7 Best Irish Water Spaniel Pet Insurance Plans Compared in 2024

Updated on February 23, 2024 by Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

Often mistaken for a large poodle, the Irish Water Spaniel is anything but… As the name implies, your Irish Water Spaniel is from Ireland, and yes, with her webbed feet and water-repellent coat, she loves to swim. With a lifespan of 10-12 years, you’ve done well in choosing the newest member of your family as your IWS is generally a healthy dog, but there are a few things that she can’t quite out-swim. A few issues that may float her way include otitis externa, inflammation of the ear, canine hip dysplasia (CHD) or distichiasis, and malformed eyelashes that can irritate the eyes and lead to corneal ulcers. It’s also important to note that your Irish Water Spaniel is prone to having adverse reactions to sulfa antibiotics and deworming medication. You’ll likely do anything to make sure your IWS is healthy. One easy step you can take right now is purchasing pet insurance. A dog insurance policy is a simple way to help care for expensive vet bills that can quickly add up. As a licensed insurance agent and all-around dog person, I am here to help you with all the dog insurance options available to you and your Irish Water Spaniel. We may receive compensation when you click on the affiliate links below.

Top Irish Water Spaniel Pet Insurance Scored, Ranked & With Cost

Use our below table to quickly compare the best Irish Water Spaniel pet insurance providers. The average monthly specific prices shown are based on a healthy 2-year-old Irish Water Spaniel with a $500 deductible and 90% reimbursement amount who is located in California with a 90210 zip code. Costs may vary based on age, location, and the coverage amount. Prices are accurate as of February 2024 and are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the provider website.

odie insurance
4.9
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST FOR IRISH WATER SPANIEL

$48.25/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$10,000

  • Odie has several options available to suit any pet parent’s budget including: complete coverage, injury & illness, and accident only plans
  • They also offer a free 24/7 video chat with vets
  • Founded in 2019 and underwritten by Trisura Insurance Company
lemonade
4.7
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST FOR IRISH WATER SPANIEL

$63.42/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • Lemonade has the best all-around Irish Water Spaniel Pet insurance policy at the most affordable rates
  • Their user experience is world-class and it’s easy to get support from their award-winning customer service team
  • Founded in 2015 as a certified B Corp, Lemonade donates unclaimed premium dollars to nonprofit organizations selected by policyholders
pumpkin logo
4.5
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST FOR IRISH WATER SPANIEL

$79.92/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$10,000

  • Pumpkin Pet Insurance plans have extensive coverage and they always have a 90% reimbursement rate
  • Pumpkin Pet Insurance plans have no breed or upper age restrictions, and dental illness and hereditary conditions are covered at no extra cost
  • Founded in 2020 and underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company
embrace
4.5
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST FOR IRISH WATER SPANIEL

$84.28/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Their “Healthy Pet Deductible” allows your annual deductible to go down by $50 each year that you don’t receive an insurance claim reimbursement
  • Embrace paid 93% of claims in 2019 and their member portal is user-friendly
  • Founded in 2003 and underwritten by American Modern Insurance
fetch insurance
4.4
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST FOR IRISH WATER SPANIEL

$101.37/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Fetch makes it easy to use any licensed vet in the U.S. or Canada
  • Once your claim is approved, you’ll be paid back up to 90% of your unexpected vet bill in as little as 2 days via direct deposit
  • Protecting 400K+ dogs and cats (and counting) & rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot
4.4
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST FOR IRISH WATER SPANIEL

$106.35/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with Irish Water Spaniel Pet vets via video chat 24/7
  • They also have an easy-to-use pet records app and real-time claims tracker
  • Founded in 2013 and underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company
trupanion
4.2
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST FOR IRISH WATER SPANIEL

$231.24/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

Unlimited

  • Trupanion is the only provider on our list that has an unlimited annual benefit with no payout limits
  • They are unique in that they offer “Vet Direct Pay” instead of reimbursements
  • Founded in 1999 and underwritten by American Pet Insurance Company

odie insurance
4.9
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST FOR IRISH WATER SPANIEL

$48.25/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$10,000

  • Odie has several options available to suit any pet parent’s budget including: complete coverage, injury & illness, and accident only plans
  • They also offer a free 24/7 video chat with vets
  • Founded in 2019 and underwritten by Trisura Insurance Company

Irish Water Spaniel Pet Insurance FAQs

What is dog insurance and why is it useful for Irish Water Spaniels?

