5 Best Minnesota (MN) Dog Insurance Plans Compared in 2023

Updated on by Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

Minnesota dog owners know that veterinary emergencies can strike at any time. To shield themselves against the high costs of urgent care, many seek the protection of dog insurance. Being a devoted dog parent and a nationally licensed insurance agent, I know that policy language can be challenging to understand, and the vast number of providers can make it an overwhelming decision. So my team and I have created this guide to the best Minnesota dog insurance plans to make the process easier for you. Whether you call Minneapolis, Moorhead, St. Paul, Duluth, Hibbing or points further afar home, this article has everything you need to know. We may receive compensation when you click on the affiliate links below.

Top MN Dog Insurance Scored, Ranked & With Cost

Use our below table to quickly compare the best dog insurance providers in Minnesota. The average monthly Minnesota-specific prices shown are based on a healthy 2-year-old Labrador Retriever with a $500 deductible and 90% reimbursement amount who is located in Minnesota with a 55414 zip code. Costs may vary based on age, location, coverage amount, and depending on the breed of your puppy. Prices are accurate as of May 2023 and are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the provider website.

4.7
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Minnesota pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MINNESOTA

$32.38/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with Minnesota 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
4.7
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Minnesota pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MINNESOTA

$34.72/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
4.7
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Minnesota pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MINNESOTA

$36.00/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$20,000

  • They offer up to 100% reimbursement with a $20,000 annual maximum benefit for a reasonable fee and have fast reimbursement options
  • Wagmo Wellness plans reimburse you for the routine and preventative care you do for your pets annually
  • Founded in 2017 and underwritten by National Specialty Insurance Company
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 IN MINNESOTA

$67.36/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
BENEFIT

$10,000

  • Pumpkin Pet Insurance plans have extensive coverage and they always have a 90% reimbursement rate
  • They 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
4.2
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Minnesota pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MINNESOTA

$80.21/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

figo
4.7
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Minnesota pet parents. Learn more at the end of this page.

STANDARD PLAN
COST IN MINNESOTA

$32.38/mo

REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNT

90%

ANNUAL
 BENEFIT

$5,000

  • Figo offers users an amazing complimentary service to connect with Minnesota 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

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

The price for Minnesota dog insurance varies depending on where you live. To give you an idea we’ve collected costs for three cities shown below. The prices will also 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 Minnesota we suggest getting a quote directly with Figo or Embrace.

  1. Mixed Breed
    • Minneapolis – $23.78/ mo
    • Edina – $23.78/ mo
    • Brainerd – $20.66/ mo
  2. Labrador Retriever
    • Minneapolis – $32.38/ mo
    • Edina – $32.38/ mo
    • Brainerd – $28.12/ mo
  3. Golden Retriever
    • Minneapolis – $32.32/ mo
    • Edina – $32.32/ mo
    • Brainerd – $28.07/ mo
  4. German Shepherd
    • Minneapolis – $34.94/ mo
    • Edina – $34.94/ mo
    • Brainerd – $30.36/ mo
  5. Goldendoodle
    • Minneapolis – $28.11/ mo
    • Edina – $28.11/ mo
    • Brainerd – $24.42/ mo
  6. Chihuahua
    • Minneapolis – $14.79/ mo
    • Edina – $14.79/ mo
    • Brainerd – $12.85/ mo
  7. Siberian Husky
    • Minneapolis – $32.48/ mo
    • Edina – $32.48/ mo
    • Brainerd – $28.21/ mo
  8. Yorkshire Terrier
    • Minneapolis – $20.41/ mo
    • Edina – $20.41/ mo
    • Brainerd – $17.73/ mo
  9. American Pit Bull Terrier
    • Minneapolis – $35.96/ mo
    • Edina – $35.96/ mo
    • Brainerd – $31.23/ mo
  10. Australian Shepherd
    • Minneapolis – $22.36/ mo
    • Edina – $22.36/ mo
    • Brainerd – $19.42/ mo
  11. Dachshund
    • Minneapolis – $21.09/ mo
    • Edina – $21.09/ mo
    • Brainerd – $18.33/ mo
  12. Shih Tzu
    • Minneapolis – $18.79/ mo
    • Edina – $18.79/ mo
    • Brainerd – $16.32/ mo
  13. French Bulldog
    • Minneapolis – $44.46/ mo
    • Edina – $44.46/ mo
    • Brainerd – $38.62/ mo
  14. Boxer
    • Minneapolis – $44.65/ mo
    • Edina – $44.65/ mo
    • Brainerd – $38.78/ mo
  15. Labradoodle
    • Minneapolis – $28.11/ mo
    • Edina – $28.11/ mo
    • Brainerd – $24.42/ mo

