Best Dog Insurance in Canada For 2025
- Injuries, illnesses, dental illnesses
- Veterinary fees
- Surgeries and emergency care
- Cancer treatment
- Advertising/rewards for lost or stolen pets
- Injuries, illnesses, dental illnesses
- Veterinary fees
- Surgeries and emergency care
- Cancer treatment
- Advertising/rewards for lost or stolen pets
Fetch Pet Insurance offers a single, comprehensive plan designed for pet owners seeking extensive yet flexible coverage. With annual coverage limits of $5,000, $10,000, or $15,000 - and the option to contact Fetch for higher limits starting at $5,000 - pet parents can customize plans to fit their needs. Reimbursement rates are adjustable at 70%, 80%, or 90%, and age-based deductibles range from $300 to $700, allowing for further personalization.
The plan covers accidents, illnesses, hereditary conditions, and advanced treatments, though it does not include an unlimited coverage option. A standout feature is Fetch’s inclusive dental coverage, which applies to all teeth and gum disease—an area many competitors overlook. The plan also covers alternative therapies such as acupuncture and behavioral treatments, along with sick-visit exam fees that are often excluded elsewhere.
Additional benefits include reimbursement for lost pet advertising, boarding fees during the owner's hospitalization, and an optional wellness add-on for routine care. Fetch also rewards healthy pets with a Healthy Pet Credit, reducing premiums by up to 30% after two consecutive claim-free years. However, direct vet payment is not available—claims must be paid upfront and reimbursed later.
Some limitations apply: the plan does not cover pre-existing conditions, prescription food, or claims submitted more than 90 days after treatment. A six-month waiting period applies to hip and knee conditions, though this can be waived with a prompt vet exam. Fetch is currently unavailable in New Brunswick and Quebec.
Ideal Profile: Best suited for pet owners who want robust coverage for accidents, illnesses, and dental care, with flexible deductible and reimbursement options. Especially recommended for younger pets, as enrolling early can help secure lower premiums and broader coverage eligibility.
- Comprehensive accident and illness coverage
- Extensive dental coverage (includes all teeth and gum disease)
- Covers alternative therapies (acupuncture, chiropractic care, behavioural therapy)
- Sick-visit exam fees included (saves $50–$250 per visit)
- No upper age limit for pet enrollment
- Top rate on Google
- Fast & easy reimbursements
- Use any vet in Canada
- Optional wellness add-on available
- No direct vet payment (must pay upfront and get reimbursed)
- Not available in New Brunswick or Quebec
- No per-incident or lifetime caps
- Injuries, Illnesses & Wellness Care
- Next-Day Accident Coverage
- Microchipped Pet Discount Available
- Up to 15% Multi-Pet Discount Available
- No per-incident or lifetime caps
- Injuries, Illnesses & Wellness Care
- Next-Day Accident Coverage
- Microchipped Pet Discount Available
- Up to 15% Multi-Pet Discount Available
Spot Pet Insurance offers flexible, affordable coverage with two main plans: Accident & Illness and Accident-Only. Annual coverage ranges from $5,000 to unlimited, with reimbursement rates of 70% to 90% and low deductibles starting at $100 (age-based). Unlike many competitors, Spot includes behavioural treatments and pet owner assistance in its standard plans. While dental illnesses aren’t covered by default, optional wellness add-ons can provide preventive and dental care.
Spot’s Accident & Illness plan covers vet exams, diagnostics, surgeries, hospital stays, hereditary issues, and alternative therapies. A standout feature is its next-day accident coverage—much faster than most providers. Spot also offers a 5% discount for microchipped pets, a 5% multi-pet discount for two pets, and 10% for three or more. However, it does not include a 24/7 vet helpline, which some competitors now offer.
However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Dental illness coverage requires an upgrade. Spot Pet Insurance is also not available in Quebec. Still, with its fast accident coverage, customizable plans, and multiple discounts, Spot is a great fit for pet owners seeking flexible, budget-conscious insurance.
Ideal Profile: Best for pet owners looking for customizable accident & illness coverage with flexible reimbursement options. Ideal for those who want quick accident coverage, lower deductibles, and discounts for multiple pets or microchipped pets. Especially recommended for younger pets, who are more prone to accidents and can benefit from fast coverage.