Dog insurance is much like human health insurance in that it helps cover expensive medical bills. Pet insurance may not cover the entire cost of your dog’s medical bill, but it will save you money when it comes to the total cost. Purchasing and utilizing dog insurance is simple, you’ll need to select a plan, make the monthly payments to keep the policy active, and that’s it. When needed, you’ll submit receipts for reimbursement from your insurance provider.

Pet insurance gives you that extra layer of protection to prepare you for the unexpected when it comes to caring for your pooch. Luckily the Irish Water Spaniel is known as a healthy breed, but you really never know where your dog’s health can take a turn. Potential health issues that can pop up include otitis externa, inflammation of the ear, canine hip dysplasia (CHD) or distichiasis, malformed eyelashes that can irritate the eyes and potentially lead to corneal ulcers. Facing even one of these problems will mean multiple trips to the veterinarian, with an expensive medical bill to follow shortly thereafter. Purchasing a pet insurance policy means your Irish Water Spaniel will receive any necessary treatment without drowning your bank account (yes, water pun intended).

How old does my Irish Water Spaniel need to be insured?

Pet insurance providers will want puppies to be at least eight weeks old in order to begin insurance coverage, but you should really look into enrolling your IWS in a dog insurance policy the moment you bring her home for the first time. Most, if not all, pet insurance policies use the age of the pet to determine the premium, so the younger you can enroll your puppy in a plan, the better.

What are common insurance claims for Irish Water Spaniels?

Since your Irish Water Spaniel is usually a healthy breed, there’s not a lot to worry about when it comes to hereditary issues, but there are still some things that can pop up and make life more challenging. Claims for your IWS may include otitis externa, which is an inflammation of the ear, canine hip dysplasia (CHD) or distichiasis, malformed eyelashes that can irritate the eyes and lead to corneal ulcers. Your Irish Water Spaniel is also a very active, energetic dog, so physical issues may also be a problem with potential broken bones or even a pulled muscle. Hopefully you don’t find yourself in a vet’s office with any one of these diagnoses, but if you do, this is where pet insurance can help save the day and your bank account.

What services for my Irish Water Spaniel are covered by dog insurance? What services are excluded from coverage?

Your policy for your Irish Water Spaniel will likely cover surprise injuries or accidents. It also typically includes surgery, medication, medical tests, emergency care and exam fees. Some dog insurance plans will cover hospitalizations and preventative care as well. Almost any issue your IWS may face in her lifetime, including infections, broken bones, and strained muscles.

Be prepared as there are services that may also be excluded in your policy. Most dog insurance plans will not cover the cost of care for pre-existing conditions, which is why it’s so important to enroll your Irish Water spaniel in a policy as soon as possible.

How does reimbursement work?

You are responsible for paying your Irish Water Spaniel’s medical bill upfront and then submitting the vet bill for reimbursement to the insurance provider. Your IWS insurance provider will then pay you back a certain percentage of that bill. Based on your deductible and reimbursement rate, your insurance company will determine how much money you’ll receive back.

Should I enroll in a high deductible or low deductible plan?

There’s no right or wrong answer here. How you want to manage your finances for your Irish Water Spaniel is up to you. In general, the higher the deductible you pay means the lower your monthly payment will be, but in turn, that also means you’ll pay a higher cost of that deductible payment during those unexpected emergencies. If you’d prefer to not have a large bill in the form of a deductible during an emergency, then choosing a lower deductible plan may be the right course for you. As a result, you’ll have a higher monthly payment, but less of a financial surprise during a stressful medical emergency.

5 Tips for Keeping Irish Water Spaniel Safe & Healthy

You’ve made a significant investment in your Irish Water Spaniel. By now you know she’s playful and independent and you’ve probably already learned there’s a reason so many descriptions of the IWS say she’s a clown at heart. Pet insurance will help her stay a member of your family for as long as possible. Here’s a few extra tips to make sure that your Irish Water Spaniel keeps us clowning around with her well into her lifetime.

