17 Best Pet Insurance For Dogs: Insurance Reviews

Best Pet Insurance For Dogs. Dogs are more than just pets; they are loyal companions, furry family members, and best friends. As a dog owner, you want to give your dog the best possible care and quality of life. But sometimes, accidents happen, illnesses strike, or chronic conditions develop that require expensive veterinary treatment. That’s where pet insurance for dogs can help.

Pet insurance for dogs is a type of insurance that covers some or most of the costs of veterinary care when your dog gets sick or injured. Depending on the plan you choose pet insurance for dogs can reimburse you for a percentage of the vet bills after you pay a deductible or pay the vet directly on your behalf. Pet insurance for dogs can also cover preventive care, such as vaccinations, dental cleaning, and wellness exams, depending on the plan and the provider.

Pet insurance for dogs can save you money and reduce stress when your dog needs medical attention. It can also give you peace of mind knowing that you can afford the best treatment for your dog without breaking the bank. However, not all pet insurance plans for dogs are created equal. There are many factors to consider when choosing the best pet insurance for dogs, such as coverage, exclusions, limits, deductibles, reimbursement rates, customer service, discounts, and more. You also need to compare different pet insurance companies and plans to find the one that suits your dog’s needs and your budget.

In this article, we’ll review some of the best pet insurance companies and plans for dogs based on our research and analysis. We’ll also explain how pet insurance for dogs works, what it covers and what it doesn’t, how much it costs, and how to choose the right plan for your dog. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of pet insurance for dogs and how it can benefit you and your canine companion.

What is Pet Insurance for?

Pet insurance is a type of health insurance for your pets. It can cover costs associated with certain unexpected illnesses and injuries that your pet may suffer. This can help make health care for your dog or cat more affordable and give you peace of mind. Pet insurance can also cover preventive care, dental care, and behavioral issues, depending on the policy you choose.

There are different types of pet insurance policies that offer different levels of coverage and cost. The most common types are:

Read Also: Do I Need Lifetime Pet Insurance

• Lifetime policy: This covers your pet for their whole life for most of their medical needs and includes cover for any conditions that your pet may develop while you’re insured.
• Time limited policy: This covers your pet for a fixed sum for each illness or injury they get, but only for a limited term per condition (usually 12 months).
• Per condition policy: This covers your pet for a fixed amount per condition they get, but there is no time limit on how long you can claim.
• Accident only policy: This covers your pet only if they have been injured in an accident, but not for any illnesses.

What are some common dog health problems?

Some common dog health problems based on the following:

• Skin Issues: These can cause itching, scratching, redness, inflammation, flaking, scaling, hair loss, and infections. They can be caused by allergies, parasites, fungal or bacterial infections, hormonal disorders, or immune-mediated diseases.
• Ear Infections: These can cause head shaking, ear scratching, ear odor, discharge, redness, swelling, pain, and balance problems. They can be caused by allergies, yeast, ear mites, bacteria, foreign bodies, or excess moisture.
• Urinary Tract Infections: These can cause inappropriate urination, frequent urination, increased thirst, bloody urine, and lethargy. They can be caused by bacteria, bladder stones, tumors, or other underlying conditions.
• Vomiting: This can be a sign of toxicity, gastrointestinal blockage, pancreatitis, kidney disease, liver disease, or other serious illnesses. It can also be caused by dietary indiscretion, stress, motion sickness, or parasites.
• Diarrhea: This can accompany vomiting or occur on its own. It can be a sign of infection, inflammation, food intolerance, parasites, or other diseases. It can also cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
• Gum Disease: This is a common dental problem that affects most dogs by the age of three. It can cause bad breath, plaque buildup, tartar formation, gingivitis, periodontitis, tooth loss, and infections. It can also affect the heart and other organs.

If your dog shows any signs of these or other health problems, you should consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. Regular wellness exams and preventive care can help keep your dog healthy and happy.

How Can I Prevent Dog Health Problems?

