What’s Driving Your Pet Insurance Price?
Most people don’t focus purely on the cost when choosing what breed of dog to get. However, cost can be a big factor. Research has found that the average amount spent for a dog and its care throughout its lifetime is $28,000.[1]
When choosing a dog, many people consider the cost of food, grooming, and routine vet care. But one often-overlooked expense is pet insurance. Of course, not everyone opts for pet insurance, but the number is increasing by about 17% of insured pets a year.
However, the cost is not the same for all dogs. Monthly premiums can vary significantly depending on the breed, mainly due to the breed’s risk profile for injuries and hereditary health issues.
Here’s a breakdown of the most and least expensive dog breeds to insure and why breed matters when it comes to your pet insurance premiums.
Why Does Breed Matter?
According to the American Kennel Club, there are 201 recognized dog breeds, each with their own unique characteristics.[2] Unfortunately, in addition to appearance and temperament characteristics, some breeds are more prone to health conditions or long-term care needs.
Insurers base premiums on a breed’s statistical risk of illness, injury, and long-term conditions, which means:
- Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds often cost more due to respiratory problems.
- Large or giant breeds cost more to treat and have shorter lifespans.
- Breeds with known genetic disorders like hip dysplasia, epilepsy or cancer risk typically have higher premiums.
- Mixed breeds often cost less because they are statistically less likely to inherit specific genetic conditions.
Most Expensive Dog Breeds to Insure
These breeds are known for many wonderful traits but also come with higher health risks, leading to more costly insurance.
Least Expensive Dog Breeds to Insure
If responsibly bred, these breeds generally enjoy better overall health, fewer genetic problems and longer lifespans, which means lower insurance premiums.
Wrapping up
Of course, breed isn’t the only criterion that will impact the quotes you get. The age and overall health of your pet will factor in as well, and where you live will affect how much you pay for pet insurance.
If you’re considering getting pet insurance, it’s worth researching your dog’s breed-specific risks and getting quotes in advance. Even if you own a more expensive breed, insurance can save you thousands over your dog’s lifetime—especially if unexpected health issues arise.
And if you’re still choosing a breed, considering insurance costs upfront can help you plan for long-term pet care expenses.