What is pet insurance for dogs and why do you need it?

Pet insurance for dogs helps you avoid unexpected veterinarian bills that can pop up in certain situations, like if your pet has to have emergency surgery or faces a chronic illness. These plans let you pay affordable monthly premiums in exchange for coverage, and they provide considerable peace of mind as a result.

Pet insurance plans can work differently depending on the provider you go with and the specifics of your policy. Make sure to compare pet insurance based on additional factors outside of monthly premiums, including the deductible required, annual coverage limits, excluded medical conditions, waiting periods, and more.

What is pet insurance for dogs?

Definition: Pet insurance for dogs is a health coverage plan that reimburses veterinary costs for accidents, illnesses, and optional wellness treatments like spaying/neutering or dental care. When you purchase pet insurance for dogs, you'll want to understand the following terms:

• Premium: The monthly premium you pay for pet insurance locks in this important coverage.
• Deductible: You typically have to pay a deductible before your coverage kicks in. Depending on the policy you choose, the deductible amount can range from $0 to $1,000.
• Reimbursement percentage: Once you meet your deductible and pay for your pet's medical care, you'll typically be reimbursed a percentage of the amount you paid. Most pet insurance reimbursement levels fall between 70% and 90%.
• Annual coverage limits: While some pet insurance for dogs comes with unlimited coverage, annual limits can apply. Depending on the plan, annual coverage limits can range from $5,000 to $10,000 per year or higher.

Once you file a claim with your pet insurance company, the insurer reimburses you or pays the vet directly.

How much does dog insurance cost in the USA?

Cost Trends and Context

• Average cost: Accident-and-illness plans ~ $53/month; accident-only plans ~ $16.70/month; overall average ~ $88/month.
• Other estimates: Average premiums around $56/month for dogs—varies by breed, age, plan type, and deductible.

How does dog insurance work?

Pet insurance for dogs comes in several different forms, with some types offering coverage for more types of ailments than others. Common types of pet insurance for canines include:

• Accident-only: This type of pet insurance covers injuries that result from accidents only and has the lowest monthly premiums.
• Accident & Illness: This broad coverage can kick in to pay for illnesses, injuries, and emergencies.
• Comprehensive with wellness: This type of accident and illness plan also adds preventive care (dental, vaccines, spay/neuter).
• Key terms: Key pet insurance plans to understand include premium, deductible, reimbursement rate, coverage limits, waiting periods, and exclusions, such as pre-existing conditions.

How to choose the right policy

The following tips can help you find the right pet insurance policy for your beloved family friend.

• Compare plans: Always compare coverage for breed-specific issues, waiting periods, claim speed, and how companies handle pre-existing conditions.
• Consider cost: Lemonade is known for offering low-cost and speedy coverage, Spot works well for senior pets, and Healthy Paws offers unlimited coverage.
• Assess policy details: Remember to compare policies based on the actual coverage you'll get, including the deductible you need to pay, your reimbursement level, and the policy limits that apply.

What are common mistakes to avoid?

If you want to get the most out of pet insurance, make sure to avoid these common mistakes:

• Assuming everything is covered: Most plans exclude pre-existing conditions and preventive care unless coverage is added separately.
• Ignoring waiting periods: Coverage may not begin immediately, and you'll want to understand any waiting periods that apply.
• Not comparing cost vs. coverage: Reimbursement rates, limits, and deductibles vary widely across pet insurance companies.

Final takeaway

Pet insurance for dogs offers peace of mind and financial protection for veterinarian bills you can't always plan for. Start coverage early to reduce pre-existing limitations, compare providers and plan types, and select the coverage that aligns with your dog’s health needs and your budget.

*A 30-day money-back guarantee is not available if claims have been filed.