Some ways to prevent dog health problems based include:

• Visit your veterinarian regularly for wellness exams and vaccinations. Your vet can detect and treat any health issues before they become serious and advise you on the best preventive care for your dog.
• Feed your dog a balanced and high-quality diet that meets their nutritional needs. Avoid overfeeding or giving too many treats, as obesity can lead to many health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.
• Provide your dog with fresh water at all times and keep them hydrated, especially in hot weather or after exercise. Dehydration can cause kidney problems, heatstroke, and other issues.
• Brush your dog’s teeth daily or as often as possible, using a toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Dental hygiene can prevent gum disease, tooth loss, bad breath, and infections that can affect the heart and other organs.
• Groom your dog regularly and check their skin, coat, ears, eyes, nails, and anal glands for any signs of problems. Use a vet-recommended shampoo and conditioner to keep their skin and coat healthy and avoid parasites, infections, allergies, and hot spots.
• Protect your dog from fleas, ticks, worms, and other parasites by using appropriate preventive products such as collars, oral medications, shampoos, sprays, or topical liquids. Parasites can cause itching, scratching, anemia, infections, and transmit diseases.
• Exercise your dog daily according to their age, breed, size, and energy level. Physical activity can keep your dog fit, strong, flexible, and mentally stimulated. It can also prevent boredom, stress, anxiety, and behavioral problems.
• Socialize your dog from an early age and expose them to different people, animals, places, and situations. This can help them develop confidence, trust, and coping skills. It can also prevent fearfulness, aggression, and phobias.
• Train your dog using positive reinforcement methods and teach them basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leave it. This can help you communicate with your dog better and keep them safe in various situations. It can also strengthen your bond with your dog and make them happier.
• Keep your dog away from potential hazards such as toxic plants, foods, chemicals, medications, or objects that they can swallow or choke on. Also avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or loud noises that can cause stress or injury.

These are some general tips to prevent dog health problems. However, each dog is different and may have specific needs or risks depending on their breed, age, sex, health status, lifestyle, and environment. Therefore, you should always consult your veterinarian for the best advice on how to keep your dog healthy and safe.

How Often Should I Take my Dog to the Vet?

The frequency of taking your dog to the vet depends on their age, health status, and risk factors. However, some general guidelines are:

• Puppies: You should take your puppy to the vet a few times during their first six months for check-ups, vaccinations, deworming, microchipping, and other preventive care.
• Adult Dogs: You should take your adult dog to the vet at least once a year for wellness exams, vaccinations, blood and urine tests, and other preventive care. You may need to take them more often if they have any health issues or special needs.
• Senior Dogs: You should take your senior dog to the vet at least twice a year for wellness exams, vaccinations, blood and urine tests, and other preventive care. You may need to take them more often if they show any signs of illness or injury.

These are some general recommendations. However, you should always follow your veterinarian’s advice on how often to take your dog to the vet, as they know your dog’s individual needs and risks best.

What are Some Common Dog Breeds?

There are many dog breeds in the world, and different sources may have different ways of classifying them. However, based on our research, some common dog breeds are:

• Labrador Retriever: This is the most popular dog breed in the USA, Canada, and the UK according to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), and the UK Kennel Club (UKC) respectively. Labrador Retrievers are friendly, loyal, intelligent, and energetic dogs that excel in various activities such as hunting, retrieving, agility, and service work.
• German Shepherd: This is another popular and versatile dog breed that ranks high in many countries. German Shepherds are loyal, courageous, confident, and smart dogs that are often used for police, military, and rescue work. They also make great family pets and companions.
• Poodle: This is a breed that comes in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. Poodles are elegant, intelligent, active, and hypoallergenic dogs that can adapt to various lifestyles and environments. They are also good at many sports and activities such as obedience, agility, tracking, and herding.
• Golden Retriever: This is a breed that is known for its friendly, gentle, and cheerful personality. Golden Retrievers are affectionate, loyal, and eager to please their owners. They are also good at retrieving, hunting, service work, and therapy work.
• Beagle: This is a breed that is known for its cute appearance, curious nature, and strong sense of smell. Beagles are playful, friendly, and sociable dogs that love to explore and sniff around. They are also good at hunting rabbits and other small game.
• Yorkshire Terrier: This is a breed that belongs to the toy group of dogs. Yorkshire Terriers are small, lively, and feisty dogs that have long silky coats that require regular grooming. They are also affectionate, loyal, and brave dogs that make good watchdogs and companions.
• Boxer: This is a breed that belongs to the working group of dogs. Boxers are muscular, athletic, and powerful dogs that have short coats that come in various colors. They are also playful, loyal, protective, and energetic dogs that need plenty of exercise and stimulation.
• Shih Tzu: This is a breed that belongs to the toy group of dogs. Shih Tzus are small, fluffy, and adorable dogs that have long silky coats that come in various colors. They are also affectionate, loyal, lively, and friendly dogs that make good lapdogs and companions.
• Dachshund: This is a breed that comes in three varieties: standard, miniature, and kaninchen (rabbit). Dachshunds have long bodies and short legs that give them a unique appearance. They are also brave, curious, stubborn, and loyal dogs that were originally bred for hunting badgers and other burrowing animals.
• Miniature Schnauzer: This is a breed that belongs to the terrier group of dogs. Miniature Schnauzers have wiry coats that come in various colors and distinctive beards and eyebrows. They are also intelligent, alert, spirited, and friendly dogs that make good watchdogs and companions.

