Best Pet Insurance For Golden Retrievers: Is It Worth The Cost?
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This is the most comprehensive guide to finding the best pet insurance for Golden Retrievers. Accidents happen. Like humans, dogs get into things they’re not supposed to or slip on something and fall. Unexpected illnesses or chronic health problems can also occur, so you want a health insurance company that will provide a high level of care. But is it worth it? If so, which company should I go with? This is a tricky question because many factors are involved in deciding which dog insurance company best fits your dog.
Today, you will learn breed-specific reasons to consider pet insurance for your Goldens, including how likely this breed is to have accidents and health issues. We also share our top picks for the best pet insurance providers covering adult and puppy Golden Retrievers. Let’s dive right 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 Golden Retriever Pet Insurance — At A Glance
What Is Golden Retriever 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 Golden Retrievers pet insurance
$41 to $77
How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost For Golden Retrievers?
The cost of pet insurance for a Golden Retriever 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 Golden Retriever is quoted at $55 per month, this rate is not fixed and could change.
According to our research, plans for Golden Retrievers can range from $41 to $77. You may spend more or less depending on where you live, the deductible rate and the reimbursement percentage you choose. Golden Retriever owners can expect to pay an average $59 monthly premium.
Pet Insurance Quotes For Golden Retrievers
We compared quotes from renowned pet insurance providers to estimate your expected average monthly premium for different life stages in Golden Retrievers.
Company | Deductible | Reimbursement | Annual Reimbursement Limit | Monthly Price | Location | Gender | Breed | Age |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lemonade | $500 | 70% | $100,000 | $50.88 | SC, 29044 | Male | Golden Retriever | 6 years |
Spot | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $74.48 | SC, 29044 | Male | Golden Retriever | 6 years |
Healthy Paws | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $60.96 | SC, 29044 | Male | Golden Retriever | 6 years |
Lemonade | $500 | 70% | $100,000 | $40.97 | CA, 95842 | Female | Golden Retriever | 2 year |
Spot | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $75.16 | CA, 95842 | Female | Golden Retriever | 2 year |
Healthy Paws | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $45.29 | CA, 95842 | Female | Golden Retriever | 2 year |
Lemonade | $500 | 70% | $100,000 | $50.17 | TX, 75219 | Female | Golden Retriever | 6 months |
Spot | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $77.33 | TX, 75219 | Female | Golden Retriever | 6 months |
Healthy Paws | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $54.07 | TX, 75219 | Female | Golden Retriever | 6 months |
Golden puppy monthly cost: $61
Adult Golden monthly cost: $54
Senior Golden monthly cost: $62
Is Pet Insurance For Golden Retrievers Worth it?
The decision to purchase pet insurance for your Golden Retriever hinges on various factors, including your pet’s health risk proclivity, tolerance for financial risk, and overall financial circumstances.
Consider a scenario where your Golden Retriever 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 Golden Retrievers, like Cancer, can cost between $8,000 and $15,000 to diagnose and treat. Can you pay for an unexpected out-of-pocket $15,000 veterinary bill? 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 Golden Retriever 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 Golden Retriever’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 Golden Retriever’s potential future health issues and risks, you can take preventive action today and ensure that your Golden Retriever 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]
73%
(1 in 9) of Goldens in the U.S. suffer from Hip Dysplasia.[4],[5]
60%
of Golden Retrievers are impacted by cancer.[6]
Other alarming statistics about Golden Retrievers include the prevalence of Subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS), reported at 4.7 %.[7] Similarly, 1 in 4 Golden Retrievers develop hypothyroidism throughout their lives.[8]
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 increase costs throughout your Golden Retriever’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 Golden Retriever
Cost to treat cardiomyopathy
Cancer in dogs is the abnormal growth of cells in their body, often leading to tumors. It can affect any organ, showing varied symptoms, and requires veterinary diagnosis and treatment.
*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 Golder Retrievers is a heart condition where the aortic valve narrows, hindering blood flow from the heart. It can cause fatigue, fainting, and heart murmurs.
*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 entropion
Entropion in Golder Retrievers is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing eyelashes to rub against the cornea. This results in discomfort, tearing, and potential corneal damage. It’s often inherited, though can also arise from eyelid injuries or muscular spasms. Treatment typically involves surgical correction.
*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.
*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 Golder Retrievers 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.
*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 Golder Retrievers 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.
*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 portosystemic shunts
Portosystemic shunts in dogs involve abnormal blood vessel connections allowing blood to bypass the liver, leading to unfiltered blood reaching systemic circulation. This condition can cause toxins to accumulate, affecting neurological and digestive health. It’s often congenital, resulting from genetic predispositions in this breed.
*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 ichthyosis
This is a skin condition in Golden Retrievers where the skin develops excessive scales, resembling fish scales, hence the name. It’s genetic and usually apparent from a young age. Symptoms include flaky skin, dandruff, and sometimes itching. The severity can vary, and it’s generally a cosmetic issue, though severe cases can require management.
*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 Golden Retrievers stems from abnormal elbow joint development, leading to joint laxity, pain, and lameness. Genetics plays a significant role and can be exacerbated by rapid growth during puppyhood or improper nutrition.
