Best Pet Insurance Plans For Shiba Inus In 2024

Shiba Inus, cherished for their spirited personality and cleverness, are highly regarded among the spitz breeds. Hailing from Japan, they excel as agile and alert companions, often used in hunting small game. With their distinct double coat, they come in various standard colors, including red, sesame, black and tan, and cream.

Vibrant and sociable, Shiba Inus thrive in households that engage in active pursuits and relish outdoor adventures. Their sharp senses and natural hunting instincts make them superb small game hunters. As devoted companions, Shiba Inus form deep connections with their owners, displaying a spirited and affectionate demeanor. Renowned for their spirited character and adaptability, Shiba Inus continue to capture hearts as one of the most beloved spitz breeds worldwide.

If you own a Shiba Inu Retriever, you’re undoubtedly concerned about its health and well-being. As a pure breed, a Shiba Inu 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 Shiba Inus 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.

Common Health Issues For Shiba Inus

Purebred dogs, such as Shiba Inus, often face health problems. Some breeders have not been careful with genetics when breeding Shiba Inus over the years, which has caused issues affecting the whole Shiba Inu population. Generally, Shiba Inus are more likely to have genetic health problems compared to other breeds.

Here are some common health issues for Shiba Inus:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Patellar Luxation
• Eye Conditions (e.g., cataracts, glaucoma, PRA)
• Hypothyroidism
• Dental Issues
• Luxating Trachea
• Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA)

Hip Dysplasia

Hip Dysplasia is a common orthopedic condition in dogs, particularly in certain breeds. It occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to instability and eventual degeneration. This can cause pain, lameness, and reduced mobility in affected dogs. Hip dysplasia is often hereditary, so responsible breeding practices are crucial in reducing its prevalence. Treatment options range from medication and physical therapy to surgical interventions like hip replacement, depending on the severity of the condition.

Surgery can cost anywhere from $1,700 to $6,000+ per hip

Patellar Luxation

Patellar Luxation is another orthopedic issue that affects dogs, where the kneecap (patella) dislocates from its normal position. Small dog breeds are more prone to this condition. Patellar luxation can cause intermittent lameness and pain. Depending on the severity, treatment may include rest, physical therapy, or corrective surgery to reposition the patella and stabilize the knee joint.

Unfortunately, dog luxating patella surgery costs can reach $5,000 per leg

Eye Conditions (e.g., Cataracts, Glaucoma, PRA)

Eye conditions in dogs encompass various issues such as cataracts, glaucoma, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). These conditions can lead to vision impairment or blindness if left untreated. Cataracts involve the clouding of the eye’s lens, while glaucoma is a painful condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure. PRA, on the other hand, is a genetic disorder causing gradual vision loss. Regular eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist are essential for early detection and management of these conditions.

The cost of treatment for eye conditions in dogs can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per year

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a common endocrine disorder in dogs, resulting from an underactive thyroid gland. This condition can lead to a range of symptoms, including weight gain, lethargy, skin problems, and hair loss. A simple blood test can diagnose hypothyroidism, and treatment typically involves daily medication to replace the deficient thyroid hormones. With proper management, most dogs with hypothyroidism can lead normal, healthy lives.

The cost of fixing hypothyroidism without pet insurance can range from $850 in the first year, and $300-$700 for each additional year of your dog’s life

However, the average cost of thyroid hormone deficiency treatment is $1,800

Dental Issues

Dental issues are prevalent in dogs, often caused by plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth and gums. Poor dental hygiene can lead to gingivitis, periodontal disease, and tooth loss. Regular dental care, including brushing your dog’s teeth and providing dental chews or toys, can help prevent these issues. Professional dental cleanings by a veterinarian may also be necessary to address existing problems.

The cost of dog teeth cleaning typically ranges from $250 to $700

However, if the dog needs special treatments for periodontal disease or tooth extractions, the cost can increase by several hundred dollars

Luxating Trachea

Luxating Trachea is a condition where the dog’s windpipe (trachea) collapses or becomes narrowed, leading to breathing difficulties. This condition is more common in small toy breeds and can result in coughing, gagging, or respiratory distress. Treatment options range from medication to surgery, depending on the severity of the tracheal collapse.

The cost of surgical treatment for luxating trachea typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,000

Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA)

Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA) is a serious autoimmune disorder in which the dog’s immune system attacks its own red blood cells. This can lead to severe anemia, weakness, and lethargy. IMHA is a life-threatening condition and requires immediate medical attention. Treatment typically involves medications to suppress the immune system’s response and supportive care to manage anemia. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for the best chance of recovery in affected dogs.

Average Cost Of Pet Insurance For Shiba Inus

Average Cost Of Typical Vet Procedures

Average Cost Of Emergency Vet Procedures

Is Pet Insurance Worth It For Shiba Inus?

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.