Best Pet Insurance For Pugs
Pet insurance that fits your Pug and your personal finances, an in-depth review of the preferred plans for Pugs.
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 11, 2024
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Pugs are a brachycephalic breed and can be prone to respiratory issues and other health problems
- Treating the health issues Pugs can be prone to can require costly surgeries and treatments
- Pet insurance can help cover your Pug’s veterinary bills, some up to 100%
- The best pet insurance for Pugs covers their most common conditions without any breed restrictions
Why Pugs Need Pet Insurance
Known for their adorable “smushed” faces and big “bug” eyes, Pugs are among some of the most unique dog breeds. Sadly, some of the very characteristics they are known and loved for can cause serious health problems. Breathing issues, eye disorders, and orthopedic conditions are all unfortunately common in the Pug breed.
Some of the Pug’s most common health conditions can require surgeries, specialized medical care, and long-term medications that can add to thousands in medical bills. Pet insurance can help cover these bills, in some cases even up to 100%.
The Best Pet Insurance For Pugs
While there’s no special pet insurance plan created just for Pugs, there are plans that offer preferred coverage for the conditions that most 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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Proclaimed as the #1 Pet Insurance in America, Trupanion offers superior coverage and an expedited, direct-vet-pay option to help lower upfront costs. Covered costs include diagnostics, treatments, surgeries, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and more. Add-ons for supplemental coverage are also available to customize your plan.
Pros:
- Covers a wide range of conditions, including dental illness or injury
- Unlimited lifetime coverage
- No annual deductibles (per-condition deductible)
- Expedited 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 Pugs:
- No restrictions on hereditary or genetic illness coverage for Pugs
- Covers many common Pug health conditions with no caps
- Treatment for BOAS is covered
- Eye problems are covered
- Covers wheelchairs and carts for Pugs with orthopedic problems
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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An industry leader, Embrace Pet Insurance offers premium coverage for accidents and illnesses, plus a flexible wellness add-on to customize your coverage. Covered costs include exams, diagnostics, treatments, surgeries, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and more.
Pros:
- Covers a wide range of conditions, including dental illness or injury
- Supplemental treatments like rehabilitation therapy are covered
- Offers a short, 2-day waiting period for accident coverage
- Provides policyholders with 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 Pugs:
- No restrictions on hereditary or genetic illness coverage for Pugs
- Covers many common Pug health conditions with no per-condition limits
- Treatment for BOAS is covered
- Covers physical therapy and alternative therapies like acupuncture and laser for pugs with hip dysplasia or mobility issues
- The wellness plan add-on covers orthopedic testing (early detection for hip dysplasia)
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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The top-rated pet insurer in the UK for many years, ManyPets was recently introduced in the US market and has quickly gained favor with the pet-owning public. ManyPets features plans with comprehensive, unlimited coverage for accidents and illnesses, plus wellness add-ons. Covered costs include exams, diagnostics, treatments, surgeries, hospitalizations, prescription medications, and more.
Pros:
- Covers a wide range of conditions, including dental injury and illness
- No annual limits
- No extended waiting periods for orthopedic conditions
- Expedited reimbursements 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 prior to age 6
- No direct-vet-pay option
Additional Details
Why we picked them for Pugs:
- No restrictions on hereditary or genetic illness coverage for Pugs
- Covers many common Pug health conditions with no annual limits
- Treatment for BOAS is covered
- Covers bilateral eye conditions
- Covers acupuncture and alternative therapies for Pugs with mobility issues
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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Created by pet owners, Figo Pet Insurance offers ample coverage for accidents and illnesses, plus additional “power-ups” to customize coverage for your pet’s unique needs. Covered costs include diagnostics, lab work, treatments, surgeries, hospitalizations, and more.
