Best Pet Insurance For German Shepherds: All You Need to know

pet insurance for german shepherd

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This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Meri Halvari, DVM Candidate.

I’ve compiled everything you need to know to find the best pet insurance for German Shepherds. Having a German Shepherd myself, I understand how costly routine vet visits and everyday preventive care can be. Imagine this scenario: your GSD is playing and suddenly stumbles, resulting in an ACL injury. The veterinary costs in such cases can be astronomical, heavily straining your wallet. To help offset these costs and keep your GSD in excellent health, pet insurance is a lifesaver. I’ve personally reviewed and selected the top pet insurance providers that offer coverage for both adult and puppy German Shepherds. In this guide, I’ll explain why it’s crucial to consider pet insurance for your German Shepherd. Let’s dive in!

Why you should trust us: Our writers, editors, and in-house veterinarians spend hours analyzing and reviewing products and services to help find what’s best for you. Read the product review methodology and editorial mission to find out how we test, analyze, and rate.

Best German Shepherd Pet Insurance — At A Glance

What Is German Shepherd Pet Insurance: Pet insurance is a healthcare policy that provides coverage for your pet, offering reimbursement for specific veterinary expenses. This ensures that your savings remain secure despite unforeseen medical costs. Such a policy involves a monthly premium. Should your pet fall ill or sustain an injury, you would file a claim with the insurance company to recoup your expenses.

The monthly premium for German Shepherd pet insurance

$44 to $63

How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost For German Shepherds?

The cost of pet insurance for a German Shepherd dog will vary based on several factors, including the pet’s existing health conditions, sex, age, and the area you reside in. It’s important to remember that with the progression of veterinary technology and increased claims within your locality, your insurance premiums may rise. For example, even if your German Shepherd is quoted at $55 per month, this rate is not fixed and could change.

According to our research, plans for German Shepherds can range from $44 to $63. You may spend more or less depending on where you live, the deductible rate and the reimbursement percentage you choose. German Shepherd owners can expect to pay an average $54 monthly premium.

Pet Insurance Quotes For German Shepherds

We compared quotes from renowned pet insurance providers to estimate your expected average monthly premium for different life stages in German Shepherds.

CompanyDeductibleReimbursementAnnual Reimbursement LimitMonthly PriceLocationGenderBreedAge
Lemonade$50070%$100,000$49.65SC, 29044MaleGerman Shepherd6 years
Spot$50070%Unlimited$57.74SC, 29044MaleGerman Shepherd6 years
Healthy Paws$50070%Unlimited$60.96SC, 29044MaleGerman Shepherd6 years
Lemonade$50070%$100,000$44.13CA, 95842FemaleGerman Shepherd2 year
Spot$50070%Unlimited$63.16CA, 95842FemaleGerman Shepherd2 year
Healthy Paws$50070%Unlimited$49.80CA, 95842FemaleGerman Shepherd2 year
Lemonade$50070%$100,000$47.53TX, 75219FemaleGerman Shepherd6 months
Spot$50070%Unlimited$62.46TX, 75219FemaleGerman Shepherd6 months
Healthy Paws$50070%Unlimited$54.07TX, 75219FemaleGerman Shepherd6 months

German Shepherd puppy monthly cost: $55

Adult German Shepherd monthly cost: $52

Senior German Shepherd monthly cost: $56

Is Pet Insurance For German Shepherds Worth it?

The decision to purchase pet insurance for your German Shepherd hinges on various factors, including your pet’s health risk proclivity, tolerance for financial risk, and overall financial circumstances.

Consider a scenario where your German Shepherd falls seriously ill or suffers an injury from an accident, incurring veterinary bills in the thousands. On average, the most common dog treatments cost $254.[1] A more severe and common condition in German Shepherds, like Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (Bloat), can cost between $1,500 and $7,500 to diagnose and treat. Can you pay for an unexpected $7,500 veterinary bill out-of-pocket? Most people can’t. The Federal Reserve states that 40% of Americans don’t have enough savings to cover a $400 emergency and 57% of U.S. adults cannot afford a $1,000 emergency expense.[2]

Investing in pet insurance for your German Shepherd is a wise choice to protect your finances and ensure your dog can receive the necessary care. With pet insurance, should an unexpected accident or illness occur, you could be reimbursed for 70% to 100% of the veterinary costs, depending on the details of your plan and provider. Pet insurance gives peace of mind, knowing your finances and pet’s health are covered.

