When it comes to insuring your furry friend, some dog breeds come with higher price tags than others. Recent data from pet insurance experts at Quotezone sheds light on the most expensive breeds to insure in the UK, with Bullmastiffs, Great Danes, and Irish Setters topping the list. Here’s a breakdown of why these breeds carry such hefty premiums and tips to help you save on pet insurance costs.
Why Are Some Dog Breeds More Expensive to Insure?
Insurance costs vary significantly by breed due to factors such as:
- Health Risks: Certain breeds are prone to hereditary conditions like joint issues, heart problems, or digestive disorders.
- Size: Larger breeds often require more medical care due to their susceptibility to specific health challenges.
- Behavioural Risks: Guarding and working breeds may be considered higher risk by insurers.
- Claim History: Breeds with a history of frequent or costly claims often attract higher premiums.
Additionally, the age of the dog influences insurance rates, as older pets are more likely to require frequent medical care.
Read More: Keeping Your Dog Active All Day: Tips for a Happy and Healthy Pooch
The Top 5 Most Expensive Breeds to Insure
Bullmastiff
- Average Annual Premium: £286
- Known for their loyalty and protective nature, Bullmastiffs face health challenges like joint issues and heart problems, driving up insurance costs.
Great Dane
- Average Annual Premium: £271
- As one of the tallest dog breeds, Great Danes are prone to health concerns such as hip dysplasia and bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus), both of which can result in expensive vet bills.
Irish Setter
- Average Annual Premium: £205
- This breed is loved for its energy and friendliness but is susceptible to conditions like hip dysplasia and epilepsy.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Average Annual Premium: £204
- These athletic dogs often face health concerns like dermoid sinus and elbow dysplasia.
Weimaraner
- Average Annual Premium: £195
- Weimaraners are prone to issues such as bloat and joint problems, leading to higher premiums.
Read More: 4 High-Maintenance Dog Breeds And How To Care For Them
Full List: The 20 Most Expensive Breeds to Insure
Dog Breed | Average Annual Premium (£) |
---|---|
Bullmastiff | 286.20 |
Great Dane | 271.20 |
Irish Setter | 205.42 |
Rhodesian Ridgeback | 204.25 |
Weimaraner | 194.88 |
Boxer | 174.26 |
Basset Hound | 172.31 |
German Shepherd Dog Cross | 170.77 |
Shetland Sheepdog | 165.08 |
Hungarian Vizsla | 161.40 |
Dorset Old Tyme Bulldog | 159.72 |
Dogue de Bordeaux | 157.08 |
Flat Coated Retriever | 154.63 |
Collie (Rough) | 153.98 |
Siberian Husky | 153.12 |
Bearded Collie | 151.63 |
Bernese Mountain Dog | 150.26 |
Greyhound | 150.26 |
Alaskan Malamute | 149.16 |
Bernese Mountain Dog Cross | 147.78 |
Read More: Antiseptic Cream for Dogs: Can You Use Sudocream or Savlon?
Tips for Saving on Pet Insurance for Expensive Breeds
If you own or plan to adopt one of these breeds, here are some ways to lower your insurance costs:
- Stay on Top of Routine Care: Regular check-ups and vaccinations can help prevent larger health issues and reduce claims.
- Adjust the Excess: Opting for a higher excess can lower your premiums, though you should ensure you can afford the out-of-pocket cost when needed.
- Consider Multi-Pet Policies: Insuring multiple pets under one policy often results in discounts.
- Pay Annually: Paying annually rather than monthly helps avoid interest charges, reducing overall costs.
- Spay or Neuter Your Pet: This can reduce behavioural and health risks, making your pet less costly to insure.
- Shop Around: Comparing quotes from multiple insurers is essential to finding the best deal.
Choosing the Right Pet Insurance
When selecting insurance, it’s crucial to understand the different types of coverage available:
- Accident-Only Policies: Covers injuries but not illnesses.
- Time-Limited Policies: Covers conditions up to a set time or limit.
- Maximum Benefit Policies: Covers conditions up to a certain cost.
- Lifetime Policies: Offers comprehensive coverage for ongoing issues.
Greg Wilson, CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, advises:
“Research the breed you’re considering and ensure your insurance policy covers common hereditary conditions. Comprehensive insurance provides peace of mind, especially as pets age or face unexpected health issues.”
Final Thoughts
Owning a dog is a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to budget for all aspects of their care, including insurance. By understanding breed-specific risks and exploring ways to save, you can ensure your pet gets the care it needs without breaking the bank.