Pros:
- Covers a wide range of conditions, including dental injury and illness
- A short, 1-day waiting period for accident coverage
- Access to Figo Cloud with 24/7 Pet Telehealth and other perks
- Customizable coverage with options for up to 100% reimbursement
- Lightning-fast claims service (most processed within 3 days)
Cons:
- Exam fees are not included in the base plan (must be added as a “power-up”)
- Orthopedic conditions have an extended 6-month waiting period
- No direct-vet-pay option
Additional Details
Why we picked them for Pugs:
- No restrictions on hereditary or genetic illness coverage for Pugs
- Treatment for BOAS is covered
- Covers bilateral eye conditions
- Covers some alternative therapies for Pugs with orthopedic problems
- The shortest accident coverage waiting period on the market
Pumpkin
Maximum Annual Coverage
$10,000, $20,000, Unlimited
Reimbursement Choices
90%
Deductible Choices
$100, $250, $500
App Available
No
Type of Pets Covered
Cats and Dogs
Waiting Periods
14 days for accidents and illnesses
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One of the most recent and rapidly growing pet insurance providers, Pumpkin offers comprehensive coverage for accidents and illnesses, plus optional wellness plans for customized coverage. Covered costs include exams, diagnostics, lab work, surgeries, treatments, hospitalizations, and more.
Pros:
- Covers a wide range of conditions, including dental illness and injury
- Offers an unlimited option for annual coverage
- No extended waiting periods for orthopedic conditions
- Reimburses 90% of all covered costs
- Offers a 10% multi-pet discount
Cons:
- 14-day waiting period for all coverage
- Only one reimbursement rate option
- No direct-vet-pay option
Additional Details
Why we picked them for Pugs:
- No restrictions on hereditary or genetic illness coverage for Pugs
- Treatment for BOAS is covered
- Covers bilateral eye conditions
- Some alternative therapies for Pugs with orthopedic problems are covered
- Covers prescription diets
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
Show More Details
A top-rated, highly affordable option, Spot Pet Insurance offers well-rounded coverage at a customizable price for all budgets. 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 injury and illness
- Customizable annual coverage, deductibles, and reimbursement rates
- Affordable plans for all types of budgets
- Pet owners have access to 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 Pugs:
- No restrictions on hereditary or genetic illness coverage for Pugs
- Covers many common Pug health conditions with no lifetime caps
- Bilateral eye conditions are covered
- Covers some treatments for BOAS
- Covers acupuncture and alternative therapies for Pugs with orthopedic problems
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.
Common Health Issues in Pugs
- Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) – Being a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have shortened skulls and flattened faces, Pugs can experience a set of conditions that restrict their breathing. Collectively, this is known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, or BOAS, and can cause varying levels of respiratory distress. Sometimes surgery is needed in order to correct the condition.
- Heat and Exercise Intolerance – Pugs can easily and quickly become exhausted and overheated due to their body type and breathing issues. A simple walk around the block on a hot day can be enough to induce a fatal case of heat stroke. Pug owners should always use caution when it comes to heat and exercise.
- Eye Problems – Like most brachycephalic breeds, Pugs are prone to many ophthalmological issues. Their most common eye problems include corneal ulcers, dry eye, cataracts, cherry eye (a prolapsed gland), and entropion (a deformity of the eyelid). Pugs are also prone to eye injuries and infections due to their protruding “bug” eyes. Some Pugs may require surgery or lifelong eyedrops to treat some of these conditions.
- Skinfold Dermatitis – Due to their many skinfolds, Pugs are prone to developing skinfold dermatitis. This condition is caused by friction within the skinfolds and can cause inflammation and infections. It’s especially common around the Pug’s wrinkled face and curly tail. They can also be prone to other types of skin and ear infections.
- Hip Dysplasia – Pugs are highly prone to developing hip dysplasia, an abnormal joint development that causes pain and mobility issues. According to studies done by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, as many as 71% of screened Pugs had dysplastic hips.
- Cancer – Pugs can be predisposed to developing mast cell tumors, a type of cancer that presents as small masses or tumors under the skin but can spread to other parts of the body. Surgery and/or chemotherapy is usually the course of treatment for mast cell tumors.