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

FAQ’s For Dog Insurance In Minnesota

About pet insurance and why it is necessary for the state of Minnesota?

When looking to provide your pup with optimal health, signing on with an insurance company is an important step. Each company has a monthly fee in place that keeps your insurance policy up and running. The process usually involves the signee paying for the initial bill on their own. Then, pet owners follow up by submitting a claim to their insurance company. A recommendation you might hear is to get insurance for your pet when they are very young. Insurance agencies tend to be against providing coverage for pre-existing conditions. The exact age of recommendation for coverage sits at around eight weeks of age.

In Minnesota, pet insurances tend to come in handy due to the high cost of care for various treatments like cancer. An issue amongst dog owners who are without insurance is the greater need for euthanization. Out-of-pocket costs can be strikingly high, especially for those lacking coverage. This is why an insurance plan is a key step for anyone with pets.

At what age should you select insurance for your puppy?

For many pet insurance companies, an age of 8 weeks is recommended for your pet to be eligible for insurance coverage. This age point does not go for all insurance providers, though, as many are willing to ensure dogs of any age. The recommendation has a lot to do with cost efficiency, as it tends to be less costly to insure a younger pet.

Is dog insurance worth the hassle in minnesota?

Veterinary bills are simply a given for any pet owner, and these trips can become quite costly over time. The average dog owner has made at least one necessary trip resulting in costs of 3k or more. In life, accidents happen, and an emergency trip might rear its head at an unforeseen time. It is worth debating whether the risk of high out-of-pocket costs is more financially feasible for you than monthly insurance costs. The flat rates of veterinarians in Minnesota might make an insurance plan a more reasonable option.

What does the insurance cover?

You can expect an insurance plan will cover most issues unless they write it as an exclusion. The general rule of thumb is that all immediate and unforeseen illnesses will fall under the umbrella of coverage. Injuries to bones, sudden infections, lodged objects, and seasonal diseases are likely to be included, among other problems. Conditions that were present before the start of an insurance plan are typically the responsibility of the owner. Additional packages can be made available for other basics such as general health checks and vaccinations.

What is the process for reimbursement?

Reimbursements are simple and very helpful. Imagine your insurance states the inclusion of a 90% rate for reimbursement of your costs. Additionally, imagine your deductible sits at $250, and your yearly maximum at about $20,000. If you incur costs of $10,000 from veterinary trips, you will receive $9,000 back, save for your $250 deductible. In this instance, you are not out $10,000. Instead, your out-of-pocket costs would be $1,250, which is minuscule in comparison to 10k in out-of-pocket expenses.

Are there any benefits to a lower deductible?

Typically, choosing a plan with a smaller deductible will result in a more expensive month-to-month cost. Your monthly bill will be more compared to others, but your out-of-pocket costs when you file a claim will be smaller. It all comes down to what works for you and your financial situation. Insurance companies often have a calculator so you can easily compare costs while searching for the right fit for you. The average deductible pet owners choose is $250 and $500.

Does MN dog insurance cover all breeds, or are there limitations?