Predict & Protect Your German Shepherd’s Future Health

Canine Bible uses years of clinical health findings, pet insurance data points, trends, and surveys to identify common health conditions in dogs. By gaining insight into your German Shepherd’s potential future health issues and risks, you can take preventive action today and ensure that your German Shepherd does not become a part of these statistics.

1 in 3

dogs will need emergency veterinary treatment every year.

$250 to $8K

is the average cost of unexpected veterinary care for dogs.[3]

13.6%

of GSDs die from musculoskeletal disorders and inability to stand.[4]

7.89%

of GSDs are affected by ear canal inflammation.[5]

If you know your dog’s breed is predisposed to certain health issues, we strongly advise getting a pet insurance policy while your dog is still healthy. Chronic health conditions, emergencies, and vet visits can rack up costs throughout your German Shepherd’s life. Pet Insurance can spare you a lot of financial trouble.

Dogs that develop chronic conditions under pet insurance coverage are guaranteed reimbursement for these issues for the duration of their life.

Most Common Health Conditions In German Shepherds

Cost to treat cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy in dogs refers to heart muscle diseases impairing the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively. This condition can lead to heart enlargement, diminished cardiac function, and ultimately heart failure.

  • Cost: $1,250
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $1125*
  • Risk profile: High

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat aortic stenosis

Aortic stenosis in German Shepherd dogs is a heart condition where the aortic valve narrows, hindering blood flow from the heart. It can cause fatigue, fainting, and heart murmurs.

  • Cost: $4,000
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $3,600*
  • Risk profile: Medium

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat bloat

Bloat also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus, is a rapid stomach expansion with gas and often a twist, obstructing blood flow. It’s a life-threatening emergency causing distress, drooling, and a swollen belly.

  • Cost: $4,500
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $4,050*
  • Risk profile: High

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat hypertrophic osteodystrophy

Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy in German Shepherds is a bone disease affecting rapidly growing large breed puppies. It causes pain, swelling in limbs, and fever. The cause is unknown, but it’s linked to diet and genetics.

  • Cost: $1,350
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $1,215*
  • Risk profile: Medium

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat hip dysplasia

Hip dysplasia involves abnormal development of the hip joint, leading to looseness and instability. This genetic disorder is exacerbated by rapid growth, obesity, and environmental factors. Symptoms include limping, difficulty in movement, and arthritis.

  • Cost: $4,500
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $4,050*
  • Risk profile: High

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat osteochondrosis of the shoulder

Osteochondrosis in the shoulder of German Shepherds results from the disruption of normal cartilage growth, leading to joint inflammation and lameness. This typically occurs during rapid growth phases in young dogs, influenced by genetic and dietary factors.

  • Cost: $3,000
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $2,700*
  • Risk profile: Medium

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat cataracts

Cataracts in German Shepherds result in the lens of the eye becoming opaque, significantly impairing vision. Often hereditary, they can also arise from aging, diabetes, or eye injuries. Initially, cataracts may cause slight visual disturbances but can progress to blindness. Surgical removal is the primary treatment to improve sight.

  • Cost: $3,500
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $3,150*
  • Risk profile: High

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat epilepsy

Epilepsy in German Shepherds is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent seizures, which can range from mild, barely noticeable episodes to severe convulsions. The cause is often genetic, making it a hereditary issue within the breed. Managing epilepsy typically involves long-term medication to control seizures and regular veterinary monitoring.

  • Cost: $3,500
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $3,150*
  • Risk profile: Low

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat elbow dysplasia

A common issue in large breeds, elbow dysplasia in German Shepherds stems from abnormal development of the elbow joint, leading to joint laxity, pain, and lameness. Genetics plays a significant role, and it can be exacerbated by rapid growth during puppyhood or improper nutrition.

  • Cost: $3,000
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $2,700*
  • Risk profile: High

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat degenerative myelopathy

This progressive disease of the spinal cord typically appears in older dogs. It results in weakness and paralysis in the hind limbs, eventually leading to full paralysis. The cause is a genetic mutation, and while there’s no cure, supportive care can help manage symptoms and maintain quality of life.

  • Cost: $3,000
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $2,700*
  • Risk profile: High

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat perianal fistula

In German Shepherds, this condition involves the formation of painful, ulcer-like openings around the anus due to chronic inflammation, often linked to immune system disorders.

