Best Pet Insurance For Labrador Retrievers In 2024
In my professional opinion, Healthy Paws offers the best pet insurance for Labrador Retrievers.
If you own a Labrador Retriever, you’re undoubtedly concerned about its health and well-being. As a pure breed, a Labrador is more likely to suffer from genetic health issues than mixed-breed dogs. Unfortunately, 4 out of 5 pet parents can’t pay for an unexpected $500 veterinary bill out-of-pocket. However, pet insurance will help you reduce your financial risk.
In this review, we’ll look at some of the top pet insurers for Labradors and help you pick the policy that best meets your needs. You’ll find that pet insurance is much like personal health insurance; it provides better treatment options and limits out-of-pocket costs. But unlike private health insurance, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
Best Pet Insurance Companies For Labrador Retrievers 2024
Different pet insurance companies for Labradors are the same in many ways in that they will help ensure your pet is cared for and that your financial risk is limited, but they’re also different in some ways. So while one company may be best for your neighbor’s pet, another may be better for yours.
Here’s our breakdown of the best pet insurance companies for Labradors:
Compare The Best Pet Insurance Companies For Labradors
As you can see from our breakdown of the best pet insurance companies for Labradors shown above, many high-quality companies are vying for the top spots. You can also see that each has its own particular strengths. Here’s a snapshot to give you a glance into each insurer:
| Overall Rating | Best For | Waiting Period | Reimbursement % | Benefit Limit | Get A Quote | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthy Paws |
|
Overall |
15 days accident / illness |
70%, 80%, 90% |
Unlimited annual and lifetime |
Instant Quote |
| Lemonade |
|
Cheap |
2 days accident, 14 days illness |
70%, 80%, 90% |
$5,000 to $100,000 annually |
Instant Quote |
| ManyPets |
|
Puppies |
15 days accident / illness |
70% or 80% (most states) |
Unlimited annual and lifetime |
Instant Quote |
| Pumpkin |
|
Older Dogs |
14 days accident / illness |
90% |
$10,000 , $20,000 or unlimited |
Instant Quote |
| Spot |
|
Multiple pets |
14 days accident / illness |
70%, 80%, 90% |
$2,500 to unlimited |
Instant Quote |
Our Methodology
Opinions and subsequent ratings were based on reviewing each insurer's website, customer reviews, other review sites, and personal experience having purchased and used pet insurance in the past.
Quotes Analyzed
Years Of Industry Experience
Brands Reviewed
Research Hours
Reviews Of The Best Pet Insurance Companies For Labrador Retrievers
Best Overall
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅Healthy Paws is the best pet insurance because it has no maximum on claim payouts, per-incident maximum, or caps. This means paying more, but it’s worth it to avoid putting pets down due to policy limits.
Healthy Paws has one easy-to-understand policy, no costly add-ons, and allows you to use any licensed veterinarian. Submitting claims is simple through their mobile app or website, with most claims processed within two days.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- No maximum annual or lifetime payouts
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Most claims processed within two days
- Direct vet payments may be possible ✓
- No routine wellness option ✘
Runner-Up for Best Overall
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅We found Lemonade to be the cheapest pet insurance for Labradors. While the limits are comparable to those of other companies we reviewed, they are not unlimited like those of Healthy Paws. Lemonade’s coverage limits range from $ 5,000 to $ 100,000 per year, with the premium increasing along with the limit you select.
Lemonade’s standard policy covers accidents and illnesses, including cancer, heart disease, skin conditions, broken bones, and hip dysplasia, a common ailment among older Labradors. Like most insurers, Lemonade doesn’t pay for medical costs for preexisting conditions, dental illnesses, behavioral issues, or elective procedures.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Optional wellness plan available
- Accident waiting coverage period of only two days
- You get a 10% discount by bundling pet insurance with home, renters, or car insurance you have with Lemonade ✓
- No 24/7 pet telehealth line
- Coverage for vet exam fees has to be added for an extra cost
- No coverage for prescription food or microchipping ✘
Best For Puppies
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅ManyPets has the most favorable coverage for puppies. Pre-existing coverages don’t affect the rates, cured conditions may be covered after 18 months, and unrelated conditions are still eligible for coverage.
Like all pups, young Labradors can suffer from illnesses like poisoning, ingesting foreign bodies, and accidents stemming from their youthful energy. Covering them when they’re younger makes it far less likely that you’ll ever run into exclusions for pre-existing conditions when they’re older.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Available in more than 40 states
- Covers vet exam fees for illness and accident visits
- Offers optional wellness plans ✓
- No 24/7 pet telehealth line
- Doesn’t cover pet behavioral therapy
- No coverage for alternative therapies ✘
Best For Older Dogs
Key Statistics
Why We like Them
⇅As Labradors age, they are prone to genetic illnesses that can lead to costly treatments, namely cruciate ligament issues and hip dysplasia. Pumpkin has no special waiting period for these conditions and covers veterinarian exam fees if you have to take your older Lab in for treatment.