These are some of the common dog breeds based on our research. However, there are many more dog breeds in the world that have different characteristics and qualities.

Read More: Do I Need Lifetime Pet Insurance

What are the 4 types of Pet Insurance?

How do I Claim my Pet?

The answer to your question depends on whether you have pet insurance or not. If you do, you will need to follow the steps below to claim your pet expenses:

• Pay the veterinarian bill right after the visit.
• Complete a pet insurance claim form. You can find it on your insurer’s website or app, or download and print it out.
• Submit the claim and supporting documentation to the insurer via an app, online portal, email, fax, or mail. You may need to include receipts, medical records, and diagnosis codes from your vet.
• Once you submit a claim and it’s approved, you’ll get reimbursement via direct deposit or check. The amount will depend on your deductible, reimbursement level, and policy limit.

If you don’t have pet insurance, you will have to pay for your pet’s treatment out of pocket. You may be able to find some financial assistance programs or charities that can help you with the costs, but they are not guaranteed. You can search online for “pet financial aid” or “pet charities” to see if there are any options in your area.

Learn More: Do I Need Lifetime Pet Insurance

Reviews of 17 Best Pet Insurance for Dogs

• Embrace

A comprehensive and customizable pet insurance plan that covers accidents, illnesses, dental care, and wellness rewards. Embrace offers a range of deductibles, reimbursement rates, and annual limits to suit your budget and needs. You can also get discounts for multiple pets, paying annually, and being a member of certain organizations. Embrace has a high customer satisfaction rating and a fast claims process. You can learn more at https://www.embracepetinsurance.com/.

• ManyPets

A flexible and affordable pet insurance option that lets you choose your deductible, reimbursement rate, and annual limit. ManyPets covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions, alternative therapies, and behavioral issues. You can also add preventive care coverage for an extra fee. ManyPets has a low monthly cost for unlimited annual coverage and a 24/7 helpline for pet health questions. You can learn more at https://manypets.com/.

• Spot

A personalized and easy-to-use pet insurance solution that offers preventive care coverage and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Spot covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions, chronic conditions, and prescription medications. You can customize your plan with different deductibles, reimbursement rates, and annual limits. Spot also has a partnership with Cesar Millan, a famous dog trainer and behaviorist.

• Pumpkin

A preventive and protective pet insurance plan that includes annual wellness exams, vaccines, and parasite prevention. Pumpkin covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions, dental disease, and behavioral issues. You can choose from three deductible options and get reimbursed at 90% for covered expenses. Pumpkin also has a mobile app and a 24/7 vet chat service. You can learn more at https://www.pumpkin.care/.

• Figo

A modern and digital pet insurance provider that features a mobile app, 24/7 virtual vet visits, and no network restrictions. Figo covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions, chronic conditions, emergency boarding fees, and lost pet advertising. You can choose from three plans with different annual limits and customize your deductible and reimbursement rate. Figo also has a short waiting period for accident coverage (three days) and a generous coverage for exam fees. You can learn more at https://figopetinsurance.com/.

• Lemonade

A fast and simple pet insurance service that uses artificial intelligence to process claims and offers optional wellness packages. Lemonade covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions, diagnostic tests, surgery, hospitalization, and medication. You can adjust your deductible, reimbursement rate, and annual limit to fit your budget. Lemonade also has a low price for kittens and puppies and a social impact program that donates unused premiums to animal charities. You can learn more at https://www.lemonade.com/pet.

