Best Pet Insurance For Mastiffs In 2024

If you own a Mastiff, you’re undoubtedly concerned about its health and well-being. As a pure breed, a Mastiff 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 Mastiffs 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.

Average Cost Of Pet Insurance For Mastiffs

Common Health Issues For Mastiffs

Mastiffs, adored for their gentle demeanor and impressive stature, are beloved working dog breeds. Originating from ancient civilizations, they excel as loyal protectors and guardians due to their imposing presence. With a thick, powerful build and distinctive wrinkled face, they captivate admirers in various coat colors, including fawn, apricot, and brindle.

Steadfast and devoted, Mastiffs thrive in homes where their loyalty and protective nature can be cherished. Their keen instinct and formidable strength make them exceptional guard dogs. As cherished companions, Mastiffs establish deep connections with their families, showcasing affectionate and watchful behavior. Celebrated for their majestic presence and unwavering devotion, Mastiffs continue to be cherished worldwide for their remarkable qualities.

Purebred dogs, including Mastiffs, tend to be prone to health issues. Over the years, some breeders have neglected genetics when breeding Mastiffs, creating issues that filter down throughout the Mastiff population. In general, Mastiffs are more susceptible to genetic problems than other breeds.

These are some of the most common health issues for Mastiffs:

• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)
• Entropion
• Ectropion
• Cardiomyopathy
• Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer)
• Cystinuria

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat):

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat) is a critical condition commonly seen in Mastiffs. It involves the stomach filling with gas, leading to twisting, which can obstruct blood flow and potentially damage organs. Symptoms include a distended abdomen, restlessness, and unproductive vomiting. Immediate veterinary attention is vital, often requiring surgery to untwist the stomach. Preventative measures include feeding smaller, frequent meals, avoiding exercise after eating, and managing stress levels. Bloat is a life-threatening emergency, and awareness of the symptoms and quick response are crucial for the well-being of Mastiffs.

The cost of treating bloat in dogs can vary depending on the severity and the type of treatment required. Surgical options may range from $1,500 to $7,500 or more, while non-surgical management may cost $500 to $1,500.

Entropion:

Entropion is a prevalent eye condition in Mastiffs, where the eyelid rolls inward, causing irritation and discomfort due to eyelashes and hair rubbing against the cornea. This can lead to corneal ulcers and vision impairment. Surgical correction is the typical treatment, involving repositioning the eyelid. Regular eye examinations and prompt veterinary care are essential for early detection and appropriate management. Addressing entropion ensures Mastiffs have clear, healthy vision and a comfortable, pain-free experience.

The cost of treating entropion in dogs can vary depending on the severity and the type of treatment required. Surgical options may range from $300 to $1,500 or more, while non-surgical management may cost $100 to $500.

Ectropion:

Ectropion is another eye condition in Mastiffs, characterized by the lower eyelid turning outward, exposing the inner eyelid and causing irritation and discomfort. While ectropion isn’t as common as entropion, it can still lead to eye issues like conjunctivitis and increased tear production. In mild cases, artificial tears and ointments can help manage symptoms. Severe cases may require surgical correction. Regular eye check-ups with a veterinarian are crucial for monitoring eye health and addressing ectropion promptly.

The cost of treating ectropion in dogs can vary depending on the severity and the type of treatment required. Surgical options may range from $300 to $1,500 or more, while non-surgical management may cost $100 to $500.

Cardiomyopathy:

Cardiomyopathy, a prevalent cardiac condition in Mastiffs, involves a weakened heart muscle, hindering its ability to pump blood effectively. This condition can lead to heart failure, arrhythmias, and other complications. Common signs include fatigue, difficulty breathing, and a decreased exercise tolerance. Regular veterinary check-ups and medication management are crucial to slow the disease’s progression and manage symptoms, enhancing the affected Mastiff’s quality of life. Heart-healthy lifestyle measures and a low-sodium diet may also be recommended.

The cost of treating cardiomyopathy in dogs can vary depending on the severity and the type of treatment required. This may include regular veterinary check-ups, medication, and monitoring. The cost can range from $500 to $2,000 or more per year.

Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer):

Osteosarcoma, a prevalent form of bone cancer in Mastiffs, involves the abnormal growth of cells in the bone, leading to pain, swelling, and potential fractures. It’s a highly aggressive cancer often requiring amputation of the affected limb and further treatments like chemotherapy. Early detection and intervention are critical for the best outcome. Palliative care and pain management play a crucial role in improving the affected Mastiff’s comfort and mobility, enhancing their quality of life.

The cost of treating osteosarcoma in dogs can vary depending on the location, stage, and the type of treatment required. This may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The cost can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more.

Cystinuria:

Cystinuria is a genetic disorder seen in Mastiffs, causing the formation of cystine crystals in the kidneys and urinary tract. These crystals can lead to urinary tract stones, potentially causing pain and difficulty in urination. Management involves a special diet to prevent stone formation and ensure adequate water intake. Regular monitoring and veterinary care are crucial to prevent complications and maintain the affected Mastiff’s urinary tract health. Awareness of this condition allows owners to take proactive steps in managing their Mastiff’s diet and health effectively.

The cost of treating cystinuria in dogs can vary depending on the severity and the type of treatment required. This may include dietary changes, medication, and regular veterinary check-ups. The cost can range from $500 to $2,000 or more per year.

Average Cost Of Typical Vet Procedures

Average Cost Of Emergency Vet Procedures

Is Pet Insurance Worth It For Mastiffs?

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.