Best Pet Insurance For Dachshunds
A look at some of the best pet insurance plans for Dachshunds; to protect your pet and your personal finances.
Written by
Lauren Rey
With 15 years of experience in the veterinary industry, Lauren is well-versed in the world of pet insurance. She’s a content writer for several online pet publications and loves to help pet parents stay informed. When not researching the latest pet news, you’ll probably find her off on an adventure with her rescue dog Pickles.
Last Update on Jan 9, 2024
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Dachshunds can be prone to developing several health conditions and spinal injuries
- Treating common Dachshund health issues can require costly surgeries and treatments
- Pet insurance can help cover these costs, some even up to 100%
- The best insurance plans for Dachshun
Why Pet Insurance Is Essential For Dachshunds
Dachshunds are best known for their long bodies and short legs which have earned them amusing nicknames like “hotdogs” and “weiner dogs.” Sadly, these lovable low-riders can suffer from a host of health conditions, most notably, spinal problems due to their elongated backs.
The health risks that Dachshunds often face can require surgeries, hospitalizations, and rehabilitation therapy that can add up to thousands in medical bills. Pet insurance can help cover many of these costs, in some cases up to 100%.
Finding The Best Pet Insurance For Dachshunds
While no pet insurance plan is custom-made for Dachshunds, some options offer more favorable coverage for the conditions that commonly affect this breed.
Trupanion
Maximum Annual Coverage
Unlimited
Reimbursement Choices
90%
Wellness Plan Benefits
$0 to $1,000
App Available
Yes
Types of Pet Covered
Cats and Dogs
Waiting Periods
5 days for accidents and 30 days for illnesses
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Known as the #1 Pet Insurance in the US, Trupanion offers some of the best coverage on the market, plus a fast, direct-vet-pay option to reduce upfront costs for pet owners. Covered costs include diagnostics, treatments, surgeries, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and more. Add-ons for complementary coverage are also available.
Pros:
- Covers a long list of conditions, including dental illness or injury
- No annual deductibles (per-condition deductible)
- Unlimited lifetime coverage
- Fast claims and reduced upfront costs with direct-vet-pay option
- Reimburses 90% of all covered costs
Cons:
- Exam fees are not covered
- No wellness plans offered
- Extended waiting periods: 5-day for accident, 30-day for illness
Additional Details
Why we picked them for Dachshunds:
- No breed exclusions for hereditary or genetic conditions
- Covers many common Dachshund health conditions with no caps
- Covers advanced imaging like MRI
- IVDD treatment is covered
- Covers wheelchairs for Dachshunds with IVDD and other mobility issues
Embrace
Maximum Annual Coverage
$5,000, $10,000, Unlimited
Reimbursement Choices
70%, 80%, 90%
Deductible Choices
$100, $250, $500
App Available
Yes
Type of Pets Covered
Cats and Dogs
Waiting Periods
2 days for accidents, 14 days for illnesses, 6 months for orthopedic conditions for dogs
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One of the most trusted names in pet insurance, Embrace offers comprehensive coverage for accidents and illnesses, plus extensive wellness coverage options. Coverage includes exams, diagnostics, treatments, surgeries, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and more.
Pros:
- Covers a wide range of conditions, including dental illness or injury
- Complementary treatments like rehabilitation therapy are covered
- Accident coverage has a short, 2-day waiting period
- Provides pet owners access to a 24/7 Pet Telehealth
- Diminishing deductible perks for every year a pet goes without a claim
Cons:
- Limited choices for annual coverage, reimbursement rate, and deductible
- 6-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions (unless waived by exam)
- No direct-vet-pay option
Additional Details
Why we picked them for Dachshunds:
- No breed exclusions for hereditary or genetic conditions
- Covers many common Dachshund health conditions with no per-condition limits
- Covers advanced imaging like MRI
- IVDD treatment is covered
- Rehabilitation therapy for Dachshunds with IVDD is covered
Figo
Maximum Annual Coverage
$5,000, $10,000, Unlimited
Reimbursement Choices
70%, 80%, 90%, 100%
Deductible Choices
$100, $250, $500, $750
App Available
Yes
Type of Pets Covered
Cats and Dogs
Waiting Periods
1 day for accidents, 14 days for illnesses, 6 months for orthopedic injuries
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Pet Insurance founded by pet owners, Figo offers broad coverage for accidents and illnesses, plus assorted “power-ups” for adding and customizing your coverage. Covered costs include diagnostics, lab work, treatments, hospitalizations, surgeries, and more.
Pros:
- Covers a wide range of conditions, including dental illness or injury
- A short, 1-day waiting period for accident coverage
- Customizable coverage with up to 100% reimbursement option
- Access to Figo Cloud with 24/7 Pet Telehealth and other perks
- Lightning-fast claims service (most processed within 3 days)
Cons:
- Exam fees are not included in the base plan (only as a “power-up”)
- 6-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions
- No direct-vet-pay option
Additional Details
Why we picked them for Dachshunds:
- No breed exclusions for hereditary or genetic conditions
- Covers many common Dachshund health conditions with no per-incident caps
- Covers advanced imaging like MRI
- IVDD treatment is covered
- The shortest accident coverage waiting period on the market
ManyPets
Maximum Annual Coverage
Unlimited
Reimbursement Choices
70% or 80%
Wellness Plan Benefits
$500
App Available
Yes
Types of Pet Covered
Cats and Dogs
Waiting Periods
15 days for accident and illness plan, 24 hours for wellness plans
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A well-known pet insurer in the UK, ManyPets recently entered the US market and has quickly gained favor with pet owners. ManyPets plans feature comprehensive, unlimited coverage for accidents and illnesses, plus optional wellness add-ons. Covered costs include exams, diagnostics, treatments, surgeries, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and more.
