It is always recommended that you get insurance for your dog, as you never know when they might need veterinary care. We all know that veterinary care costs money. Therefore getting insurance can provide peace of mind, as it can help to cover high proportions of veterinary treatment, covering both emergency, and long-term conditions. However – yes, there are some breeds of dog that will be very difficult to insure.
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Dogs listed under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991
The Dangerous Dogs Act was brought in with the intention to reduce illegal dog fighting in the UK. Therefore, it is against the law to own certain breeds of dog. These are:
- Pit Bull Terrier
- Japanese Tosa
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasiliero
Sometimes you can get an official exemption from court if it is deemed the dog is not a danger to the public. However, you will struggle to find a company that will provide insurance to any dog on the list; even if you own a crossbreed of these dogs.
Larger breeds
Some companies will be unwilling to insure large breed dogs such as the Saint Bernard, Great Danes and Alaskan Malamutes. This is likely because their overall vet bills will be a lot higher due to a need for larger amounts of medication/resources. Be sure to check which insurance companies will provide cover if you own one of these breeds.
Brachycephalic breeds
This means ‘flat-faced dogs’ such as Pugs, French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs. They are very likely to develop ‘brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome’ (BOAS) during their lifetime. If they develop symptoms associated with that condition before insuring them (as it will be a ‘pre-existing condition’), it is unlikely you’ll get cover for any medical attention required. Be aware that insurance premiums for this breed are likely to be much higher. If you get one of these breeds, think about insuring them as quickly as possible.
Breeds with known hereditary conditions
It may be difficult to get insurance if you own a breed that is very likely to develop a known hereditary disease. An example of this is Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, who are very likely to develop heart disease. Even if you are able to insure them, it may put up the cost of insurance premiums. So do your research into any health conditions your chosen breed may be pre-disposed to.
Dogs used for breeding, hunting, racing and guarding
Insurers will only cover dogs that are kept as pets. Therefore, you will find it hard to come by an insurance company that will cover any dog used for breeding, hunting, racing, guarding or any trade. Greyhounds that were once used for racing, but have moved onto homes to become family pets can be insured.
If you are considering breeding from your dog, you may be able to get breeder’s insurance, -this is a type of policy that is very different from pet insurance, but will cover complications that a dog may experience during pregnancy and birthing.
In conclusion
While it is rare, there are some cases where dogs will be uninsurable. Do check with insurance providers before taking out a policy and be sure to research which company and policy will be most suitable for you and your pet. Not all insurance providers are the same – a breed that one company may be happy to insure, may not be covered by another.
If you are considering any of the breeds mentioned above, think about how this may affect insurance policies – whether it will increase the cost of premiums or if you will be able to take out insurance at all.
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