  • Cost: $5,000
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $4,500*
  • Risk profile: High

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat megaesophagus

This condition involves a dilated esophagus with reduced or absent motility, preventing normal food passage to the stomach. It results in regurgitation, weight loss, and aspiration pneumonia. Causes include congenital defects, neuromuscular diseases, or idiopathic origins. Management focuses on dietary modifications and feeding in an upright position.

  • Cost: $500
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $450*
  • Risk profile: Medium

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat hyperparathyroidism

This occurs when the parathyroid glands produce too much hormone, resulting in elevated calcium levels in the blood, which can cause bone and kidney issues.

  • Cost: $8,000
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $7,200*
  • Risk profile: High

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat hemivertebrae

This is a congenital spinal condition where the vertebrae are misshapen, causing spinal curvature and potentially leading to neurological problems.

  • Cost: $6,000
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $5,400*
  • Risk profile: Low

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat compulsive behaviors

These are repetitive, invariant behavior patterns without obvious purpose, often stemming from stress, frustration, or genetic predisposition. Common behaviors in German Shepherds include tail chasing, pacing, and excessive licking. Management involves behavioral modification, environmental enrichment, and sometimes medication.

  • Cost: $3,000
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $2,700*
  • Risk profile: High

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Cost to treat corneal dystrophy

This genetic condition involves the deposition of opaque material in the cornea, leading to visual impairment. It’s usually bilateral and non-inflammatory. Symptoms may include cloudy or opaque areas in the cornea. Treatment is symptomatic and aims to manage any secondary complications like ulcers.

  • Cost: $3,000
  • Pet insurance pays back up to: $2,700*
  • Risk profile: High

*The overall cost of diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries may vary. The above cost is based on average veterinary vet bill reports and claims submitted by pet insurance policyholders. We’ve used a 90% reimbursement rate for this scenario.

Why Get Pet Insurance For German Shepherds?

Benefits For German Shepherds

  • Access to better care and health outcomes due to financial barriers removed
  • Cover hereditary conditions and get better breed-specific care
  • Prompt access to medical treatments
  • Ongoing access to healthcare and emergency care
  • Preventive care options
  • Facilitates treatment from specialists

Benefits For Owners

  • Decreases the likelihood of economic euthanasia when the cost is a limiting factor for treatment
  • Reduces unexpected veterinary costs
  • Financial peace of mind
  • Cover third-party liabilities
  • Avoid veterinary rising cost
  • Can help you find your missing/stolen pet

How to Pick The Best German Shepherd Pet Insurance

Pick a type of pet InsuranceWhile the most popular type of pet insurance includes accident and illness coverage, an accident-only policy might be your only choice if your pet is ineligible for it or is beyond your budget. Additionally, if you’re interested in lowering the costs of routine preventative care, seek an insurance provider that also offers wellness coverage.
Check whether your pet is eligibleMost insurance companies mandate that pets be at least 6 to 10 weeks old for eligibility. Conversely, enrolling older pets for the first time may lead to limitations, with some companies offering only accident coverage. Nonetheless, once enrolled, most plans cover your pet for life, provided you continue to pay the premiums.
Pre-existing conditionsMost pet insurance policies do not cover pre-existing conditions unless deemed curable. Some insurers may provide coverage if the pet’s condition is curable and has not required treatment for a specified period, like the past 12 months.
Review cost versus benefitsGet quotes from multiple insurers for your German Shepherd to compare monthly premiums. Consider the value of each plan by weighing the cost against the benefits provided.
Breed-specific needs and coverageConsider your German Shepherd’s age, current health status, and any potential hereditary conditions common in the breed, and pick your plan accordingly.
Compare insurance providersGet quotes from multiple insurers for your German Shepherd to compare monthly premiums. Research and list reputable pet insurance providers that offer plans for German Shepherds.
Check the fine print and exclusion policyRead the terms and conditions to understand the policy’s limitations and exclusions. Some insurers may also refuse to cover common conditions associated with certain breeds. 
Check waiting periodsTypically, pet insurance coverage kicks in after 14 days of signing up. Any treatments your pet receives won’t be covered during this waiting period. However, some plans impose longer waiting periods for certain conditions.
Choose a deductible and reimbursement levelModifying your deductible and reimbursement levels allows you to either raise or lower your monthly premium. Opting for a higher deductible can reduce your premium but might lead to higher costs during vet visits. The ideal balance depends on whether you prefer paying more over time and less during a claim or vice versa.
Sign up as early as possibleThe earlier you sign your pet insurance, the lower the monthly premiums because younger pets are typically healthier and less likely to require extensive veterinary care, which translates to lower risk for the insurance company. Also, some pet insurance plans lock in the premium rate based on the pet’s age at enrollment.
Look for additional perks and discountsSome pet insurers offer multi-pet discounts, loyalty benefits, discounts for microchipped pets, alternative therapy coverage and travel insurance.