Pros:
- No annual limits
- Covers a wide range of conditions, including dental illness or injury
- No extended waiting periods for orthopedic conditions
- Fast reimbursement process with direct deposit
- Reimburses 80% to 90% of all covered costs
Cons:
- Not available in all states
- Hip dysplasia is only covered in pets enrolled before 6 years of age
- No direct-vet-pay option
Additional Details
Why we picked them for Dachshunds:
- No breed exclusions for hereditary or genetic conditions
- Many common Dachshund health conditions are covered with no annual limits
- IVDD treatment is covered
- Covers advanced imaging like MRI
- Covers acupuncture and alternative therapies for Dachshunds with IVDD
Pets Best
Maximum Annual Coverage
$5,000, Unlimited
Reimbursement Choices
70%, 80%, 90%
Deductible Choices
$50, $100, $200, $250, $500, $1,000
App Available
Yes
Type of Pets Covered
Cats and Dogs
Waiting Periods
3 days for accidents, 6 months for coverage of cruciate ligament issues
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Founded by a veterinarian, Pets Best offers first-rate coverage, a highly customizable plan, and an emergency direct-vet-pay option to help reduce upfront costs for emergency care. Covered costs include exams, diagnostics, treatments, surgeries, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and more. Options to add on wellness plans are also available.
Pros:
- Covers a wide range of conditions, including dental illness and behavioral issues
- Customizable coverage, deductibles, and reimbursement rates
- A short, 3-day waiting period for accident coverage
- Offers access to 24/7 Pet Telehealth
- Direct-vet-pay option for emergencies
Cons:
- Bilateral conditions are not covered
- 6-month waiting period for cruciate ligament injury coverage
Additional Details
Why we picked them for Dachshunds:
- No breed exclusions for hereditary or genetic conditions
- Covers many common Dachshund health conditions
- IVDD treatment is covered
- Covers advanced imaging like MRI
- Rehabilitation therapy and wheelchairs or carts for Dachshunds with IVDD
Spot
Maximum Annual Coverage
$2,500 to Unlimited
Reimbursement Choices
70%, 80%, 90%
Deductible Choices
$100, $250, $500, $750, $1,000
App Available
Yes
Type of Pets Covered
Cats and Dogs
Waiting Periods
14 days
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A high-ranking, budget-friendly option, Spot offers great pet insurance at a customizable price. Covered costs include exams, diagnostics, treatments, hospitalizations, surgeries, prescription medications, and more. Optional wellness coverage is also available.
Pros:
- Covers a wide range of conditions, including dental illness or injury
- Highly customizable annual coverage, deductibles, and reimbursement rates
- Affordable plans for all budgets
- Provides pet owners access to a 24/7 Pet Telehealth
- Offers a 10% multi-pet discount
Cons:
- 15-day accident coverage waiting period
- No direct-vet-pay option
Additional Details
Why we picked them for Dachshunds:
- No breed exclusions for hereditary or genetic conditions
- Many common conditions Dachshunds can be prone to are covered
- Covers advanced imaging like MRI
- IVDD treatment is covered
- Covers acupuncture and alternative therapies for Dachshunds with IVDD
Disclaimer: As with all insurance, pre-existing conditions are excluded, changes in coverage or eligibility can occur, and waiting periods typically apply. Check individual policies for more details.
Comparing Pet Insurance Quotes For Dachshunds
When comparing pet insurance options for your Dachshund, it’s important to make sure you are starting with customized quotes. Monthly premiums and types of coverage available can vary widely based on your individual dog’s breed, age, sex, medical history, and location. You can get a customized quote on most pet insurers’ websites within minutes.
Once you have customized quotes, you’ll want to carefully compare coverage for the breed’s most common health conditions like IVDD and patellar luxation. Coverage for things like rehabilitation therapy and wheelchairs should also be considered. These can be vital to the recovery phase of a Dachshund with IVDD or other orthopedic problems.
The best plan will offer the highest level of coverage for these conditions (with no breed restrictions) at a monthly premium and deductible that fits your budget.
Common Health Problems in Dachshunds
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) – Due to their elongated spines, Dachshunds are at an increased risk for developing IVDD, a condition where the spinal discs are ruptured or displaced, causing pain, trouble walking, and even paralysis. Depending on the severity of the case of IVDD, surgery may be needed. An estimated 25% of Dachshunds will experience some degree of IVDD during their lifetime.
- Luxating Patella – Also known as “floating kneecaps,” luxating patellas are dislocations of the kneecap that can cause pain and mobility issues. Some cases of luxating patella may need surgical correction.
