Best Pet Insurance For Pugs: Top Plans, Cost, Quotes & More
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This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Meri Halvari, DVM Candidate.
Pugs have long been a beloved companion in many households. However, their unique physical features, like their brachycephalic (flat-faced) nature, can also bring a set of health challenges that every Pug owner should be mindful of. The costs of veterinary care can quickly add up in the event of an emergency, making the decision to choose the best pet insurance for your Pug not just a financial decision, but a crucial aspect of your pet’s health care plan. This article discusses the main reasons Pugs need pet insurance, including Pug accident probability, the breed’s predisposition to health problems, and other key data you need to know to determine if your pet needs coverage. We also show you the best pet insurance policies for Pugs. Let’s get started!
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Best Pugs Pet Insurance — At A Glance
Best Overall
Best Personalized
Best No-Cap Payouts
Healthy Paws
Great for covering major
medical or ongoing expenses.
Beneficial for high-risk breeds.
What Is Pug 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 Pug pet insurance
$28 to $77
How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost For Pugs?
The insurance cost for a Pug 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 Pug is quoted at $55 per month, this rate is not fixed and could change.
According to our research, plans for Pugs can range from $28 to $77. You may spend more or less depending on where you live, the deductible rate and the reimbursement percentage you choose. Pug dog owners can expect to pay an average $50 monthly premium.
Pet Insurance Quotes For Pugs
We compared quotes from renowned pet insurance providers to estimate your expected average monthly premium for different life stages in Pugs.
| Company | Deductible | Reimbursement | Annual Reimbursement Limit | Monthly Price | Location | Gender | Breed | Age |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lemonade | $500 | 70% | $100,000 | $32.35 | SC, 29044 | Male | Pug | 6 years |
| Spot | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $71.48 | SC, 29044 | Male | Pug | 6 years |
| Healthy Paws | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $41.50 | SC, 29044 | Male | Pug | 6 years |
| Lemonade | $500 | 70% | $100,000 | $35.35 | CA, 95842 | Female | Pug | 2 year |
| Spot | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $75.16 | CA, 95842 | Female | Pug | 2 year |
| Healthy Paws | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $40.92 | CA, 95842 | Female | Pug | 2 year |
| Lemonade | $500 | 70% | $100,000 | $28.90 | TX, 75219 | Female | Pug | 6 months |
| Spot | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $77.33 | TX, 75219 | Female | Pug | 6 months |
| Healthy Paws | $500 | 70% | Unlimited | $49.70 | TX, 75219 | Female | Pug | 6 months |
Pug puppy monthly cost: $52
Adult Pug monthly cost: $50
Senior Pug monthly cost: $48
Is Pet Insurance For Pugs Worth it?
The decision to purchase pet insurance for your Pug hinges on various factors, including your pet’s health risk proclivity, tolerance for financial risk, and overall financial circumstances.
Consider a scenario where your Pug 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 Pugs, like Portosystemic Shunts, can cost between $2,000 and $6,000 to diagnose and treat. Can you pay for an unexpected $6,000 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 Pug 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 Pug’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 Pug’s potential future health issues and risks, you can take preventive action today and ensure that your Pug 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]
Pugs are 1.9 times
more likely to experience health issues compared to breeds.[4]
1,2%
of Pugs deaths are caused by Encephalitis.[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 increase costs throughout your Pug’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 Pugs
Cost to treat entropion
Entropion in Pugs 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 hip joint development, 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 patellar luxation
Patellar luxation in Pugs involves the dislocation of the kneecap from its normal position. This condition, often genetic, can cause lameness or an abnormal gait. Factors like trauma or congenital defects contribute to its development. Severity varies, potentially leading to arthritis or reduced mobility in affected dogs.
*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 arachnoid cysts
Arachnoid cysts in Pugs manifest as sac-like formations filled with cerebrospinal fluid, typically found near the brain or spinal cord. Their origin is often congenital, but they can also develop post-trauma. These cysts might lead to neurological symptoms such as seizures, coordination issues, or limb paralysis, yet some remain unnoticed and are only found during unrelated examinations.
*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 fold dermatitis
In Pugs, fold dermatitis occurs due to their distinctive facial structure, which creates skin folds where moisture and friction promote bacterial and yeast growth. This results in inflammation, infection, and irritation in these folds. Effective prevention includes consistent cleaning and vigilance to maintain skin health in these areas.