The majority of states have some sort of limitations in regards to insurable dog breeds. Some examples of dog breeds that may be difficult to insure include the following:

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

One step in making sure you select the right insurance includes choosing coverage that will accept your pet breed. You may need to ask about needs for liability riders, as well as inquiring about any additional exclusions.

5 ways you can maintain your dogs wellbeing and safety in the state of Minnesota

1. Brutal Minnesota Winters

Dogs are notoriously curious and adventurous creatures. Ensuring they have access to the home and the outdoors during the cold season is a must. Keeping an eye on your pup when they are outside will ensure they can come back inside when the temperatures become too frigid. In Minnesota, Dogs getting left outside too long can be dangerous to their health.

2. Consistent Access To Clean Water During The Summer Months

While the winter season in Minnesota can become extreme, the same is true for the states’ summer season. Temperatures can reach upwards of 100 degrees and generally sit around 80-90 degrees. So, how does this affect your family pet? Scolding temperatures and high humidity create a potentially dangerous environment. Ensuring your dog remains cooled off and has access to enough water will help you keep them healthy. In such heat, dehydration can come on fast. To avoid a vet trip for your sick pup, always provide cool, clean water and a temperature-controlled space for relaxing.

3. Hot Cars Are Danger Zones

Remembering to accommodate your pet wherever you take them is essential to their health. It is best not to take your dog anywhere you will be indoors for long periods, as dogs are prone to getting heat sick, as is any being. Keep their comfort and safety in mind when traveling to avoid a potential health emergency.

4. Be Wary Of Letting Your Dog Roam Free

Roaming dogs are always in danger of run-ins with other dogs. While your pet might be capable of venturing off on its own, a more dangerous animal may be on the loose. Dog fights are pretty preventable when you know where your dog is at all times.

Stroll with caution when near forests and national parks, as these are areas that are home to animals such as coyotes and American black bears. Both of these predatory mammals pose a threat to your dog’s safety.

5. Keep Your At-Home Trash Can Secure

While lots of human foods are safe for dogs, the opposite is true for others. It is impossible to know every food that could be toxic to your dog, so securing your trash in a pet-inaccessible place is just one more measure you can take to preserve your dog’s health.

5 Great Shelters For Dogs In Minnesota

If you are thinking about adding a new pet to your family, consider adopting instead of buying. By adopting, you will be given the gift of a fantastic new family member and will be giving a dog a forever home. Here are some shelters where you might find the pet for you.

1. Animal Humane Society in Becker County, MN

The Animal Humane Society has taken in tens of thousands of pets over time. They have placed the majority of those pets in their forever homes.


2. Animal Ark Shelter in Hastings, MN

The Animal Ark Shelter is a no-kill shelter and extends its intakes beyond just canines. They accept dogs and cats, as well as bunnies. This is a noteworthy difference from many pet shelters in Minnesota.


3. Second Chance Animal Rescue in White Bear Lake, MN

Second Chance Animal Rescue is a fantastic resource for anyone needing advice regarding a missing pet. They are knowledgeable about local pet impounds, as well as how far lost pets typically wander.


4. Underdog Rescue in Minneapolis, MN

With many amenities and a thorough adoption process, the Underdog Rescue center focuses solely on the care and rehoming of the pets they have in their possession.


5. Secondhand Hounds in Minnetonka, MN

Dedication is one word that describes Secondhand Hounds Well. The employees work to maintain professionalism and community connection, hosting events all over the area to help unite pets with their families.


Conclusion

The best time to insure your pet is after they are 8 weeks old, however, dog insurance can provide a benefit at any point in the life of your beloved companion. Our top suggestion is Lemonade. While all the policies we compare have pros and cons, overall Figo pet insurance beats the competitors with a combination of price, coverage, and user experience.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology for Minnesota

We ranked the best pet insurance policies in Minnesota 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 Minnesota with a 55414 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

Other state dog insurance resources

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