- Arthritis – A degenerative joint disease that causes pain and inflammation, arthritis usually occurs in Dachshunds secondary to another orthopedic condition such as IVDD or a luxating patella.
- Cushing’s Disease – Also known as hyperadrenocorticism or “overactive adrenal glands,” Cushing’s Disease occurs when the adrenal glands excrete too much cortisol. This can lead to an array of health problems that affect multiple organs. Dachshunds can be predisposed to developing Cushing’s Disease, typically near middle age or older. Many cases will require lifelong medications.
- Epilepsy – A neurological condition that induces seizures, Dachshunds can be predisposed to inheriting this disease due to genetic factors. Many epileptic Dachshunds will need ongoing care and medications.
- Obesity – Dachshunds can be prone to obesity due to their stature and mobility issues that make exercise difficult. Dachshunds experiencing obesity can be more inclined to develop IVDD, luxating patella, and arthritis.
- Cancer – Like many purebred dogs, Dachshunds carry a higher risk of developing cancer. Some of the most common cancers seen in Dachshunds include squamous cell carcinoma, mast cell tumors, and mammary gland tumors. Some of these cancers may require surgery and chemotherapy.
- Eye Problems – Due to genetics, Dachshunds can be predisposed to developing several eye problems, including cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal atrophy. Some need surgery and/or lifelong medications.
- Dental Problems – Like many small breed dogs, Dachshunds can be at a higher risk for developing dental issues like periodontal disease due to overcrowding. Some Dachshunds may need special cleanings and extractions.
Understanding The Costs Of Treating Health Issues In Dachshunds
Several of the health conditions that Dachshunds are prone to can require extensive veterinary care. A case of IVDD, which Dachshunds are unfortunately very prone to, can require surgery, advanced diagnostics like MRIs, and a lengthy recovery process involving physical therapy and mobility aids like wheelchairs or special carts. In total, it can cost up to $10,000 to treat a case of IVDD.
Other common Dachshund health conditions like Cushing’s disease or epilepsy, can require lifelong medications that add a significant cost to your monthly expenses.
How Pet Insurance Can Help
While not every Dachshund will develop one of these conditions, owners should be aware of the potential health risks and be prepared for the potential costs. Pet insurance can be one of the best ways to prepare!
Depending on the plan, pet insurance can help cover 70% to 100% of your Dachshund’s veterinary bills (after the deductible is met). If you have a plan with direct-vet-pay, you’ll also have fewer upfront, out-of-pocket costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Pet Insurance Worth It For Dachshunds?
Considering their potential for developing some serious health conditions, pet insurance is a very worthy investment for a Dachshund. Unfortunately, just their risk of IVDD alone, which around 25% of Dachshunds will face at some point during their lifetime, can cost thousands to treat.
What Should I Consider When Choosing Pet Insurance For My Dachshund?
Since Dachshunds carry a high risk of costly health conditions, owners should consider opting for a lower deductible and/or higher reimbursement rate when possible. This may increase your monthly premiums but can help reduce your overall out-of-pocket costs in the long run if your Dachshund ends up needing surgery and/or ongoing specialty care.
How Much Does Pet Insurance Typically Cost For Dachshunds?
Pet insurance premiums can vary widely based on several factors but an average policy with accident and illness coverage for a Dachshund ranges from $30 and $60 a month. Add-ons like wellness or alternative therapy coverage can cost an additional $10 to $30 per month.
Are There Any Pet Insurance Providers That Specialize In Coverage For Dachshunds?
There are currently no breed-specific pet insurance plans that exist for Dachshunds. However, there are some plans that have more favorable coverage for the most common health conditions of this breed, those plans are outlined above.
Can I Customize A Pet Insurance Policy To Meet The Needs Of My Dachshund?
There are some pet insurance plans that offer customizations but those are not typically tailored to specific breeds. Most customizations include your choice of annual limits, deductibles, and reimbursement percentages. Some plans also offer add-ons to include coverage for things like rehabilitation therapy, which can be an incredibly helpful customization option for Dachshunds that are prone to IVDD and arthritis.
Find out more
- Senior Pet Insurance – Secure the right coverage for your aging Dachshund.
- Pet Insurance for Pre-existing Conditions – Find insurers that cover conditions your Dachshund may already have.
- Does Pet Insurance Cover Cancer? – Understand options for your Dachshund if they face serious health issues.
- Pet Insurance That Pays the Vet Directly – Ease your financial concerns with direct payments for your Dachshund’s care.
- What Does Pet Insurance Cover? – Get clarity on coverage specifics for your Dachshund.
- Pet Insurance Worth It? – Decide if insurance is a good investment for your Dachshund’s health.
- How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost? – Budget for your Dachshund’s insurance needs.
- List of Pet Insurance Companies – Explore companies to find the best match for your Dachshund.
Lauren Rey
Author
With 15 years of experience in the veterinary industry, Lauren is well-versed in the world of pet insurance. She’s a content writer for several online pet publications and loves to help pet parents stay informed. When not researching the latest pet news, you’ll probably find her off on an adventure with her rescue dog Pickles.
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