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In 2024, the pet insurance market has evolved to meet the varying needs of dog owners, emphasizing the necessity for affordable yet comprehensive coverage. As veterinary costs climb, selecting the right insurance becomes crucial for managing expenses while ensuring pets receive the best possible care. This article highlights the top nine pet insurance companies for dogs, chosen for their competitive premiums, extensive coverage, and positive customer feedback. These insurers stand out for their ability to cater to a wide range of health needs, from emergency services to wellness and chronic condition management.

Featuring a mix of industry veterans and innovative newcomers, this guide aims to help dog owners find a policy that offers the best value and protection for their beloved pets, ensuring peace of mind in a rapidly changing pet care landscape.

9 Best Pet Insurance Companies for Dogs in 2024

#1 – Lemonade Pet Insurance

Lemonade makes our list of the best insurance for dogs because they’ve created a hassle-free insurance experience built for the 21st century. When you download the Lemonade app or visit their website, you can sign up in seconds and cover your dog with a plan tailored to your needs and budget. And with a choice of coverage caps that runs up to $100,000, you can create a budget-friendly dog insurance plan while creating financial peace of mind.

Unlike other insurance companies, Lemonade is insurance driven by social good. Lemonade donates unclaimed premiums to charities chosen by policyholders, including to several animal rights causes.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $20.00 per month

Use this link to take advantage of the best possible price. No promo code needed.

#2 – Embrace Pet Insurance

Embrace allows you to choose annual coverage maximums between $5,000 – $30,000.  Coverage for exam fees will also bring you average savings of $50-$250 every time you visit the vet. And having a healthy pup earns you discounts with Embrace because every year your dog makes it without insurance reimbursement, you’ll get $50 off your deductible. Pre-existing conditions that prove curable are eligible for coverage after twelve months of your dog being symptom and treatment free.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $42.35 per month

#3 – Many Pets

With Many Pets, you can visit any licensed veterinarian, and there are no caps on payouts, copays, or care. Bloodwork, lab work, imaging scans, medications, surgery, in-office procedures, and hospitalizations, including emergency care, are all covered with Many Pets. And unlike many of their competitors, they cover curable pre-existing conditions once your dog has been free of symptoms and without treatment for eighteen months, excluding cruciate ligament injuries or hip dysplasia.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example – $30.00 per month

#4 – Trupanion Pet Insurance

Trupanion gives you control by eliminating confusing deductibles and letting you choose the percentage of the covered costs. While they don’t cover exam fees, preventative care, or pre-existing conditions, they do cover expenses such as diagnostics, surgery, advanced dentistry, medications, supplements, rehabilitation, and more. Your policy with Trupanion will see you reimbursed for 90% of veterinary costs from illness and injury. And you can take your pup to any veterinary, emergency care, or specialty hospital in the US, Canada, Puerto Rico, and Australia, including US and Canadian military installations. Coverage is open to all dogs and cats from birth to 14 years of age, regardless of breed.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $68.25 per month

#5 – Prudent Pet

Choose from an array of plan types, including Accident Only, Essential for injuries or illness, or Ultimate for illness and injury with unlimited annual benefits. Plans also cover hereditary and congenital conditions, dental disease, and destructive behavioral issues. And Prudent Pet never denies coverage to dogs based on their age or breed. You can also chat with a veterinarian 24/7 when you’re part of the Prudent Pet family. Plus, they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $73.46 per month

#6 – Healthy Paws Pet Insurance

Healthy Paws’ top-rated pet insurance plans for dogs cover accidents, illnesses, cancer, emergency care, genetic and hereditary conditions, breed-specific conditions, and alternative care. With five options in deductible and reimbursement amounts, you can tailor policy costs to your budget with no problems. And with no caps on annual coverage and lifetime payouts, this best pet insurance for dogs option casts off worry over big bills while letting your pup stay with the doctor they know. Healthy Paws allows the use of any licensed veterinarian.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $26.25 per month

#7 – Pets Best

Pets Best offers plans that cover accidents, illnesses, cancer, emergency care, and chronic, hereditary, and congenital conditions. And because their plans allow flexibility with customizable annual limits, annual deductibles, and 70, 80, or 90% reimbursement options, you can cover your pup’s medical bills while keeping your monthly rate low. They even offer a deductible option that’s only fifty dollars, and this ability to play with coverage options gives Pets Best an edge in the field, making them one of the best pet insurance options for dogs.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $35.81 per month

#8 – FIGO Pet Insurance

One of the best pet insurance companies on the market, FIGO offers plans that cover common illnesses, accidents, emergencies, cancer, hereditary and congenital disorders, chronic conditions, and so much more. And with a choice of $5,000 or an unlimited amount for the maximum annual coverage amount, you have the power to create a plan that fits your pup’s medical needs and your budget. And a range of deductible and reimbursement options lets you decide what you want to pay out of pocket or how much you’d like to get back from your claims. FIGO also covers pre-existing conditions considered curable if your dog shows no signs or symptoms within 12 months of treatment.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $69.30 per month

Related: Best Pet Prescription Discount Cards

#9 – Wagmo Pet Insurance

Wagmo offers a hassle-free digital experience for dog parents looking for affordable pet insurance that covers accidents and illness, plus the emergency and catastrophic care needed to treat them. And with flexible deductible options and reimbursement levels of ninety or one hundred present, you can mix and match to build your perfect package. Plus, their dog insurance plans start as low as $13 a month. In addition to covering the usuals like emergency care, imaging, cancer treatments, and hereditary and congenital conditions, Wagmo also includes coverage for prescriptions, pet ambulances, and even hip dysplasia.

