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Pet Insurance for Dogs

If you need healthcare cover for your canine companion, you can compare pet insurance policies for dogs with Savvy today.  

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, updated on October 6th, 2023       

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Compare pet insurance

Looking into pet insurance for your beloved furry friend? Whether you have a playful pup or a curious cat, you can compare pet insurance options from a range of providers and find the perfect coverage that suits your pet's unique needs and your budget. 

site-logos Fetch Care Plan

Annual benefits limit

Excess

% Benefits reimbursement rate

Covers illness?

Covers accidental injuries?
$30,000 $100 80%, 90% or 100% pros-item-petins pros-item-petins

Pet insurance we think you’ll love. 24/7 vet support + dental, physio and behaviour cover added (see PDS) all in one app.

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site-logos Petsy Most Popular 80% Cover $150 Excess

Annual benefits limit

Excess

% Benefits reimbursement rate

Covers illness?

Covers accidental injuries?
$25,000 $150 80% pros-item-petins pros-item-petins

Protect your furry friend with Petsy's pet insurance policy. Get a free quote.

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site-logos Fetch Premium Plan

Annual benefits limit

Excess

% Benefits reimbursement rate

Covers illness?

Covers accidental injuries?
$30,000 $0 80% or 90% pros-item-petins pros-item-petins

Pet insurance we think you’ll love. 24/7 vet support + dental, physio and behaviour cover added (see PDS) all in one app.

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site-logos Knose Pet Insurance

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% Benefits reimbursement rate

Covers illness?

Covers accidental injuries?
$7,500, $12,500 or $25,000 $0 / $100 / $200 70%, 80% or 90% pros-item-petins pros-item-petins

Multi-award winning pet insurance designed with the help of vets.

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site-logos Petsy Value Cover 80% Cover $500 Excess

Annual benefits limit

Excess

% Benefits reimbursement rate

Covers illness?

Covers accidental injuries?
$10,000 $500 80% pros-item-petins pros-item-petins

Protect your furry friend with Petsy's pet insurance policy. Get a free quote.

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site-logos Petsy Top Cover

Annual benefits limit

Excess

% Benefits reimbursement rate

Covers illness?

Covers accidental injuries?
$25,000 $0 / $150 / $500 90% pros-item-petins pros-item-petins

Protect your furry friend with Petsy's pet insurance policy. Get a free quote.

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Disclaimer: Savvy is not advising or recommending any particular product to you. We provide general information on products for the purposes of comparison, but your personal situation or goals are not considered here. Although we try to make our comparisons as thorough as possible, we do not have information on all products on the market on our site.

Savvy earns a commission each time a customer buys a pet insurance policy through our website. We don’t arrange for products to be purchased from these brands directly, as all purchases are conducted via the individual pet insurance companies.

You should always consult a given offer's PDS or further documentation in the process of deciding on which loan to choose, as well as seeking independent, professional advice. If you decide to apply with one of the lenders listed above via our website, you will not be dealing with Savvy; any applications or enquiries will be conducted directly with the lender offering that product.

Pet insurance is an important consideration for dog owners in Australia. Unexpected health issues, accidents and emergencies can lead to substantial vet bills, but pet insurance can provide protection against such financial burdens. If you’re looking for cover for your dog, Savvy can help.

Our 100% free comparison service allows you to compare pet insurance quotes side by side in moments. Simply fill out an online form about you, your dog and the cover you're after and receive quotes from our insurance partners. Get started on your quote today!

What does pet insurance for dogs cover?

In Australia, there are three main types of pet insurance available, each offering different levels of coverage:  

Accident-only  

This basic level of insurance generally has lower claim limits and offers more limited coverage, covering only medical expenses resulting from accidents. This could include:

  • Injuries from car accidents
  • Burns
  • Electrocution
  • Insect and snake bites
  • Poisoning
  • Ingesting a foreign object

Accident and illness

Offering a higher level of coverage compared to accident-only plans, this option includes not only coverage for accidents but also a broader range of illnesses. This can encompass various health issues, such as:

  • Cancer
  • Skin, eye and ear conditions
  • Paralysis tick
  • Gastrointestinal issues
  • Hereditary and congenital conditions

Comprehensive

Comprehensive plans generally have higher annual limits and can cover the majority of your vet bill, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses. This level of insurance provides coverage for accidents and illnesses and can include routine care as an optional extra. Depending on your policy, routine care could include:

  • Microchipping
  • Vaccinations
  • Desexing
  • Flea and tick control

Which pet insurance is best for you depends on various factors, such as your dog’s breed, age and health, your budget and the sort of coverage you desire. It's important to consider these aspects to help you find a policy that aligns most closely with your specific needs and provides the necessary protection for your canine companion.