Best Pet Insurance For German Shepherds

1. Best Overall German Shepherd Pet Insurance

4.8

Lemonade

Who It’s For: Excellent for German Shepherd parents seeking the best all-around comprehensive coverage for accidents & illness at a value price.

  • Deductible: $100, $250, $500 or $750
  • Reimbursement rates: 70%, 80% or 90%
  • Annual payout limit: $5,000, $10,000, $20,000, $50,000 or $100,000

Why we picked and recommended it: We named Lemonade our best overall pet insurance for German Shepherds for its comprehensive coverage, pricing, availability, and customer service. Lemonade premiums usually start at just $10 monthly, the lowest in the industry. We ran a few quotes for a healthy German Shepherd at a $500 deductible and 70% coverage to estimate your monthly premium. Based on our research, you can expect to pay between $44 and $50 monthly. We love that Lemonade is tech-forward, making it easy to manage your policy and file claims through an app. Their plans cover accidents and illnesses, including injuries, poisonings, broken bones, sprains, infections, general sicknesses, cancer, heart disease, hip dysplasia, hernias, skin conditions and more. They also offer several add-ons to help pet owners pay for exam fees, physical therapy, and preventive care.

2. Best Personalized German Shepherd Pet Insurance

4.9

Spot Insurance

Who It’s For: Spot Pet Insurance is ideal for German Shepherd dog owners who want the most flexibility when customizing their policy to fit their budget and coverage needs.

  • Deductible: $100, $250, $500, $750 or $1,000
  • Reimbursement rates: 70%, 80% or 90%
  • Annual payout limit: $2,500 to Unlimited

Why we picked and recommended it: Spot Pet Insurance offers seven annual limit options, three reimbursement levels, and five annual deductibles. They offer the lowest deductible in the industry ($100), meaning that when your German Shepherd gets sick, you pay less upfront before your plan starts paying. With so many customization options, this company is our top pick for finding a plan for meeting your specific financial needs and those of your pet. Spot’s policies also cover some items, such as exam fees and microchipping, that many other pet insurance providers don’t offer. They also have one of the cheapest plans for accident-only coverage, making it perfect for pet owners who only need minimal coverage. We ran a few quotes for a healthy German Shepherd at a $500 deductible and 70% coverage, based on our research, you can expect to pay between $57 and $63, but prices may vary depending on your location, German Shepherd’s age, and other factors. Spot covers you when your German Shepherd gets hurt unexpectedly, from tooth extractions and torn ligaments to surgery and hospitalizations.

3. Best No-Cap Payout German Shepherd Pet Insurance

4.9

Healthy Paws

Who It’s For: With no financial cap, it’s ideal for covering major medical or ongoing expenses such as chronic conditions. Beneficial for high-risk breeds such as German Shepherd.

  • Deductible: $100, $250 or $500
  • Reimbursement rates: 70%, 80% or 90%
  • Annual payout limit: Unlimited

Why we picked and recommended it: Healthy Paws offers the benefit of no cap payout, meaning there’s no maximum limit on the amount they will pay, which is particularly advantageous for severe conditions or chronic diseases that require ongoing, expensive treatments. With no financial cap, you can choose the best treatments for your pet. This can include access to advanced medical procedures, specialized surgeries, or cutting-edge treatments that might otherwise be prohibitively expensive. Additionally, Healthy Paws stands out for its quick claim processing, typically paying 99% of claims in two days, notably faster than many competitors. We ran a quote for a healthy German Shepherd at a $500 deductible with 70% coverage. Depending on your location, pet’s age, and other factors, you can expect to pay between $50 and $61. Healthy Paws insurance plans cover accidents and illnesses, cancer, emergency care, genetic conditions, alternative care, etc. They have competitive premium prices and fewer coverage exclusions.

Types of Pet Insurance Coverage For German Shepherds

There are two main types of pet insurance plans.