Sample pet insurance plan rate for a one-year-old male medium mixed breed dog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example: $15.00 per month

The Best Pet Insurance for Dogs Is Just A Click Away

So, who’s the best pet insurance company for dogs? The answer depends on your furry friend’s needs and your budget, but surely, you’ll find the right choice for your dog’s health coverage on our list. Any of these nine companies offers a solid reputation, excellent customer care, and flexible plans to help you easily cover the vet bills.

And now that you’ve done your research, it’s time to compare the quotes. Use our handy tool to find out how much pet insurance for your dog will cost!

Frequently Asked Questions When Shopping for Pet Insurance

What does pet insurance cover?

Pet insurance typically covers unexpected veterinary costs arising from accidents and illnesses. This can include emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, diagnostic tests (like X-rays and blood tests), and sometimes alternative therapies. Coverage varies by provider, with some plans offering additional wellness or preventative care options for routine visits, vaccinations, and dental cleanings. However, pre-existing conditions, certain hereditary conditions, and routine care are often excluded from standard policies. It’s important to read the details of any plan to understand what is and isn’t covered.

How much does pet insurance cost?

The cost of pet insurance varies widely depending on several factors, including the pet’s species, breed, age, health condition, and the coverage level chosen. On average, dog owners might pay anywhere from $30 to $70 per month, while cat owners might pay between $15 and $40. Higher deductible plans generally offer lower monthly premiums, but it’s crucial to balance this with the potential out-of-pocket costs for care. Prices also vary by provider and the specifics of the coverage, such as caps on reimbursements and whether the policy covers wellness care.

Are pre-existing conditions covered by pet insurance?

Pre-existing conditions are typically not covered by pet insurance. These are defined as any condition that a pet has been diagnosed with or shown symptoms of before the coverage starts, including chronic conditions, illnesses, and injuries. Some insurers may consider covering a pre-existing condition if it’s curable and the pet has been symptom-free for a specified period, usually at least 12 months. It’s essential to disclose any pre-existing conditions when applying for insurance to ensure full transparency and avoid issues with claims.

Can I choose my own veterinarian?

Yes, most pet insurance companies allow you to choose your own veterinarian. Unlike human health insurance, which often requires you to select from a network of providers, pet insurance typically works on a reimbursement model. This means you pay the vet bills upfront, and the insurance company reimbits you for covered expenses, allowing you to go to any licensed veterinarian, emergency clinic, or specialist of your choice. This flexibility is a significant advantage for pet owners who already have a trusted vet or those who travel frequently with their pets.

How do I file a claim with pet insurance?

Filing a claim with pet insurance is generally straightforward. After paying for your pet’s treatment, you submit a claim to the insurance company, usually through an online portal, mobile app, or by mail, including itemized receipts and a copy of the vet’s notes. The insurer then evaluates the claim based on your policy’s coverage and issues a reimbursement for eligible expenses, typically within a few weeks. Some companies offer direct vet payment options, reducing the upfront costs for the pet owner. It’s essential to review your policy’s claim process and requirements to ensure a smooth experience.

What is a deductible, and how does it work?

A deductible is an amount you must pay out of pocket before your pet insurance begins to cover costs. Deductibles can be annual or per-incident, and choosing a higher deductible generally lowers your monthly premium. For example, if your policy has a $500 annual deductible, you would need to pay the first $500 of covered veterinary expenses each year before the insurance kicks in. This system allows policyholders to manage their monthly costs while still providing significant financial protection against large vet bills.

Does pet insurance cover routine wellness visits and vaccinations?

Most standard pet insurance policies do not cover routine wellness visits and vaccinations, focusing instead on unexpected injuries and illnesses. However, many companies offer wellness or preventative care packages as an add-on or separate policy. These wellness plans can cover a range of routine care expenses, including vaccinations, annual check-ups, flea and tick prevention, and dental cleanings. While these plans add to the monthly premium, they can help budget for the predictable costs of maintaining a pet’s health.

Is there an age limit for insuring my pet?

Yes, many pet insurance companies have age limits for new enrollments, typically ranging from 8 to 14 years old for dogs and cats. However, once enrolled, pets can stay covered for life, provided the policy remains active. For older pets, insurance may be more expensive and have more limited coverage options, reflecting the higher risk of health issues. Some insurers specialize in coverage for senior pets, offering tailored plans that account for their specific needs. It’s advisable to enroll pets in insurance policies when they’re young to avoid age-related restrictions and exclusions.

How do reimbursements work, and what are the reimbursement rates?

Reimbursement rates in pet insurance dictate the percentage of the vet bill that will be paid back to you after you’ve met your deductible. Common reimbursement options include 70%, 80%, and 90% of the covered expenses. For instance, if you have a policy with a 90% reimbursement rate and you submit a claim for $1,000 of eligible expenses (after your deductible has been met), you would be reimbursed $900. Policyholders can often choose their reimbursement level, with higher rates leading to higher premiums. It’s crucial to understand how your policy’s reimbursement rate affects both your out-of-pocket costs and your monthly premium.

Can I cancel my pet insurance policy at any time?

Yes, you can typically cancel your pet insurance policy at any time. Most companies allow you to cancel without penalty and will refund any unused portion of your premium if you’ve paid annually. However, it’s important to note that if you cancel and then decide to re-enroll your pet later, any condition that was covered under the previous policy may now be considered pre-existing and not eligible for coverage. Always check the cancellation policy when signing up for pet insurance to understand any potential implications fully.

PawPlan is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.