Does pet insurance for dogs have any restrictions or exclusions?

Pet insurance for dogs often comes with certain restrictions and exclusions that policyholders should be aware of. These restrictions and exclusions can vary depending on the insurance provider and the specific policy you choose, but some of the most common include:

  • Pre-existing conditions: pre-existing conditions are health issues or symptoms that your dog had or was diagnosed with before the policy’s start date. Make sure to carefully review the policy’s definition of pre-existing conditions to understand what is and isn’t covered.
  • Waiting periods: many policies have waiting periods before certain types of coverage become active. For example, a policy might have a 14-day waiting period for illness coverage, meaning that if your dog gets sick within the first 14 days of the policy, the illness won’t be covered.
  • Age limits: some policies have age restrictions, meaning they may not provide coverage for dogs that are below or above a certain age, usually providing cover for animals between eight weeks and nine years old. Older dogs might also have limited coverage options or higher premiums due to increased health risks.
  • Breed-specific exclusions: certain breeds are prone to specific health conditions. Some policies might exclude coverage for those conditions for certain breeds. It’s important to review the policy to see if your dog’s breed is subject to any exclusions.
  • High-risk activities: some policies may exclude coverage for injuries or accidents that occur during certain high-risk activities, such as dog fighting, racing or dangerous sports.
  • Routine care and preventative treatments: while comprehensive plans might cover preventative care like vaccinations and routine check-ups as optional extras, not all policies include these benefits.
  • Cosmetic procedures: procedures that are considered cosmetic or elective may not be covered by pet insurance.
  • Pregnancy and breeding: many policies exclude coverage for pregnancy, breeding-related expenses or complications arising from breeding activities. However, on some comprehensive pet insurance policies, you may be covered for getting your dog desexed.

What influences the cost of pet insurance for dogs?

Several factors can impact how much you pay for pet insurance for dogs. This includes:

  • Breed and size: certain dog breeds are susceptible to specific genetic issues or health conditions – for example, Dachshunds are prone to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Larger dogs might also have higher medical costs due to their size.  
  • Age: the age of your dog plays a significant role in premium calculations. Younger dogs generally have lower premiums as they are less likely to have pre-existing health conditions. Older dogs may have higher premiums due to the increased risk of age-related health issues.
  • Health record: your dog’s health history, including any pre-existing conditions, can impact the cost. Some policies may exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions or charge higher premiums to account for them.
  • Location: your geographical location can impact insurance costs. Vet care expenses can vary between regions, influencing the overall risk assessment for insurers.
  • Coverage: the type of coverage you select can affect the cost. Comprehensive plans covering accidents, illnesses and preventative care tend to be more expensive than accident-only or accident and illness plans.
  • Annual limits and benefit percentage: policies with higher annual limits and benefit percentages may result in higher premiums, as they offer more extensive coverage for medical expenses.
  • Excess: opting for a higher excess (the amount you pay before the insurance coverage kicks in) can lead to lower premiums.
  • Claim history: some insurers may consider your past claim history, especially if you've frequently made claims for your pet dog.

Types of pet insurance you can choose from

Accident-only

This is the most basic type of pet insurance, covering costs for accidental injuries such as car accidents, poisoning, burns, fractures, snake and spider bites, but not illnesses and other conditions. 

Accident and illness

This type of insurance provides cover for accidental injuries as well as illnesses like cancer, gastrointestinal problems and eye, ear and skin conditions, but not routine care for your pet.

Comprehensive

This offers the highest level of protection, covering accident and illness and potentially routine care such as vaccinations, dental care, worm and flea treatments and microchipping.

Why compare pet insurance with Savvy?

Online fast approvals

100% free

Our comparison service is free to use, providing you with a range of pet insurance quotes at no cost.

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Compare in two minutes

You'll be able to compare offers online side by side in a matter of minutes before you buy.

A Range of Options

Choice of insurers

We’ve partnered with a range of pet insurers to give you more choice when selecting a policy.

Top tips for saving on pet insurance for your dog

Insure your dog young

Insuring your dog when they’re a puppy and maintaining coverage can save in the long run. Early coverage typically means lower initial premiums, while maintaining it over time ensures ongoing protection as your pet ages, which can be cheaper than taking out new insurance for a senior dog with excluded pre-existing conditions.   

