infections, cancer, and allergies. There may be exclusions where some illnesses aren’t eligible for coverage. Plus, pre-existing conditions are not covered.

Some companies also offer a wellness plan (aka preventative care plan) during the enrollment process to cover routine vet expenses such as vaccinations, annual exams, spay/neuter procedures, etc., but check the policy carefully before signing up. This add-on coverage isn’t technically an insurance product is often sold as an add-on to a pet insurance policy. A few companies also offer it separately from an insurance policy.

Deductible, Reimbursement, And Payout Options

In addition to the type of insurance plan you choose, you must also select the cost level for your deductible, reimbursement, and claim payouts.

The deductible is the amount you must pay before your insurance policy kicks in. Some plans require you to pay the deductible annually, whereas some require it to be paid per incident. Typical deductible choices are $250, $500, and $750, but some companies let you set other amounts to suit your financial situation. The higher the deductible, the lower your premium will be.

You also need to set your reimbursement level when you sign up for a plan. Typical reimbursement options are 70%, 80%, and 90%. This means that once you have paid the deductible, you can file a claim for repayment based on the percentage you set. The lower the reimbursement level, the lower the premium should be.

Many insurance plans cap the payout for the claims you can make. So, once you have hit your payout limit, your provider doesn’t cover any further costs. These caps can be per calendar year, per incident, or over the lifespan of your pup, so make sure you understand what you are signing up for. Average limits range from $5,000 to unlimited. The higher the payout (unlimited being the highest) selected, the higher the premium price you should expect.


Which Company Offers the Best Pet Insurance For Dogs?

Dog Paws in human hand
Pet insurance helps make difficult decisions easier and makes your dog’s health the priority, not how you’ll pay.

Now let’s review the best pet insurance providers. We chose these companies based on their thorough coverage, flexible premiums, deductibles, and reimbursement levels, as well as transparent terms and conditions. Various discounts, preventative care coverage, and other add-ons are also available. And once you are ready, we’ve made a free quote form that provides customized policy quotes from top pet insurance companies when you fill in your pet’s details. By entering your pet’s specific characteristics, you can get a better understanding of the coverage needed.

Best Overall: Pets Best

Pets Best

Pets Best Pet Health Insurance Logo
  • No age limits or restrictions
  • Thorough coverage
  • Some of the lowest prices in the industry
  • Offers an Accident-only plan

Plan Options

  • Annual Payouts: $5,000 or unlimited
  • Annual Deductibles: $50, $100, $200, $250, $500, or $1,000
  • Reimbursements: 70%, 80%, or 90%
ProsCons
No lifetime limits on any planThere have recently been longer than average waiting times for repayments.
Consistently priced lower compared to other companies while offering great coverageThere is a $2 transaction fee, which they waive when paid annually
Offers numerous avenues of customer support, including telephone, live chat, and emailDoesn't cover alternative or holistic therapies
Have access a vet whenever you need through your account
Puppies must be at least seven weeks old, but there are no upper age limits
Two wellness plans available and various deductible and reimbursement options
Offers a 5% discount for multi-pet households and a 5% discount for military personnel and their families

Full Pets Best Review

Best Value: Figo

Figo

  • Excellent value for money
  • Offers options for 100% reimbursement and unlimited annual payouts
  • Diminishing deductible decreases by $50 each year the policyholder is claim-free until it’s $0
  • Coverage includes age and weight-related concerns and hereditary and chronic conditions

Plan Options

  • Annual Payouts: $5,000, $10,000, or unlimited
  • Annual Deductibles: $100, $250, $500, or $750
  • Reimbursements: 70%, 80%, 90%, or 100%
ProsCons
One of the few pet insurance companies to offer 100% reimbursement$15 administration fee and $2 per month transaction fee
Annual deductible rather than per-incidentIf your dog suffers from a knee injury in the six-month waiting period, both knees are automatically excluded from coverage
No upper age limits, although dogs must be older than eight weeks
Covers non-routine dental treatment to teeth, face, and jaw
Optional add-ons include wellness plans, veterinary exam fee coverage, and an extra care pack
Most claims are dealt with within four days, although 50% are settled within one day
5% multi-pet discount is available
Your pet is covered anywhere in the world

