How much does dog insurance cost in Massachusetts for the 15 most popular breeds?

The price for Massachusetts dog insurance is almost always the same throughout the state including in Boston, Worcester, Cambridge, Springfield, Lowell, or Brockton, etc. However, the prices will vary based on the age, health and breed of your puppy.

All prices shown below are based on a 90% reimbursement rate with a $500 deductible and a $5,000 annual benefit from Figo pet insurance. Please note: these prices should only be treated as a rough guide as of January 2023 and are subject to change. If you’re looking for the most up-to-date cost of dog insurance in Massachusetts we suggest getting a quote directly with Figo or Lemonade.

1. Mixed Breed – $32.13/ mo
2. Labrador Retriever – $43.75/ mo
3. Golden Retriever – $43.64/ mo
4. German Shepherd – $47.19/ mo
5. Goldendoodle – $37.97/ mo
6. Chihuahua – $19.98/ mo
7. Siberian Husky – $43.86/ mo
8. Yorkshire Terrier – $27.57/ mo
9. American Pit Bull Terrier – $48.56/ mo
10. Australian Shepherd – $30.19/ mo
11. Dachshund – $28.50/ mo
12. Shih Tzu – $25.37/ mo
13. French Bulldog – $60.06/ mo
14. Boxer – $60.31/ mo
15. Labradoodle – $37.97/ mo

Not finding your specific dog breed? Lemonade pet insurance is our #1 recommendation for Massachusetts and they’ll be able to give you a quick quote for your exact needs.

Massachusetts Dog Insurance FAQs

What is dog insurance, and how do I get it?

You can purchase insurance for your dog through one of many dog insurance companies. Since many dog insurance plans exclude pre-existing conditions, We suggest you consider purchasing pet insurance as soon as possible. Like health insurance for humans, you are responsible for a monthly payment once you sign up for a plan. In severe illness or an accident, many plans require you to pay for the care upfront and then submit a claim to be reimbursed for costs incurred afterward.

As a Massachusetts dog owner, why should I consider getting dog insurance?

Dogs require routine preventative care and medical treatments just like humans. Essentially, dog insurance helps dogs live longer by making expensive therapies more affordable. While some dog insurance plans only cover accidents and illness, over plans can help protect a wide array of services, including prescriptions, X-rays, another required testing, and surgeries. Dog insurance can also help cover end-of-life expenses, which can be pretty pricey. With dog insurance, you can ensure that your furry friend lives a longer and healthier life with you.

Is there an age requirement for my dog to qualify for insurance?

Typically, dogs qualify for insurance once they are 8 weeks old. As long as they are 8 weeks old or older, dogs may qualify for insurance at any time, regardless of their age. However, it is important to note that the cost to insure older dogs is much higher than puppies, which is why we recommended purchasing insurance as soon as possible.

What are the benefits to purchasing dog insurance in Massachusetts?

As previously explained, the costs involved with pet healthcare can be steep, especially if your dog becomes ill, requires unexpected surgery, or is in an accident. Since life is unpredictable, having insurance for your dog is a good idea to avoid potentially devastating financial costs. The good news is that Massachusetts offers many pet insurance companies and plans to meet you and your dog’s needs.

What does dog insurance cover?

Since every pet insurance company and plan is different, the services covered will also vary. The basic services usually covered by all dog insurance plans are accident and unexpected illness. Examples of covered conditions include broken bones, vehicle accidents, and frequent viral or bacterial infections. Some policies may cover more services, such as prescriptions and lab tests. In addition, some plans offer additional coverage, such as preventative care.

However, while most plans, long-term illnesses cover some illnesses, specifically those that existed before applying for insurance, are generally not covered. For example, if your dog is diagnosed with epilepsy before being insured, the company may not cover care.

How does Dog Insurance Reimbursement work?

Reimbursement amounts and deductibles vary by plan and provider. However, insurance companies will typically provide you with a specific reimbursement rate and reimburse you for incurred costs using the reimbursement percentage. One example is that a dog owner has a 90% reimbursement amount, a $250 deductible, and $20,000 annual max benefit. Then, their dog tears a ligament in his leg, requiring a $10,000 emergency vet surgery. What would happen is that the insurance company would reimburse them $9,000 minus the $250 deductible, which would make the out-of-pocket cost to be $1,250 instead of $10,000. While most companies work this way, some companies send money to vets directly to avoid members paying out of pocket.

What about deductibles? Is it better to have a higher or lower deductible?