Consider the coverage

Evaluate the range of coverage offered by different insurance plans, considering factors such as your dog’s breed, age, health and lifestyle. For example, if you don't require all the features of a comprehensive plan, accident-only or accident and illness policies provide lower-cost options while still providing essential protection for your pet.

Adjust excess and limits

Consider a higher excess, lower annual limits and adjusting the benefit percentage. A higher excess can lead to reduced premiums, and adjusting the limits and benefit percentage can help lower the overall policy cost. However, bear in mind that while these choices may decrease your premium, they can result in higher out-of-pocket expenses during claims.

Bundle policies

Some insurers offer the option of bundling multiple policies or offer reduced premiums for multi-pet coverage, allowing you to consolidate coverage under a single policy and potentially save on costs.

Hunt for discounts

As well as multi-pet discounts, some companies offer special promotions for new customers, including limited-time free coverage or reduced premiums for the initial year.

Compare pet insurance plans

Look at different pet insurance options to identify the most suitable and budget-friendly plan for your dog’s specific requirements. With Savvy’s 100% free comparison service, you can quickly and easily compare quotes from reputable insurers to help you find a pet insurance deal that meets your needs.

Frequently asked questions about pet insurance for dogs

Is pet insurance worth it for my dog?

Pet insurance serves an important purpose, providing financial security and peace of mind by ensuring that you can afford necessary medical care for your dog in case of unexpected, covered emergencies or illnesses. Even if your dog is currently healthy, pet insurance acts as a safety net, ensuring you’re prepared for unexpected accidents or illnesses that may arise in the future and are included in your policy’s coverage, so may be worth considering. 

Can I insure an older dog?

Yes – many insurance providers offer coverage for senior pets. However, note that premiums might be higher due to the potential health risks associated with age, and policy options may be limited as a result of age restrictions. 

Can I switch pet insurance providers for my dog?

Yes – you can switch your pet insurance policy at any time. However, you should check your insurance contract before making any changes to see if you will be subject to any cancellation fees or eligible for a refund. If you’re looking for a new pet insurance policy for your dog, you can compare plans with Savvy today.

Is it more expensive to insure a dog or a cat?

Insuring dogs is usually slightly more expensive than insuring cats. This is primarily due to dogs being larger animals, engaging in more outdoor activities that can lead to injuries and experiencing a higher number of accidents on average.

What if my dog needs treatment during the waiting period?

If your dog requires treatment during the waiting period, you may not be eligible to claim those expenses under your pet insurance. However, many policies do not have waiting periods for accidental injuries, meaning your dog can be covered for these incidents from day one. 

Which dog breeds are the most expensive to insure?

The cost of insuring a dog can vary based on factors like breed, age and location. Generally, larger dog breeds and those prone to certain health issues, such as French Bulldogs, may have higher insurance premiums due to the potential for greater medical expenses.    

Are any dogs ineligible for pet insurance cover?

Yes – some dogs may be excluded from standard cover because of their breed or the job they do. For example:

  • Working dogs and dogs used for police or security purposes.
  • Breeds banned by the Australian government, or dogs that are crossed with a banned breed.

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Quantum Savvy Pty Ltd (ABN 78 660 493 194) trades as Savvy and operates as an Authorised Credit Representative 541339 of Australian Credit Licence 414426 (AFAS Group Pty Ltd, ABN 12 134 138 686). We are one of Australia’s leading financial comparison sites and have been helping Australians make savvy decisions when it comes to their money for over a decade.

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For more information about us and how we conduct our business, you can read our privacy policy and terms of use.

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1300 974 066

Sign up to our newsletter

Disclaimer and important things you should know

Quantum Savvy Pty Ltd (ABN 78 660 493 194) trades as Savvy and operates as an Authorised Credit Representative 541339 of Australian Credit Licence 414426 (AFAS Group Pty Ltd, ABN 12 134 138 686). We are one of Australia’s leading financial comparison sites and have been helping Australians make savvy decisions when it comes to their money for over a decade.

We’re partnered with lenders, insurers and other financial institutions who compensate us for business initiated through our website. We earn a commission each time a customer chooses or buys a product advertised on our site, which you can find out more about here, as well as in our credit guide for asset finance. It’s also crucial to read the terms and conditions, Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or credit guide of our partners before signing up for your chosen product. However, the compensation we receive doesn’t impact the content written and published on our website, as our writing team exercises full editorial independence.

For more information about us and how we conduct our business, you can read our privacy policy and terms of use.

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