Dog insurance, explained for where you live
Policies, jargon and rules differ a lot between countries. Choose yours for local terms, regulators and providers.
Choose your country
United States
Pet insurance is regulated state by state; the NAIC Pet Insurance Model Act has been adopted by many states.
GBPUnited Kingdom
Pet insurance is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
CADCanada
Regulated provincially.
AUDAustralia
General insurance is overseen by ASIC and APRA.
NZDNew Zealand
Insurers are licensed by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand.
EURIreland
Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
EUREurope (other)
Rules vary by country.
INRIndia
Regulated by IRDAI.
Start with the basics
Cost of Treating Cancer in Dogs: Surgery, Chemo and Radiation
Lymphoma chemo averages $5,254 in the US and £6,000–8,000 at a UK referral hospital. Real costs for surgery, chemo and radiation, and where insurance runs out.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Dental Cleaning and Tooth Extractions?
Most dog insurance won't pay for a routine clean. Extractions are usually covered after an accident, and after gum disease only on some policies. How to check.
Dog Insurance for French Bulldogs: What to Know Before You Buy
French Bulldogs cost more to insure because they claim more, mostly for breathing, skin, eye and ear problems. How BOAS cover and hereditary rules work.
How Dog Insurance Works: Deductibles, Limits and Cover Types
How dog insurance works: you pay a premium, then your excess or deductible and a share of each bill, and the insurer pays the rest up to the policy limit.
How Much Does a Dog Cost Per Year? First-Year and Ongoing Costs
On the ASPCA's 2021 figures a dog costs about US$1,400 a year in routine care and US$3,200 in year one; newer surveys run higher. UK, CA, AU and IE costs inside.
How Much Does ACL (Cruciate) Surgery Cost for a Dog?
Dog cruciate (ACL) surgery prices in 2026: TPLO from about £2,070 to £6,250 in the UK, A$5,400–6,800 in Australia, and $3,300–5,400+ per knee in the US.
How to Make a Pet Insurance Claim (and Avoid It Being Rejected)
How to claim on pet insurance step by step, the documents insurers ask for, the most common reasons claims are rejected, and how to appeal a refusal.
Is Pet Insurance Worth It for Dogs? An Honest Breakdown
Pet insurance pays off when one big vet bill would hurt your finances or your dog's care. Here's who benefits, who can self-insure, and how to decide.
Lifetime Pet Insurance in the UK: How It Works and What to Watch For
UK lifetime pet insurance resets its vet-fee limit every year you renew, so long-term conditions stay covered. Expect rising premiums and a co-payment from 8–10.
Pet Insurance for Older Dogs: Can You Still Get Covered?
Yes, many insurers still take older dogs, but expect age caps, co-payments of 20% or more and exclusions for past problems. Here's what to check and what else works.
Pet Insurance Waiting Periods Explained: By Country and Cover
Pet insurance waiting periods run from 0 days for accidents to 12 months for hips. Typical lengths in the US, UK, Ireland, Canada and Australia, and how to avoid gaps.
Pre-Existing Conditions and Pet Insurance: What Counts and Why
A pre-existing condition is anything with signs, vet advice or treatment before cover starts, and it's usually excluded. What counts and how to avoid surprises.
What Does an Emergency Vet Visit Cost? Fees by Country
An emergency vet visit costs about £80–£500 in the UK, $210–$250 in the US and around A$195 in Australia just to be seen. Treatment often costs far more.
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