Full Figo Review

Best For Bilateral Conditions: Trupanion

Trupanion

Trupanion logo
  • One of the only companies with no bilateral exclusions
  • Claims can be paid in less than 5 minutes via Trupanion Express
  • 90% reimbursement and unlimited payouts for all plans
  • Offers enrollment from birth

Plan Options

  • Annual Payouts: Unlimited only
  • Annual Deductibles: $0- $1,000
  • Reimbursements: 90% only
ProsCons
One of the only pet insurance providers that doesn't exclude bilateral conditions (a condition that affects both sides of the body)No wellness plan options available, and it doesn't cover vet examination fees
Pays 90% reimbursement with no payout limitsQuotes from Trupanion tend to come out as more expensive compared to other companies
Enrollment is available from birth to 14 years of ageIllness waiting period is 30 days, compared to the market average of 14 days
Offers coverage for additional expenses incurred from alternative therapies such as physical therapy, acupuncture, hydrotherapy, and behavioral modification trainingThere is a one-time admin fee of $35, $25, or $0 depending on your state
Your pup is covered in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.Per-incident deductible, which means you'll have to pay the deductible for each emergency your pet endures

Full Trupanion Review

Embrace

Embrace

Embrace Pet Insurance logo
  • Premium reduces by $50 per year if no claims are made
  • Covers curable pre-existing conditions, dependent on evaluation
  • Exam fees included in all policies
  • Offers coverage for behavioral therapy and training
  • Dental treatment included

Plan Options

  • Annual Payouts: $5,000, $8,000, $10,000, $15,000, $30,000, or unlimited available via telephone
  • Annual Deductibles: $200, $300, $500, $750, or $1,000
  • Reimbursements: 70%, 80%, or 90%
ProsCons
Diminishing deductible feature where the annual deductible decreases by $50 each year a claim isn't submitted $25 enrollment fee and $1 monthly transaction charge
Accident benefits start just after a two-day waiting periodOnly covers enrolled pets up to 14 years for accident and illness
No lifetime limits and no per-incident limits as they use an annual deductibleExcludes bilateral conditions (conditions or diseases that affect both sides of the body)
Optional wellness plan add-on
Offers up to a 10% multi-pet discount, a 5% military discount (not in NY and TN), and a 15% USAA discount in most states
Dependent on evaluation, some curable pre-existing conditions are covered

Full Embrace Review

Healthy Paws

Healthy Paws

  • Unlimited annual and lifetime payouts for all plans
  • Fastest claim payout, on average, compared to others
  • Excellent value and competitive price
  • High customer satisfaction ratings

Plan Options

  • Annual Payouts: Unlimited only
  • Annual Deductibles: $100, $250, $500, $750, or $1,000
  • Reimbursements: 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90%
ProsCons
No limitations on payouts, per-incident caps, annual caps, or lifetime capsDoesn't offer wellness plans
Settles 99% of claims within two days, fastest in the industryOne-time fee of $25 in some states
Renowned for their customer satisfaction and have one of the best customer service reputations in the industryNo discount for multi-pet households
Only has a 15 day waiting period for CCL concerns, which is much shorter than others Dogs enrolled after six years of age are excluded from hip dysplasia coverage
Some plans include alternative care such as chiropractic, hydrotherapy, and acupunctureOnly provides unlimited payouts, which means you cannot lower your monthly premiums

Full Healthy Paws Review

Lemonade

Lemonade

Lemonade logo
  • AI-driven claims process
  • Not available in every U.S. state
  • Ability to bundle with homeowners or renters insurance policies
  • Optional wellness coverage

