Dogs are more expensive to insure than cats — but the range is wide. Here’s what pet insurance really costs for a dog in 2026, broken down by age, breed, and plan type.
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Average Dog Insurance Cost
| Plan type | Average monthly cost |
|---|---|
| Accident & illness | $40–$70 |
| Accident-only | $10–$20 |
| With wellness add-on | +$10–$25 |
Cost by Dog’s Age
| Age | Average monthly |
|---|---|
| Puppy (under 1) | $30–$40 |
| 2–4 years | $40–$55 |
| 5–8 years | $55–$80 |
| 9+ years | $90–$135 |
The pattern is clear: the older the dog, the higher the premium. Enrolling a puppy locks in the lowest lifetime rate.
Cost by Breed
Breed has a big impact because some dogs are prone to expensive hereditary conditions.
| Breed type | Relative cost |
|---|---|
| Mixed breed (small/medium) | Lowest |
| Large breeds (Labs, Goldens) | Moderate–high |
| Purebreds (Bulldogs, German Shepherds, Great Danes) | Highest |
How to Lower Your Dog’s Premium
- Enroll while your dog is a puppy.
- Choose a higher deductible.
- Pick 70–80% reimbursement instead of 90%.
- Skip the wellness add-on if you can pay routine care yourself.
- Compare at least 3 quotes for your exact breed and ZIP code.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is dog insurance more expensive than cat insurance?
Dogs tend to have more accidents and more breed-specific health conditions, which means more claims — so premiums run higher than for cats.
Is pet insurance worth it for a healthy young dog?
Often yes — it’s the cheapest time to enroll and everything is covered before it becomes pre-existing. You’re buying low-cost protection for the years ahead.
Does neutering/spaying affect the price?
Not usually the premium itself, though some wellness add-ons help cover the cost of spay/neuter procedures. Check the plan details.