If you’re a pet owner, you’ve probably wondered “How to get dog insurance?” as veterinary costs continue rising every year. From accidental injuries to long-term illnesses, dog medical treatment can become expensive without proper financial protection.
That’s why more pet owners in 2025 are purchasing pet insurance for dogs to safeguard both their dog’s health and their wallets.
This, SEO-friendly guide explains how to buy dog insurance, what documents you need, how much it costs, and how to choose the best dog insurance plan—with high CPC keywords placed naturally.
What Is Dog Insurance and Why Do You Need It?
Dog insurance, also known as pet health insurance, is a policy that helps cover veterinary expenses such as:
- Accidents
- Illnesses
- Surgeries
- Diagnostics (X-rays, blood tests, MRI)
- Hospitalization
- Emergency care
Depending on the insurer, you can also add wellness coverage for vaccinations, routine checkups, dental cleaning, flea & tick prevention, and more.
With vet bills increasing, dog insurance ensures you never have to choose between your dog’s health and financial stress.
How to Get Dog Insurance: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Understand What Dog Insurance Covers
Before buying a policy, learn about the types of dog insurance plans available:
- Accident-Only – Covers injuries like fractures, ingestion, bites, accidents, etc.
- Accident + Illness – Includes infections, allergies, cancer, digestive issues, chronic diseases.
- Comprehensive Plans – Covers accident + illness + preventive and wellness care.
Knowing what each plan includes will help you choose the best dog insurance plan for your pet.
Step 2: Compare the Best Dog Insurance Companies
To get the best deal, compare multiple providers. Popular dog insurance companies include:
- Healthy Paws
- Embrace
- Lemonade
- Spot Pet Insurance
- Trupanion
- Fetch by The Dodo
- Figo
- Pets Best
Visit their websites and compare:
- Monthly premiums
- Coverage limits
- Deductibles
- Reimbursement options
- Waiting periods
- Exclusions
Comparing these details will help you find affordable dog insurance that fits your needs.
Step 3: Get Free Online Quotes
The easiest way to get dog insurance is to use the online quote tools offered by every insurer.
You simply enter:
- Your dog’s name
- Dog’s breed
- Dog’s age
- Your ZIP code
- Preferred coverage level
Most companies instantly show how much pet insurance for dogs will cost monthly or annually.
This is the fastest step in learning how to get dog insurance online.
Step 4: Choose Your Coverage Level
Most companies let you customize your policy. Select the following:
1. Annual Coverage Limit
Choose from:
- $5,000
- $10,000
- Unlimited
Unlimited coverage is the safest option for major illnesses.
2. Deductible Amount
Common choices:
- $100
- $250
- $500
- $1,000
A higher deductible means lower dog insurance cost.
3. Reimbursement Percentage
Options often include:
- 70%
- 80%
- 90%
Higher reimbursement = higher premium but lower out-of-pocket expenses at the vet.
Step 5: Submit Basic Information
When you buy dog insurance, you’ll need to fill out details like:
- Dog’s age, weight, and breed
- Pre-existing medical conditions (if any)
- Previous vet visits
- Ownership information
- Address and contact details
This determines eligibility and pricing.
Step 6: Review the Policy Terms Carefully
This step is very important. Before buying, check:
- Waiting periods (usually 2–14 days)
- What illnesses and treatments are covered
- Which conditions are excluded
- Does the plan cover hereditary or chronic issues?
- Are dental illnesses included?
- Does it cover hip dysplasia or cancer?
This ensures you choose the best insurance plan for your dog’s needs.
Step 7: Purchase the Plan
After selecting the coverage, simply:
- Enter your payment details
- Complete checkout
- Receive your policy via email
Most insurers activate accident coverage within 48 hours and illness coverage after 14 days.
Congratulations—now you officially know how to get dog insurance in the simplest way possible.
How Much Does Dog Insurance Cost?
The cost varies, but the average pet insurance cost for dogs in 2025 is:
- $15–$25 per month for Accident-Only
- $30–$70 per month for Accident + Illness
- $60–$120 per month for Full Coverage (with Wellness)
Prices increase for older dogs or high-risk breeds such as:
- French Bulldogs
- Golden Retrievers
- German Shepherds
- Rottweilers
Mixed breeds and smaller dogs often get cheaper premiums.
Documents Needed to Get Dog Insurance
You usually need:
- Dog’s age proof (vet records)
- Health history
- Vaccination records (optional)
- Microchip number (if available)
- Your contact information
Most companies do not require a physical exam before buying.
What Does Dog Insurance Not Cover?
Typical exclusions include:
- Pre-existing conditions
- Cosmetic procedures
- Pregnancy & breeding
- Behavioral training (some plans cover this)
- Grooming
- Food and supplements
Reading these exclusions is essential before buying pet health insurance for dogs.
Benefits of Getting Dog Insurance Early
- Lower premiums
- Fewer pre-existing exclusions
- Lifetime coverage for chronic illnesses
- Faster approval
- Better reimbursement rates
Insuring your dog at a young age locks in cheaper rates.
How to Choose the Best Dog Insurance Plan
Use these tips to select the best option:
✔ Choose Accident + Illness plan
This gives the best balance of affordability and protection.
✔ Look for unlimited annual coverage
High-value vet bills are fully reimbursed.
✔ Pick a trusted insurer
Read customer reviews and claim speed ratings.
✔ Check for 24/7 tele-vet access
Some insurers offer free online vet consultations.
Final Thoughts: How to Get Dog Insurance Easily
Getting dog insurance in 2025 is easy if you follow these steps:
- Understand the types of coverage
- Compare top dog insurance providers
- Request free quotes
- Customize your policy
- Review coverage details
- Purchase the plan online
Once you buy the policy, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your dog is protected against unexpected medical expenses. With rising vet bills, investing in the best dog insurance plan is one of the smartest decisions you can make as a pet owner.