Pumpkin has a good selection of coverage options for a wide range of problems Labradors can experience, including surgeries and dental illnesses. You get a choice of three different deductibles and 90% reimbursement is standard.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Optional wellness plan available
- Discounts for insuring multiple pets
- 90% reimbursement for dogs and cats 8 weeks and older ✓
- No 24/7 pet telehealth line
- No accident-only plan is available ✘
Best For Multiple Pets
Key Statistics
Why We like Them
⇅Many Labrador owners have multiple pets since Labs have such an amiable disposition. Spot provides a 10% discount for insuring more than one pet with them, which can add up to a lot of savings.
Spot’s optional preventive care plan provides coverage for wellness care, such as one annual visit to the vet, one fecal test, and one teeth cleaning. Some vaccinations are also covered.
Spot offers a 30-day money-back guarantee if you’re unsatisfied with the coverage or service. Spot also reimburses up to 90% on eligible vet bills, in addition to a 24/7 vet helpline. In addition, you can visit any U.S.-licensed veterinarian or specialist.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Covers microchipping
- Low $100 deductible is available
- Has a 24/7 pet telehealth line ✓
- Accidents have a 14-day waiting period, compared to 2 days with some top competitors ✘
Average Cost Of Pet Insurance For Labradors
| Company | Deductible | Annual Reimbursement % | Monthly Price | Age of Dog |
| Healthy Paws | $500 | 70% | $71.30 | 5 year old |
| Lemonade | $500 | 70% | $39.00 | 5 year old |
| Spot | $500 | 70% | $74.34 | 5 year old |
| Healthy Paws | $500 | 80% | $37.52 | 1 year old |
| Lemonade | $500 | 80% | $20.67 | 1 year old |
| Spot | $500 | 80% | $54.80 | 1 year old |
| Healthy Paws | $500 | 70% | $37.64 | 3 month old |
| Lemonade | $500 | 70% | $30.13 | 3 month old |
| Spot | $500 | 70% | $83.12 | 3 month old |
Average Cost Of Typical Vet Procedures
| Typical Vet Procedure | Average Cost Of Procedure |
| Puppy vaccinations | $70-100 |
| Flea & tick prevention | $45-200 |
| Heartworm prevention | $23-120 |
| Spay or neuter surgery | $200-800 |
| Annual exam | $240-600 |
| Teeth cleaning | $200-500 |
| Microchip | $40 |
Average Cost Of Emergency Vet Procedures
| Emergency Pet Procedure | Average Cost Of Procedure |
| General consultation/exam | $100-$150 |
| General bloodwork | $80-200 |
| X-rays | $150-$250 |
| Ultrasound | $300-$600 |
| 1-2 day hospitalization | $600-$1,700 |
| 3-5 day hospitalization | $1,500-$3,500 |
| Wound treatment & repair | $800-$1,500 |
| Emergency surgery | $800-$2,500 |
| Oxygen therapy | $500 |
Common Health Issues For Labradors
Purebred dogs, including Labradors, tend to be prone to health issues. Over the years, some breeders have neglected genetics when breeding Labradors, creating issues that filter down throughout the Lab population. In general, Labradors are more susceptible to genetic problems than other breeds.
These are some of the most common health issues for Labradors:
- Bloat
- Liver problems
- Bleeding disorders
- Hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia
- Bone and joint problems
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
Is Pet Insurance Worth It For Labradors?
Pet insurance protects against unexpected veterinary bills. Many pet owners pay out-of-pocket for their pet’s medical expenses, but most Americans can’t afford a $1500 emergency vet bill. The right pet insurance can literally be a lifesaver. Having coverage will give you the freedom to make medical decisions for your furry family member based on the quality of life, not finances.
The value of pet insurance is largely based on your expectations. If your pet is currently undergoing treatment for a chronic condition and you would like help with the cost of the treatment, you will likely be disappointed as no company in our review covers preexisting conditions.
But, if you understand your policy and what it does and doesn’t cover and have a policy that fits your budget and needs, you are far more likely to consider the policy worth it.
How To Find The Best Pet Insurance Company For You
The costs and types of pet insurance plans available on the market vary by company, making choosing one over the others challenging. To find the best plan for your pet, consider these tips before applying for coverage:
Check Whether Your Pet Is Eligible
Puppies and kittens often must be a minimum of 6 to 10 weeks old to be insured, depending on the company. Senior pets may not be eligible for first-time enrollment with some companies, or they may qualify for accident coverage only. Once the pet is enrolled, though, most plans will offer coverage for life as long as you continue paying the premiums.
Research What’s Covered
Pet insurance plans typically cover expenses like surgery, hospitalization and medication if your pet gets sick or hurt. However, there are certain things that some companies charge extra for or won’t cover at all. Here are a few examples:
- Exam fees. Say your dog breaks her leg. Some plans will reimburse expenses like X-rays, surgery and pain medication, but not the vet’s exam fee.
