Finding the right pet insurance for your furry friend can be challenging, especially if your dog has pre-existing conditions. Many pet owners worry that their beloved dogs with chronic illnesses, past injuries, or ongoing medical issues won’t qualify for coverage or will face sky-high premiums. However, the best pet insurance for dogs with pre-existing conditions does exist — you just need to know where to look and what to expect.
In this guide, we’ll explore your options for insuring dogs with pre-existing conditions, highlight top providers in 2025, and share tips on how to get the best coverage and value.
Understanding Pre-Existing Conditions in Pet Insurance
A pre-existing condition is any illness, injury, or medical condition your dog had before starting a pet insurance policy. Common examples include:
- Allergies
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Skin conditions
- Past surgeries or injuries
Most traditional pet insurance companies exclude coverage for these conditions. That means if your dog requires treatment related to a pre-existing condition, your insurer won’t reimburse those costs.
Can Dogs with Pre-Existing Conditions Get Insurance?
Yes, but it depends on the type of pre-existing condition and the insurer’s policies. Here are some key points:
- Curable vs. incurable conditions: If the condition was fully treated and your dog has been symptom-free for a period (often 6-12 months), some insurers may consider it “curable” and offer coverage for future related issues.
- Chronic or ongoing conditions: These are generally excluded from coverage.
- New conditions: Most policies cover new illnesses and injuries that arise after the policy starts.
Because pre-existing conditions can complicate insurance, it’s crucial to compare providers carefully.
Top Options for Insuring Dogs with Pre-Existing Conditions in 2025
1. Embrace Pet Insurance
Embrace is known for being one of the few insurers that offers coverage for curable pre-existing conditions after a waiting period, often 12 months symptom-free.
- Pros: Covers curable pre-existing conditions; comprehensive coverage options; optional wellness plans.
- Cons: Not all pre-existing conditions qualify; waiting periods apply.
2. Healthy Paws Pet Insurance
While Healthy Paws excludes pre-existing conditions, it offers extensive coverage for new illnesses and accidents, making it a strong choice if your dog’s pre-existing condition is well-managed and not currently active.
- Pros: No caps on payouts; quick claim processing.
- Cons: No coverage for pre-existing conditions.
3. Petplan
Petplan covers curable pre-existing conditions after a waiting period and offers flexible plans including dental coverage.
- Pros: Covers curable pre-existing conditions; broad coverage including hereditary conditions.
- Cons: Waiting period before pre-existing conditions are covered.
4. Lemonade Pet Insurance
Lemonade excludes pre-existing conditions but provides affordable plans and quick claim processing. They have a user-friendly app ideal for tech-savvy pet owners.
- Pros: Low premiums; transparent pricing.
- Cons: Pre-existing conditions excluded.
5. Trupanion
Trupanion doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions but is notable for covering hereditary and congenital conditions and paying 90% of eligible claims with no payout limits.
- Pros: Direct vet pay; covers hereditary conditions.
- Cons: No coverage for pre-existing conditions.
How to Get the Best Coverage for Dogs with Pre-Existing Conditions
1. Be Honest About Your Dog’s Health
Always provide full disclosure about your dog’s medical history. Failure to disclose pre-existing conditions can result in claim denials or policy cancellations.
2. Look for Curable Condition Coverage
Focus on insurers that offer coverage for curable pre-existing conditions after a symptom-free waiting period.
3. Consider Supplemental Wellness Plans
These plans can help cover routine care like vaccinations, dental cleanings, and flea prevention, which are typically not covered in illness/injury policies.
4. Review Waiting Periods and Exclusions
Understand how long you need to wait before pre-existing conditions may be covered, and what conditions are excluded entirely.
5. Compare Deductibles, Reimbursement Levels, and Caps
Higher deductibles can lower your premium, but might cost more out-of-pocket. Look for reimbursement rates of 70% to 90% and beware of annual or lifetime payout limits.
Important Tips for Managing Costs with Pet Insurance
- Keep up with regular vet visits to prevent flare-ups of chronic conditions.
- Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine for your dog.
- Use insurance primarily for unexpected illnesses and injuries to avoid quickly reaching payout limits.
- Ask about multi-pet discounts if you have more than one dog.
What If Insurance Isn’t an Option?
For dogs with severe pre-existing conditions that aren’t insurable, consider:
- Pet health savings accounts: Set aside money monthly for future medical expenses.
- Care credit or veterinary financing: Helps spread out vet bills over time.
- Specialized funds or charities: Some organizations help cover costs for pets with chronic illnesses.
FAQs About Pet Insurance and Pre-Existing Conditions
Q: Will my dog’s pre-existing condition always be excluded?
A: Usually, yes. However, if the condition is curable and your dog has been symptom-free for a defined period, some insurers may cover it after a waiting period.
Q: Can I switch pet insurance if my dog develops a pre-existing condition?
A: Switching won’t typically cover existing conditions. New insurers usually exclude conditions diagnosed before policy start.
Q: What’s the difference between hereditary and pre-existing conditions?
A: Hereditary conditions are genetic and passed down from the dog’s parents, like hip dysplasia. Pre-existing conditions are any medical problems diagnosed before your insurance coverage begins.
Conclusion: Finding Peace of Mind for Dogs with Pre-Existing Conditions
While insuring dogs with pre-existing conditions is more complicated, it’s not impossible. By focusing on companies that offer coverage for curable conditions, understanding policy terms, and managing your dog’s health proactively, you can find insurance that helps protect your pet and your wallet.
Do your research, compare plans, and don’t hesitate to ask insurers detailed questions about how they handle pre-existing conditions. Your loyal companion deserves the best care possible, and with the right insurance plan, you can provide it — no matter their health history.