1. Activity

Your Irish Water Spaniel is, no surprise here, a sporting dog. She was bred to be a hunter, retrieving ducks from the water. She’s a medium dog who is active and full of high energy, so lots of exercise, at least one hour a day, is key to keeping her from getting bored and out of trouble. Long walks or hikes and some running alongside a bike will do the trick. The tried and true, chase the ball in the yard also works. Of course, it says right in the name, she’s a water dog. With her webbed feet and two-layered, water-repellent coat, she loves to swim too. Your IWS is also friendly with other dogs, so playing at the dog park with lots of dog friends will keep her active physically and mentally (plus, who doesn’t love spending time playing with lots of friends. All those viral videos of dogs jumping in a pool together, you can bet there’s an Irish Water Spaniel in there having a blast.). Your IWS will be happiest if she has a job that keeps her body busy and her mind occupied.

2. Training

Your Irish Water Spaniel is very eager-to-please and loves to work with people. She’s a great family dog who loves kids. It’s important to get the whole family involved in her training. Keeping training sessions short and, most importantly, fun and interesting, will keep her (and the kids too for that matter) from getting bored. Your IWS will respond best to positive, reward-based training methods. She can tend to be reserved with strangers, even sometimes timid, so early socialization will go a long way in her overall training success.

3. Nutritious Diet

Like most dogs, your Irish Water Spaniel will thrive with high-quality dog food, whether that’s commercially purchased or homemade is up to you. Whatever diet you choose, be sure you’re feeding your pup appropriately based on her age… puppy food for the little one, senior food for your older friend, you get the idea. Treats are important for training, but don’t go overboard. Always work with your vet on what is the ideal weight for your IWS. Clean, fresh water should also be available at all times.

4. Love and Affection

Your Irish Water Spaniel will love being part of your family. If you have small kids, teaching them how to respect your pets is important. As long as kids understand the boundaries, then everyone will be able to live in harmony. Your IWS will also be a good guard dog, assuming you make that part of your training. They want to be with you but also want to protect you. The IWS is not usually aggressive, but she can have a deep, protective sounding bark.

5. Regular Grooming

You’ll want to begin grooming your Irish Water Spaniel when she’s still a puppy, to really help her get used to the process and reinforce that grooming is a positive experience. Gentle brushing and nail and ear cleaning should be part of the overall grooming routine. Your IWS is hypoallergenic, so that special coat will need a good trim, to neaten it up and reshape, at least every two months. You know your IWS likes to swim, but it turns out that coat also needs water exposure as it helps promote the “ringlets” that make up her beautiful coat. Brushing her teeth a few times a week will help prevent dental disease too.

Conclusion

Your Irish Water Spaniel is known to be a bit of a clown, but she’s also going to become a loving member of your family, that is when she’s not in the pool. Pet insurance is one of the many tools you can use to help keep her around for as long as possible. There’s lots of insurance options available and the enrollment processes can be confusing, so I’m here to help. Once you’ve selected a policy for your Irish Water Spaniel, you then pay the monthly premium, and as easy as that, your IWS is covered. There’s many reasons that your Irish Water Spaniel may need veterinary care. Having coverage will provide your pup with the necessary treatment and lessen the stress of dealing with a huge vet bill.

After extensive research, we conclude that Odie pet insurance offers the best dog insurance policy at the lowest monthly price for the Irish Water Spaniel.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology for Irish Water Spaniels

We ranked the best pet insurance policies for Irish Water Spaniels based on a variety of important factors including the following:

  • Average monthly price for a 2-year-old Irish Water Spaniel with a $500 deductible located in the 90210 zip code
  • Coverage and benefits
  • Key policy details including accidents and illnesses, surgeries, annual check-ups, cancer treatment, lab tests, and more
  • AM Best rating of the underwriter
  • Reimbursement percentage
  • Annual benefit amount
  • Technology and user experience
  • Ease of sign up
  • Policy language clarity
  • User reviews

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