Owe is a content writer, although we suspect you'd rather hear about his pets. He lives with two cats – Niblet and Slinky – and a cavalier called Momo.
Just like people, dogs can get sick or have accidents. If that happens, you’ll want to make sure they get the best care possible without worrying about the cost.
There’s no NHS for dogs, so having dog insurance can help you avoid difficult decisions when your dog needs medical attention.
> Does insurance cover behavioural treatment and complementary therapies? > What if my pet is lost or stolen?
Dogs can develop many of the same illnesses as humans. These conditions may be inherited, appear suddenly, or develop as they get older.
According to information published in 2021 by VetCompass, part of The Royal Veterinary College (RVC), the most common disorders diagnosed in dogs in the UK are:
Treating these issues can be costly over time, especially if they recur. Remember, most insurers won’t cover pre-existing conditions – only new illnesses that appear after the policy starts.
Even healthy, young dogs can get into trouble.
Vet bills can add up quickly. Simple fracture treatment can start around £2,000, and more complex surgery can cost much more.
Some owners choose to save money instead of taking out insurance. But vet costs are rising, and treatments are becoming more advanced and expensive.
Self-insuring carries the risk that you might not have enough money if your dog suddenly needs care, potentially forcing compromises on treatment or leaving you in debt.
You also won’t be covered if someone chooses to take legal action against your dog, and legal costs can be high. On the other hand, certain pet insurance policies can protect you financially for third-party liability (although always check a policy covers this when you’re thinking about getting insurance).
Dog insurance isn’t just for medical care. Policies can sometimes include cover for:
Always check the policy carefully to see what’s included and what’s optional.
It’s impossible to predict when a dog might fall ill or have an accident. Many providers offer insurance for puppies from as young as four weeks.
Some insurers limit cover for older dogs, pre-existing conditions or have strict exclusions. Choosing cover early often means better protection.
The right level of cover depends on your dog’s needs. The cheapest policy may not cover all treatments.
Consider:
Dog insurance prices vary depending on:
If you’re unsure what type of policy is right, check our guide to choosing the best pet insurance.
As dogs get older, they’re more likely to develop health issues. Insurance can still be worth it, even for older dogs.
Some providers may limit cover, add extra fees or restrict pre-existing condition cover. Always check the terms carefully
Routine dental care is often excluded as preventative treatment. Keeping up with home oral hygiene can help avoid expensive vet treatments.
Routine procedures like neutering (spaying or castration) are usually not covered, as they’re considered standard care.
Most insurers class vaccinations as routine care, so they typically won’t cover puppy vaccinations or annual booster vaccines.
Some policies may cover behavioural treatments or things such as physiotherapy, acupuncture or hydrotherapy, as advised by a vet. It’s worth checking before buying a plan.
Some insurance policies offer cover for lost or stolen pets, sometimes as an optional extra (as is the case with Petgevity policies). This can include advertising costs, rewards or compensation if your dog isn’t recovered. Coverage varies, so always check the policy details carefully.