*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 Golden Retrievers?
Benefits For Golden Retrievers
Benefits For Owners
How to Pick The Best Golden Retriever Pet Insurance
Best Pet Insurance For Golden Retrievers
1. Best Overall Golden Retriever Pet Insurance
Lemonade
Who It’s For: Excellent for Golden Retriever parents seeking the best all-around comprehensive coverage for accidents & illness at a value price.
Why we picked and recommended it: We named Lemonade our best overall pet insurance for Golden Retriever 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 Golden Retriever at a $500 deductible and 70% coverage to estimate your monthly premium. Based on our research, you can expect to pay between $41 and $51 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 Golden Retriever Pet Insurance
Spot Insurance
Who It’s For: Spot Pet Insurance is ideal for Golden Retriever dog owners who want the most flexibility when customizing their policy to fit their budget and coverage needs.
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 Golden Retriever 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 Golden Retriever at a $500 deductible and 70% coverage; based on our research, you can expect to pay between $74 and $77, but prices may vary depending on your location; Golden Retrievers age, and other factors. Spot covers you when your Golden Retriever gets hurt unexpectedly, from tooth extractions and torn ligaments to surgery and hospitalizations.
3. Best No-Cap Payout Golden Retriever Pet Insurance
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 Golden Retriever.
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 Golden Retriever at a $500 deductible with 70% coverage. Depending on your location, pet’s age, and other factors, you can expect to pay between $45 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 Golden Retriever
There are two main types of pet insurance plans.
What Does Pet Insurance Not Cover?
When choosing pet insurance for your Golden Retriever, 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 Golden Retriever is adequately covered by the plan you select and help prevent surprises in the future.
Pet Insurance For Golden Retriever Puppies
Should you get pet insurance for your Golden Retriever puppy? Here are the top reasons you should consider Golden Retriever puppy insurance.
Average Cost of Golden Retriever 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 Procedure | Average 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 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 days holspitalization | $1,500 - $3,500 |
Wound treatment & repair | $800 - $1,500 |
Emergency surgery | $800 - $2,500 |
Oxygen therapy | 500 |
Sources: 9 & 10
Factors That Impact the Cost of Your Golden Retriever Pet Insurance Policy
Deductibles, co-pays & coverage limits
The lower the amount you pay out of pocket for your pet’s care, the higher your insurance premium will be. For instance, selecting a deductible of $300 instead of $800 means you’ll get reimbursed quicker for your pet’s care, but it also leads to higher premium payments.
Breed
Certain breeds are prone to congenital health issues. For example, breeds such as Golden Retriever often struggle with Cancer and bloat. These breed tendencies could influence your pet insurance expenses.
Location
Local veterinary care expenses are taken into account by pet insurance companies when setting the price of your policy.
Pet’s Age
Older pets generally face more health problems, which results in higher insurance premiums because there is a higher risk for the insurance company.
Understand Insurance Policy Basics
How Does Golden Retriever Pet Insurance Work?
Imagine your Golden Retriever’s pet insurance policy has the following terms:
Now, let’s say your Golden Retriever incurs a veterinary bill of $5,000 for medical treatment.
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 $4,320 for this claim, the remaining yearly payout limit is $20,000 – $4,320 = $15,680.
Frequently Asked Question
Golden Retriever Pet Insurance — Conclusion
In conclusion, investing in pet insurance for your Golden Retriever is a decision that can significantly impact both your financial stability and your pet’s health. As we’ve explored in this article, Golden Retrievers, like all breeds, are prone to certain health issues that can be costly to treat. Pet insurance offers a safety net against unexpected veterinary expenses, ensuring that your beloved companion can receive the best possible care without the burden of overwhelming medical bills.
Choosing the right insurance plan requires careful consideration of factors such as coverage options, deductibles, premiums, and exclusions. It’s crucial to conduct thorough research and compare different policies to find one that aligns with your needs and your Golden Retriever’s specific health requirements. Ultimately, the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re prepared for any health challenges your Golden Retriever may face is invaluable. Pet insurance is not just a financial tool; it’s a commitment to the well-being and longevity of your furry family member.
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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.
- Breiner, B. (2023). Average Cost of Pet Insurance: 2023 Quotes. ValuePenguin.
- Gillespie, L. (2023, February 23). Bankrate’s Annual Emergency Fund Report. Bankrate.
- Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. (2019). 2019 Cost of Pet Health Care Report.
- Golden Retriever – Hip Dysplasia (HD). (n.d.).
- The Golden Retriever Club of America – Elbow Dysplasia FAQs.
- Morris Animal Foundation. (n.d.). Golden Retriever Lifetime Study
- Ontiveros, E. S., & Stern, J. A. (2021). Genetics of canine subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS). Canine Medicine and Genetics, 8(1).
- Hypothyroidism. (n.d.). Golden Retriever Club of America. Retrieved January 25, 2024
- Average Cost Of Emergency Vet Visits | Find Out What You Will Pay. (2020, March 19). Emergency Vets USA.
- Cost of Owning a Dog: From Initial Cost to Annual Essentials. (n.d.). The Dog People.
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