• Pets Best

A reliable and trusted pet insurance company that has been in business since 2005 and offers accident-only and accident-and-illness plans. Pets Best covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions, cancer treatments, acupuncture, chiropractic care, and euthanasia. You can also add routine care coverage for an extra fee. Pets Best has a wide range of deductibles ($50 to $1,000) and reimbursement rates (70% to 90%) to choose from. You can learn more at https://www.petsbest.com/.

• Trupanion

Trupanion covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions, dental illnesses, prosthetic devices, and supplements. You can also add recovery and complementary care coverage for an extra fee. Trupanion has a flexible deductible ($0 to $1,000) that you can adjust for each condition. Trupanion also has a direct payment option that allows them to pay your vet directly at the time of service. You can learn more at https://trupanion.com/.

• MetLife

A well-known and reputable pet insurance provider that offers comprehensive coverage for dogs of all ages and breeds. MetLife covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions, dental disease, alternative therapies, and behavioral issues. You can also add preventive care coverage for an extra fee. MetLife has a range of deductibles ($50 to $1,000), reimbursement rates (70% to 90%), and annual limits ($2,500 to unlimited) to choose from. MetLife also offers lots of potential discounts for multiple pets, microchipping, spaying/neutering, and more. You can learn more at https://www.metlife.com/.

• AKC

A pet insurance plan that is affiliated with the American Kennel Club and offers coverage for congenital and hereditary conditions, as well as exam fees. AKC covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions, chronic conditions, and prescription medications. You can customize your plan with different deductibles ($100 to $1,000), reimbursement rates (70% to 90%), and annual limits ($2,500 to $16,000). AKC also has a short waiting period for accident coverage (one day) and a loyalty discount for renewing your policy. You can learn more at https://www.akcpetinsurance.com/.

• ASPCA

A humane and charitable pet insurance plan that supports the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and offers a 10% discount for multiple pets. ASPCA covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions, dental disease, behavioral issues, and microchip implantation. You can also add preventive care coverage for an extra fee. ASPCA has a range of deductibles ($100 to $500), reimbursement rates (70% to 90%), and annual limits ($3,000 to unlimited) to choose from. ASPCA also has a short waiting period for accident coverage (14 days) and a simple enrollment process. You can learn more at https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/.

• Hartville

A partner of the ASPCA that offers the same coverage options and benefits, but with a different branding and customer service. Hartville covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions, dental disease, behavioral issues, and microchip implantation. You can also add preventive care coverage for an extra fee. Hartville has a range of deductibles ($100 to $500), reimbursement rates (70% to 90%), and annual limits ($3,000 to unlimited) to choose from. Hartville also has a short waiting period for accident coverage (14 days) and a simple enrollment process. You can learn more at https://www.hartvillepetinsurance.com/.

• Healthy Paws

Healthy Paws covers accidents, illnesses, surgeries, prescriptions, and alternative therapies. Healthy Paws has no annual or lifetime limits and reimburses you at 70%, 80%, or 90% of covered expenses. Healthy Paws also has a low deductible ($100, $250, or $500) that applies per year, not per incident. Healthy Paws also has a mobile app and a foundation that helps homeless pets. You can learn more at https://www.healthypawspetinsurance.com/.

• Nationwide

A large and established pet insurance provider that offers three levels of coverage: major medical, whole pet with wellness, and pet wellness. Nationwide covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary and congenital conditions, chronic conditions, dental cleaning, vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and more. Nationwide has a range of deductibles ($100 to $1,000), reimbursement rates (50% to 90%), and annual limits ($2,000 to unlimited) to choose from. Nationwide also has a multi-pet discount and a vet helpline.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pet insurance can be a valuable investment for dog owners who want to protect their furry friends from unexpected medical expenses. There are many pet insurance companies and plans to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The best pet insurance for dogs depends on your budget, preferences, and needs. Some of the factors to consider when comparing pet insurance plans are the coverage options, the deductible, the reimbursement rate, the annual limit, the waiting periods, the discounts, and the customer service. By doing your research and comparing quotes, you can find the best pet insurance for your dog and enjoy peace of mind.