- Alternative treatments and rehabilitation. Some companies include coverage for things like acupuncture and physical therapy in their standard plans. Others charge extra.
- Behavioral therapies. Not all policies cover veterinary treatment for aggression or other behavioral issues.
- Prescription food. Certain plans won’t cover food or supplements at all, even if your vet prescribes them for a covered condition.·
- Dental care. Pet insurance plans vary widely when it comes to caring for your pet’s teeth. For example, your policy may not cover dental illnesses such as gingivitis or periodontal disease. Alternatively, it may cover them only if your pet has had a recent tooth cleaning. Some add-on wellness plans pay for cleanings.
Note that pet insurance policies usually won’t cover pre-existing conditions, cosmetic procedures, or breeding expenses.
Decide How Much Coverage You Want
Most pet insurance plans cap the amount they pay out per year, although some have no annual limit. Only you can decide the amount that gives you reasonable peace of mind for paying vet bills.
If your dog or cat is relatively healthy, you might go years without paying for anything
but routine care. But an unexpected surgery or serious illness could add up to
thousands of dollars in expenses.
Understand Reimbursements And Deductibles
Most pet insurance plans reimburse you for a percentage of your vet bill. You can generally choose a reimbursement level — such as 70%, 80% or 90% — when you buy the plan.
Other plans pay what the insurance company deems a standard fee for a given treatment,
which might be less than what your vet charges. You’d be responsible for the remainder.
Most plans also have a deductible — the dollar amount you pay out of pocket before the policy pays. You can usually choose from a range of deductibles, such as $100, $250, or more. Some plans apply deductibles to each injury or illness that’s treated. Most have you pay the deductible every year.
Generally, the lower your out-of-pocket costs are, the more you’ll pay for coverage. Alower deductible and higher reimbursement rate can lead to a higher premium, while a higher deductible and lower reimbursement rate can mean a lower premium.
Check Waiting Periods
Most plans include short waiting periods after you purchase the policy for general accident and illness coverage, such as 14 days. Your plan won’t pay for any treatment during the waiting period.
Some plans include longer waiting periods for coverage of certain conditions, such as cruciate ligament injuries — a common orthopedic problem for dogs. The cruciate ligaments help stabilize the knee; when injured, it can make it difficult for a dog to walk.
Examine Extra Costs
Some pet insurance companies offer coverage for routine services such as well visits and vaccinations. While this may sound tempting, do the math to determine whether it’s worth the extra cost. Compare the annual price of the wellness insurance plan with the amount you’d pay each year on your own for services the plan covers. Read the details because the items covered for “wellness” vary by pet insurance company.
Compare Quotes
The cost of insurance varies by carrier and the amount of coverage. Some pet insurers offer discounts; you might be able to save money by insuring more than one pet, for example. But a discount doesn’t guarantee the plan is the best deal.
The only way to find the best insurance for your pet is to dig into the details and get quotes for several plans. Make sure you’re making a fair comparison with similar coverage amounts, deductibles, and reimbursement limits.
Factors That Impact Cost Of Your Pet Insurance Policy
Similar to your health insurance plan, your pet insurance price is going to vary depending on certain factors, such as:
- Where you live. Pet insurance companies take the cost of vet care in your area into account when pricing your policy.
- Your pet’s age. Because older animals are more likely to have health problems, their premiums are generally higher.
- Your pet’s breed. Certain breeds are more prone to health issues. For example, bulldogs and Boston terriers often develop breathing problems, while German Shepherds and other large breeds are more likely than others to get hip dysplasia. These potential problems may be reflected in the cost of your pet insurance plan.
- Your deductibles, coinsurance and coverage limits. The less you’re willing to pay out of pocket for your pet’s care, the higher your pet insurance premium will be. For instance, choosing a $100 deductible instead of a $500 one means your plan will start reimbursing you sooner for your pet’s care — but it’ll cost you more in premiums.
Information About Labradors
Labradors, beloved for their friendly nature and intelligence, are popular retriever breeds. Originating from Newfoundland, they excel as service, therapy, and guide dogs due to their trainability. With a sleek double coat, they come in three standard colors: black, yellow, and chocolate.
Energetic and social, Labradors thrive in active families and enjoy outdoor activities. Their strong sense of smell and innate swimming ability make them excellent waterfowl retrievers. As loyal companions, Labradors forge strong bonds with their owners, displaying gentle and affectionate behavior. Renowned for their joyful disposition and versatility, Labradors continue to be one of the most loved breeds worldwide.
Looking For Pet Insurance For Other Dog Breeds?
FAQs
Is pet insurance cheaper for purebred dogs?
Because purebreds are more likely to have a genetic predisposition to costly diseases and conditions, they are likely to cost more to insure than mixed-breed dogs.
What is the average cost of owning a Labrador?
First-year costs are about $3,000 for vaccinations, food, grooming, and insurance, but the price drops to around $1,900 for each year after.
What insurance do you need for a dog?
A dog should have some level of pet insurance so the owner can pay vet bills that will keep their dog healthy and secure.
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