Understanding Pet Insurance Coverage For Pugs
Pet insurance coverage for brachycephalic breeds such as Pugs is not always clear-cut. One of their most common ailments, Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, or BOAS, can often be labeled as a pre-existing condition. Due to the multi-faceted nature of the disease, some insurance companies deem any history of respiratory symptoms prior to enrollment as a precursor to BOAS.
Hip dysplasia coverage is another area that can be tricky. Any symptoms of limping or lameness in your Pug’s medical history prior to enrollment might be considered early signs of hip dysplasia, therefore excluding them from coverage.
It’s important to always read the fine print in your pet’s insurance policy and/or speak to an insurance representative to discuss any possible “grey areas” in the coverage.
Tips For Getting The Most Out Of Your Coverage
Early enrollment is the key to getting the most out of your pet insurance coverage! While this is true for all breeds, when it comes to Pugs, this means the difference between some of their most common health conditions being covered or not.
Pugs carry a higher risk of developing health problems so it’s best to enroll them in a plan when they are still a puppy (before potential health issues arise). Of course, if you adopted an older Pug it’s still worthwhile to have them insured, just be prepared for higher premiums and exclusions due to pre-existing conditions.
Another way to get the most out of your pet insurance is to utilize the wellness options whenever possible. Wellness check-ups are vital and can help detect health issues early on, especially if your plan includes OFA screening for hip dysplasia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Factors Should I Consider When Comparing Pet Insurance Providers For Pugs?
When comparing pet insurance providers for your Pug, it’s crucial to begin with customized quotes. The extent of coverage and monthly costs will differ based on variables such as breed, age, sex, medical history, and location. Once you have customized quotes to compare, look for the best coverage for the breed’s most common conditions like BOAS, eye problems, and hip dysplasia.
Can I Get A Free Quote For Pet Insurance For My Pug?
Most, if not all, pet insurance providers offer fast, free online quotes. Simply go to the provider’s website, fill out an online form, and a quote will often be emailed to you within minutes. If you prefer to speak to an agent, most pet insurance providers also offer a customer service line to connect you with pet insurance professionals who can assist with your quote.
What Information Do I Need To Provide To Get A Pet Insurance Quote For My Pug?
To receive a customized quote for your pet, you’ll need to fill out a questionnaire provided by the insurance company. Often, this will include questions about your pet’s age, breed, sex, lifestyle, and medical history. You’ll also be asked about your location as not all policies are available in areas.
If you choose to move forward with your quote, most providers will require a medical record review before activating your policy. To avoid surprise fees later on, it’s important to give complete and accurate medical information during the quote process.
Can I Use Any Veterinarian With Pet Insurance For My Pug?
Pet insurance operates much differently than human health insurance in that there are no in-network or out-of-network doctors. You can use any licensed veterinarian in the US and submit a claim for reimbursement.
If you have a policy that offers a direct-vet-pay option, such as Trupanion, you may find that not every veterinary clinic can accept that type of payment. Your pet can still be seen, but you’ll need to pay upfront and submit a claim for reimbursement.
How Can I Save Money On Pet Insurance For My Pug?
One of the biggest ways you can save money on your pet’s insurance is by enrolling them early, ideally while they’re still a puppy. You’ll get the maximum amount of coverage for the best price.
As your pet ages, their premiums may increase but any health conditions they develop are more likely to be covered.
Another way to save on pet insurance is through discounts. Some pet insurance providers offer multi-pet discounts, bundle deals with other insurance services, and reduced fees for members of the military.
Find out more
- List of Pet Insurance Companies – Compare different insurers to find the best fit.
- Pet Dental Insurance – Ensure your pet’s dental health is covered.
- Accident-Only Pet Insurance – Discover if accident-only coverage is right for your pet.
- Are Wellness Plans Worth It? – Decide on the value of wellness plans.
- Does Pet Insurance Cover Service Dogs? – Understand coverage specifics for service dogs.
- Good Deductible for Pet Insurance – Learn what deductible amount is right for you.
- Healthy Paws Pet Insurance Review – Explore the features of Healthy Paws insurance.
- Does Pet Insurance Cover Surgery? – Get clarity on surgical procedure coverage.
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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