Your deductible determines how much your monthly payment is. If you have a low deductible, you probably will have higher monthly payments. Everyone has different preferences for which is better for them, especially depending on their finances.

Do all dog breeds qualify for dog insurance?

It is common for insurance providers and plans not to cover certain conditions associated with certain breeds. We suggest you explore different plans that best meet you and your dog’s needs.

Are any breeds restricted from homeowners insurance in Massachusetts?

It is common for states to restrict certain breeds from homeowners insurance. These may include (but are not limited to):

• Akitas
• Chow Chows
• Doberman Pinschers
• German Shepherds
• Bull Mastiffs
• Pit Bull Terriers
• Rottweilers

Your best course of action is to connect with your home insurance provider to explore your plan more specifically.

5 Useful Strategies for Keeping Your Dog Safe & Healthy in Massachusetts

1. Avoid leaving your dog in the car in the summer

Massachusetts can get very hot in the summer months, especially in July and August. With temperatures reaching as high as 100 degrees, you must keep your dog out of the extreme heat. While it may be fun to have a companion ride in the car with you, make sure to take your dog with you wherever you are going or leave them home. Hot cars are not good places for dogs and can result in damaging health consequences.

2. Keep dogs safe during thunderstorms

Massachusetts also gets lots of thunderstorms in the summer. It is common for dogs to be fearful of thunderstorms, leading to unusual behavior and distress. Keeping your dogs in a safe place and providing them comfort during storms can help ease anxiety and fear.

3. Be careful of rawhide bones

While rawhide bones are familiar sources of pleasure and entertainment for dogs, they can be dangerous for your dog’s health. Vets have found that dogs may swallow large pieces, causing them to choke. In addition, vets have also seen fragments of bones lodged in the intestines. When getting a new bone for your dog, consider one made of a softer material.

4. Be mindful of their paws

Since Massachusetts can get very hot in the summer and bitterly cold in the winter, it is crucial to be mindful of the conditions that your dog is walking in outside. Concrete pavement can become very hot in the summer and can burn dogs’ paws. Conversely, ice and snow can become lodged in their paws, which can be painful.

5. Wild animals

Lots of dogs love chasing wildlife, especially squirrels and rabbits. However, coyotes live in Massachusetts neighborhoods. When walking your dog in the early morning or late evening, bring a flashlight and be aware of your surroundings. Also, keep an eye on your dog if they are outside alone.

5 Unique Dog Rescue Shelters in Massachusetts

There are so many dogs living in shelters that want to find them forever home. If you are interested in a new dog for your family, check out these shelters in Massachusetts:

1. Animal Rescue League of Boston in Boston, MA

The Animal Rescue League of Boston is one of the largest animal shelters in the state; it also provides numerous other services and adoption. This shelter gives animals loving homes and implements strategies to prevent animal cruelty, such as policy advocacy and police investigation.

2. Dakin Humane Society in Springfield, MA

Dakin Humane Society services over 20,000 animals every year in western Massachusetts. From services including adoption and veterinary care and programs including street rescue teams and dog grooming care, this shelter prides itself on its dedication to improving the lives of animals.

3. Worcester Animal Rescue League in Worcester, MA

The Worcester Animal Rescue League is a 96- dog- kennel and 41-cat-kennel shelter in Worcester. Dogs available for adoption are regularly updated on their website. In addition to providing protection and care to animals in need, this shelter also holds annual fundraising events to advocate for animal rights.

4. Lowell Humane Society in Lowell MA

Located in the Merrimack Valley, the Lowell Humane Society is a small but passionate shelter for animals of all kinds. Not only can you adopt your next furry friend from this shelter, but the shelter also offers humane education and guidance regarding your pet if needed.

5. Forever Paws Animal Shelter in Fall River, MA

This shelter offers adoption services and its TV show entitled “Straight from the Paws”, broadcasts on the local news channel.

Conclusion

While finding the best dog insurance in Massachusetts may seem overwhelming, many resources can help ease the process. For financial reasons, we recommend purchasing dog insurance as soon as possible if you have a puppy. We also advise you to be aware of potential restrictions regarding pre-existing conditions. The good news is that dogs of all ages can benefit from insurance to live as long and as healthy as possible.

We have found that for Massachusetts, Lemonade pet insurance is the best all-round plan at the lowest price.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology for Massachusetts

We ranked the best pet insurance policies in Massachusetts based on a variety of important factors including the following:

• Average monthly price for a 2-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible located in Massachusetts with a 02136 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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