Plan Options

  • Annual Payouts: $5,000, $10,000, $20,000, $50,000, or $100,000
  • Annual Deductibles: $100, $250, or $500
  • Reimbursements: 70%, 80%, or 90%
ProsCons
No lifetime limits on any planOnly insures residents of 34 U.S. states and DC
Consistently offers lower than average quotesExclusions for bilateral conditions
Offers great coverage for all ages, ranging from 8 weeks to 20+ years (dependent on breed)As a digital-based company, they limit customer services to an AI-driven chatbot or email (phone line restricted to emergencies only)
Annual deductibles rather than per-incidentOne of the only pet insurance companies that doesn't cover your pet outside the U.S.
Optional wellness plan as an add-on

Full Lemonade Review


Is Pet Insurance Worth it?

French Bulldog at Vet with Cast
For families who can’t afford unexpected vet bills, it’s wise to get an insurance policy to protect your wallet and, most importantly, your pet.

According to NAPHIA (North American Pet Health Insurance Association), the average monthly premium for an accident and illness insurance policy in the U.S. in 2022 was $53.34 for dogs.

Sure, many families might view this as an unnecessary bill, but when you consider that some vet bills rise to tens of thousands of dollars, sometimes more, it may prove worthwhile. No one wants to decide between their beloved pet’s life and their wallet in an already stressful time.

Let’s look at an example of a dog needing hip dysplasia surgery. The average cost for surgery for one hip falls anywhere between $1,500 and $7,000. Suppose the total vet bill is $3,500, and the deductible you selected is $500, with a 90% reimbursement level. This example means you would have to pay $800 or $850, depending on the pet insurance provider’s reimbursement method.

Companies tend to use one of two reimbursement methods:

  • “Deductible then copay” – This reimbursement method takes the actual vet bill amount minus the remaining annual deductible minus the copay.
    • $3,500 – $500 (deductible) – $300 (10% of $3,000) = $2,700 reimbursement
  • “Copay then deductible” – This reimbursement method takes the actual vet bill amount minus the copay minus the remaining annual deductible.
    • $3,500 – $350 (10% of $3,500) – $500 (deductible)= $2,650 reimbursement

Either way, you’re only responsible for paying a small portion of the vet bill compared to the initial vet bill. But your share will vary based on the calculation model and the deductible and copay options outlined in your policy.

Not all families choose pet insurance. Some set aside an amount each month in a savings account. But if your dog faces an issue within a few months of saving, you still face a high bill without much support. Pet insurance provides peace of mind that you are financially safe and can afford whatever emergency arises.


Can I Get A Discount?

First and foremost, we recommend you get quotes from at least 2-3 reputable companies to make sure the policy coverage and price are competitive and meet your needs fully.

Some companies offer pet insurance discounts. If you are eligible, it’s a great way to save. Here are some of the most popular discounts offered:

  • Multi-pet discount – If you have more than one pet, some companies offer a small reduction if you take out coverage for additional pets with them. 
  • Annual pay discount – Paying for your insurance policy upfront can often save additional fees that are added to monthly premiums. 
  • Spay/neuter discount – Some companies offer discounts for parents who have spayed or neutered their pets. 
  • Military discount – If you currently work in or previously served with the Army, Air Force, Marines, Navy, or Coast Guard, you may be eligible for savings.  
  • Employment discount – It’s worth checking with your employer if they offer pet insurance benefits that could entitle you to a deal. But be sure to research the company they are partnered with to make sure you are getting the best pet insurance policy for your unique pet and financial situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dog at table with parents and paper
Do you and your dog have questions? We have answers!

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding pet insurance.

How does pet insurance work?

Once you have chosen the policy that best suits your needs, you pay a monthly or annual premium. As long as you keep up with the payments, you will receive ongoing coverage. There are almost always waiting periods before your dog is covered, so be sure to review those before you sign up.

If your pup becomes sick or injured, you visit the vet or animal hospital. Your insurance policy states how claims should be paid in the fine print. There are usually claim submission deadlines to be aware of, too (most are around 180 days).