*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 Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease in Pugs is characterized by the deterioration of the femoral head in the hip joint. This occurs due to inadequate blood supply, leading to bone necrosis. Common in young, small breeds, it causes limping, joint stiffness, and pain, significantly impacting mobility and quality of life.
*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 obesity
Obesity is a significant concern in Pugs, primarily caused by overfeeding and lack of exercise. This excess weight puts strain on the dog’s body, leading to joint problems, diabetes, and reduced lifespan. Proper diet and regular exercise are crucial for prevention.
*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 necrotizing meningo-encephalitis
This neurological condition, more commonly seen in Pugs, involves inflammation and subsequent necrosis (death) of brain tissue. The cause is believed to be immune-mediated, meaning the dog’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own brain tissue. Symptoms can include seizures, blindness, and loss of coordination.
*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 stenotic nares
This refers to the congenital malformation of the nostrils in Pugs, causing them to be overly narrow. This structural issue impedes airflow, making it difficult for the dog to breathe, especially during exercise or in hot weather. It often requires surgical correction to improve the dog’s quality of life.
*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 keratoconjunctivitis sicca
Commonly known as ‘dry eye,’ this condition is characterized by insufficient tear production, leading to dry, irritated eyes. In Pugs, it’s often a result of immune-mediated damage to tear glands. If untreated, KCS can lead to painful eye infections and potential vision loss.
*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 hemivertebra
This is a congenital spinal condition where some vertebrae are misshapen, resembling a wedge or half-vertebra. In Pugs, this can lead to spinal deformities and even paralysis if the spinal cord is compressed. Symptoms vary depending on the severity and location of the affected vertebrae, ranging from no visible signs to severe neurological impairment.
*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 Pugs?
Benefits For Pugs
Benefits For Owners
How to Pick The Best Pug Pet Insurance
Best Pet Insurance For Pugs
1. Best Overall Pug Pet Insurance
Lemonade
Who It’s For: Excellent for Pug 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 Pugs 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 Pug at a $500 deductible and 70% coverage to estimate your monthly premium. Based on our research, you can expect to pay between $28 and $35 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 Pug Pet Insurance
Spot
Who It’s For: Spot Pet Insurance is ideal for Pug 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 Pug 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 Pug at a $500 deductible and 70% coverage, based on our research, you can expect to pay between $71 and $77, but prices may vary depending on your location, Pug’s age, and other factors. Spot covers you when your Pug gets hurt unexpectedly, from tooth extractions and torn ligaments to surgery and hospitalizations.
3. Best No-Cap Payout Pug 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 Pug.
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 Pug at a $500 deductible with 70% coverage. Depending on your location, pet’s age, and other factors, you can expect to pay between $40 and $50. 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 Pugs
There are two main types of pet insurance plans.
What Does Pet Insurance Not Cover?
When choosing pet insurance for your Pug, 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 Pug is adequately covered by the plan you select and help prevent surprises in the future.
Pet Insurance For Pug Puppies
Should you get pet insurance for your Pug puppy? Here are the top reasons you should consider Pug puppy insurance.
Average Cost of Pugs 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: 5 & 6
Factors That Impact the Cost of Your Pug 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 Pugs 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 Pug Pet Insurance Work?
Imagine your Pug’s pet insurance policy has the following terms:
Now, let’s say your Pug 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 $560 for this claim, the remaining yearly payout limit is $20,000 – $4,275 = $15,725.
Frequently Asked Question
Pug Pet Insurance — Conclusion
Pet insurance protects you from the unexpected. Pet owners often pay for their pet’s medical expenses out of pocket. However, most people cannot afford emergency vet bills. The right pet insurance can save your dog’s life. Insuring your Pug allows you to make medical decisions for your beloved pet based on its quality of life rather than finances. No matter how many pets you have, it’s the best way for your dog to access medical care whenever you need it without worrying about costs. If you decide to get pet insurance, be sure to read the policy carefully and understand the terms and conditions.
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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.
- O’Neill, D. G., Sahota, J., Brodbelt, D. C., Church, D. B., Packer, R. M. A., & Pegram, C. (2022). Health of Pug dogs in the UK: disorder predispositions and protections. Canine Medicine and Genetics, 9(1).
- Levine, J. M., Fosgate, G. T., Porter, B., Schatzberg, S. J., & Greer, K. (2008). Epidemiology of Necrotizing Meningoencephalitis in Pug Dogs. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 22(4), 961–968.
- 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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