It covers accident-related medical care such as ingestion of foreign objects, poisoning, or if your German Shepherd was hit by a car. Accident-only plans are typically more affordable than accident and illness policies. This can be a reasonable option for a pet with many pre-existing conditions.

Common items covered by this plan include: broken bones, torn ligaments, bite wounds, poisoning, injuries, emergencies, eye injuries, snake bites and toxic food ingestion.

These policies are the most popular because they cover accidents and illnesses, including unexpected medical expenses. Because no provider covers pre-existing conditions, signing your pet up for coverage as early as possible is crucial.

Common items covered by this plan include: Accidents plus illnesses such as obesity, UTIs, cancer, hypothyroidism, digestive issues, IVDD, vomiting and diarrhea, arthritis and parasites.

Some companies also offer a wellness plan (aka preventative care) during enrollment. This commonly covers routine vet expenses but varies by provider. It’s typically available as an add-on to an accident-only or accident-and-illness policy, but some companies allow you to purchase it without an insurance policy. This add-on coverage isn’t technically an insurance product.

Common items covered by this plan include: Flea, ticket and worm treatments, rabies, microchipping, de-working, teeth cleaning, routine tests, annual exams, spay and neuter and urine analysis.

What Does Pet Insurance Not Cover?

When choosing pet insurance for your German Shepherd, reviewing and understanding your policy’s exclusions is important.

Exclusions vary based on the pet insurance company and the policy you choose. Be sure to review the list of exclusions before purchasing pet insurance to confirm that your German Shepherd is adequately covered by the plan you select and help prevent surprises in the future.

  • Grooming
  • Pre-existing conditions
  • Unrelated veterinary services
  • Behavioral training, therapy or treatment 
  • Breeding and pregnancy
  • Dog food or dietary or nutritional supplements
  • Cosmetic procedures
  • Boarding and transportation

Pet Insurance For German Shepherd Puppies

Should you get pet insurance for your German Shepherd puppy? Here are the top reasons you should consider German Shepherd puppy insurance.

Enrolling your pet at a younger age, when they are healthy and less likely to have developed any health issues, means there’s a lower risk for pet insurance companies, which usually means lower premiums.

Because German Shepherds are predisposed to certain health issues, it’s wise to insure your German Shepherd puppy before any symptoms or diagnoses occur. Most pet insurance providers don’t cover pre-existing conditions. However, if your insured puppy develops a condition later, like cancer, allergies, or diabetes, your policy will likely cover its treatment and ongoing expenses.

German Shepherd puppies are curious and often get into mischief, increasing their risk of accidents and infections from bacteria or viruses.

Raising a puppy comes with various expenses, including vet bills. On average, 81% of pet parents spend up to $500 on veterinary visits during their puppy’s first year. Additionally, the ASPCA notes that the upfront costs of first-year pet ownership can exceed $1,000, including expenses for toys, food, and medical care.

Average Cost of German Shepherd Vet Bills

This is what you will pay out-of-pocket on average if you don’t have pet insurance or a wellness plan.

Average Cost of Typical Vet Procedures

Typical Vet ProcedureAverage Cost of Procedure
Puppy vaccinations$75 - $100
Flea & tick prevention$40 - $200
Heartworm prevention$24 - $120
Spay or neuter surgery$200 - $800
Annual exam$240 - $600
Teeth cleaning$200 - $500
Microchip$40

Average Cost of Emergency Vet Procedures 

Typical Vet ProcedureAverage 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 days holspitalization$1,500 - $3,500
Wound treatment & repair$800 - $1,500
Emergency surgery$800 - $2,500
Oxygen therapy500

Sources: 5 & 6

Factors That Impact the Cost of Your German Shepherd Pet Insurance Policy

Understand Insurance Policy Basics

  • Premium. The amount you pay monthly or annually for your pet insurance policy.
  • Deductible. The money you need to pay out-of-pocket for veterinary expenses before your policy begins to reimburse you. This is typically reset each policy period (annually). However, some pet insurance providers have per-incident deductibles, which you must pay for every new condition your dog suffers before receiving any reimbursement for that incident. Annual vs. per-incident deductibles can impact the amount you’re expected to pay, so read the policy before committing to a company.
  • Reimbursement rate. The percentage of the vet bill the insurance company will pay after you meet your deductible. The most popular reimbursement options are 70%, 80%, and 90%. However, some companies provide different or limited options depending on the dog’s age or location.
  • Annual payout limit. The maximum amount the insurance company will pay in medical bills per year. Having lower payout limits could result in you covering more of the expenses if your pet requires costly veterinary care.
  • Co-pay (co-insurance). The portion of the veterinary bill you must pay after your deductible is met, before reimbursements. In broader health insurance contexts, a “co-pay” often refers to a fixed amount (for example, $20 per doctor’s visit), regardless of the total bill, whereas “co-insurance” is typically a percentage of the total cost.