There are typically two options. The most common option is for you to pay the vet bill upfront and then submit your claims to the insurance company afterward. The second option is only available for pet insurance companies and veterinarian offices that are partnered to accept direct payment. In this case, the vet takes your insurance details and requests payment directly from the insurance company.

How do pet insurance companies know about pre-existing conditions?

Pre-existing conditions include illnesses or injuries that started before your insurance policy was purchased or during the waiting period. Many companies require up-to-date medical records or a vet examination before coverage begins, minimizing the risk of unknown pre-existing conditions.

Some companies cover curable pre-existing conditions, such as an ear infection or urinary tract infection. For example, they may cover the condition if it has not reappeared during a specified period (typically 180 days, but check your policy for details). In that case, they don’t classify it as a pre-existing condition and may cover future ear or urinary tract infections.

Is pet insurance tax deductible?

In the vast majority of cases, pet insurance is not tax-deductible. But, there are exceptions, including relying on a service or guide dog for a disability, not including emotional support animals. According to IRS publication 502, you may be able to deduct medical expenses, which include buying, training, and maintaining such an animal. Maintenance usually covers food, and grooming, and it may cover insurance policies that contribute towards veterinary care.

Does it matter what breed I have?

Yes, from time to time, our best pet insurance recommendations may vary based on your breed. Check out our individual breed pet insurance suggestions: AkitaAustralian ShepherdsBeagles, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Border Collies, Boston TerriersBoxers, Bulldogs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Cavapoos, Cani Corsi, Chihuahuas, Cocker Spaniels, Corgis, Dachshunds, Dobermans, French Bulldogs, German Shepherds, Goldendoodles, Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, Labradors, Labradoodles, Newfoundlands, Pitbulls, Pomeranians, Pugs, Rottweilers, Shiba Inu, Siberian Huskies, Toy Poodles, & Yorkies.


Final Thoughts

There are many things to consider when deciding whether pet insurance is worth it for your dog and which insurance company and policy to choose. We hope you feel armed with the information you need to make the right decision using our pet insurance 101 guide. Each of the pet insurance providers above offers excellent coverage. Still, each offers different positives that might make one option better for you over another. Always choose the one that suits you and your needs best.

Ultimately, one of the most vital things to do before taking out pet insurance is to read the small print. It might be boring, but it’s super important to make sure that it covers what you need when you need it. If it’s full of insurance jargon that you don’t understand, be sure to ask someone who does or speak to your vet. They should be happy to explain it to you.

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Disclaimer: Information regarding insurance company offerings, pricing, availability, and other contract details are subject to change by the insurance company at any time and are not under the control of this website. Information published on this website is intended for reference use only. Please review your policy carefully before signing up for a new insurance contract or any other contract as your unique circumstances will differ from those of others who may be used for example purposes in this article.

The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease; it is not intended to offer any legal opinion or advice or a substitute for professional safety or care advice. Please consult your health care provider, attorney, insurance expert, or product manual for professional advice. Products and services reviewed are provided by third parties; we are not responsible in any way for them, nor do we guarantee their functionality, utility, safety, or reliability. Our content is for educational purposes only.

1 Comment

  1. Great information! I do have insurance on my dog, but in 2.9 years they have rejected everything! Thankfully she hasn’t had major issues, I thought that they paid to have her fixed and teeth cleaning, but they don’t, so this information is very valuable. I do not use any of the ones listed, so I will be checking them out. I only pay $29.00 a month, that is the reason I chose it. However the main reason is because when my fur baby before this one got sick, I couldn’t afford to save her life!!!! I don’t know if that was a factor, but when the vet had “THE TALK “ with me I was devastated. I took her home anyway and she passed 4 days later! I did have to ask my family for help to pay her bill and have her cremated! I highly suggest that you have insurance. In my opinion it’s better to have insurance, even if it only handles emergencies. You don’t want to live with the guilt of thinking that “WHAT IF”….

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