How Does German Shepherds Pet Insurance Work?

Imagine your German Shepherd’s pet insurance policy has the following terms:

  • Annual deductible: $250
  • Reimbursement rate: 70%
  • Annual payout limit: $10,000
  • Co-insurance: 30%

Now, let’s say your German Shepherd incurs a veterinary bill of $1,000 for medical treatment.

  • Paying the deductible: The first step is to pay your deductible, which, in this case, is $250.
  • Applying co-insurance: After the deductible, there’s $750 left ($1,000 – $250). The co-insurance of 30% applies to this amount. This means you are responsible for 30% of $750, which equals $225.
  • Insurance pays the rest: The insurance will cover 70% of the post-deductible amount. So, the insurance pays 70% of $750, which is $525.
  • Total out-of-pocket cost: Adding up your deductible and co-insurance payments gives you your total out-of-pocket cost: $250 (deductible) + $225 (co-insurance) = $475.

This example assumes you haven’t yet met your deductible for the year. If you’ve already met your annual deductible, you won’t have to pay again for this or any new claims within the same policy year. And, since every claim you make contributes to your annual payout limit after the insurance company pays $525 for this claim, the remaining yearly payout limit is $10,000 – $525 = $9,475.

Frequently Asked Question

Pet insurance for a German Shepherd puppy starts at $55 on average.

To save money on pet insurance for your German Shepherd, consider paying your premiums annually instead of monthly. This is because many insurance companies charge additional transaction fees for monthly payments, which can be reduced or eliminated with annual payments. Additionally, if you have multiple pets, look for insurers that offer multi-pet discounts. This can lead to up to 10% savings on each pet’s insurance over their lifetime. However, it’s important to note that some companies only apply these discounts to additional pets, not the first one, so check this detail before signing up for a new policy.

Ideally, as early as possible, typically 6-10 weeks old, to ensure coverage for breed-specific conditions.

German Shepherds are prone to certain breed-specific health issues like arthritis, hip dysplasia, and cancers, which pet insurance can cover more effectively and take out the financial burden of covering all the costs yourself.

Older German Shepherds can get pet insurance but options may be limited, and premiums higher due to the increased risk of health issues.

Typically, you pay the vet bill upfront, submit a claim form to the insurance company, and get reimbursed as per your policy.

German Shepherd Pet Insurance — Conclusion

If money is not an issue for you and you can pay for unforeseen pet health emergencies, you probably don’t need pet insurance. But if you don’t have a couple of thousand dollars on hand for surgery, you should consider getting pet insurance for your GSD! Having coverage will give you the freedom to make medical decisions for your beloved German Shepherd based on the quality of life, not finances. If you decide to get pet insurance, read the policy carefully, and understand the terms and conditions before buying.


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Disclaimer: The details about insurance company offerings, including prices, availability, and contract specifics, can change at any time and are at the discretion of the insurance company. This website does not control these changes. The information provided here is for reference only. It is important to thoroughly read and understand your policy before signing up for a new insurance contract, as your situation may differ from the examples used in this article.

Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. Breiner, B. (2023). Average Cost of Pet Insurance: 2023 Quotes. ValuePenguin.
  2. Gillespie, L. (2023, February 23). Bankrate’s Annual Emergency Fund Report. Bankrate.
  3. Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. (2019). 2019 Cost of Pet Health Care Report.
  4. O’Neill, D. G., Coulson, N. R., Church, D. B., & Brodbelt, D. C. (2017). Demography and disorders of German Shepherd Dogs under primary veterinary care in the UKCanine Genetics and Epidemiology4(1).
  5. Study highlights potential health consequences of selectively breeding German Shepherd Dogs. (n.d.).
  6. Average Cost Of Emergency Vet Visits | Find Out What You Will Pay. (2020, March 19). Emergency Vets USA.
  7. Cost of Owning a Dog: From Initial Cost to Annual Essentials. (n.d.). The Dog People.
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