- Multiple annual coverage options, including unlimited coverage
- Covers alternative therapies and behavioural issues in standard plans
- Next-day accident coverage (shorter waiting periods than most providers)
- Lower deductibles ($100-$300) compared to some competitors
- Multi-pet discount (5% for two pets, 10% for three or more)
- 5% discount for microchipped pets
- Optional wellness add-ons for routine and preventive care
- Highly positive customer reviews for claim processing and affordability
- Age-based deductibles and reimbursement rates increase as pets age
- No 24/7 vet helpline
- Not available in Quebec
- No dental illness coverage in standard plans (requires add-on)
- Accidents and illnesses
- Exam fees and taxes
- Hereditary conditions
- Multi-pet discount
- Accidents and illnesses
- Exam fees and taxes
- Hereditary conditions
- Multi-pet discount
Pets Plus Us offers two main plans: Accident & Illness and Accident Only—making it one of the few Canadian insurers with an accident-only option. The Accident & Illness plan comes with annual coverage limits of $7,500 or $15,000 and customizable reimbursement rates (70%, 80%, or 90%), while the Accident Only plan offers a fixed $5,000 limit and 80% reimbursement. Deductibles are age-based, starting at $100 and increasing with the pet’s age.
Coverage includes hereditary conditions, diagnostics, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, behavioural therapy, and alternative treatments like acupuncture. Both plans include extra benefits like boarding fees, trip cancellation, and end-of-life expenses. Blue Ribbon Benefits add value with 24/7 vet access, poison control, and grief counselling.
Pets Plus Us stands out with its 4Life Guarantee, which ensures lifelong coverage as long as the policy stays active, and there are no breed exclusions. However, it doesn’t cover dental care, pre-existing conditions, or preventive treatments, and lacks an unlimited coverage option.
Ideal Profile: Best for pet owners looking for customizable coverage with strong accident and illness protection. The Accident & Illness plan is ideal for those wanting comprehensive care, while the Accident Only plan is a budget-friendly alternative perfect for younger and active pets. A great fit for those seeking lifetime coverage with no breed restrictions.
- Two customizable annual limits: $7,500 or $15,000
- Accident-only plan available for budget-conscious pet owners
- Reimbursement options of 70%, 80%, or 90% for Accident & Illness
- Covers hereditary and congenital conditions
- Alternative therapies and behavioral therapy included
- $1,000 in additional benefits per incident for trip cancellations, boarding, lost pet advertising, and end-of-life costs
- 4Life Guarantee ensures lifetime renewability
- No breed exclusions
- No unlimited coverage option
- Dental care and routine wellness treatments not covered
- Pre-existing conditions are excluded
- Deductible increases with pet’s age
- Care and intervention
- Diseases and accidents
- Advertising/reward for a lost or stolen pet
- Direct payment by veterinarians at participating veterinary hospitals
- Care and intervention
- Diseases and accidents
- Advertising/reward for a lost or stolen pet
- Direct payment by veterinarians at participating veterinary hospitals
Trupanion Canada offers a simple yet robust pet insurance plan with 90% reimbursement and no payout limits—making it one of the few providers with truly unlimited coverage. Instead of annual deductibles, it uses a per-condition lifetime deductible, so you only pay once per issue, no matter how long treatment continues. Coverage begins after a 5-day waiting period for accidents and 30 days for illnesses.
The core plan includes diagnostics, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, and hereditary conditions. Trupanion Pet Insurance’s standout feature is its Vet Direct Pay system, allowing the insurer to pay your vet directly at checkout (at participating clinics), avoiding out-of-pocket costs. Optional add-ons cover alternative therapies and lost pet support.
While Trupanion Canada offers excellent long-term value for pets with chronic conditions, it doesn’t cover exam fees or routine care. Premiums are generally higher, but the unlimited coverage and direct vet payment make it a strong option for owners seeking dependable, lifetime protection.
Ideal Profile: Best for pets with chronic or hereditary conditions, especially if you're worried about long-term treatment costs. A solid choice for owners who want predictable costs and peace of mind, particularly for breeds prone to specific health issues. Not ideal if you're looking for coverage on routine checkups or want to customize reimbursement levels.
- 90% reimbursement
- No annual or lifetime payout caps
- Lifetime per-condition deductible is ideal for chronic conditions
- Option to pay vets directly at checkout
- Covers congenital and hereditary conditions
- Fast claims processing
- No coverage for exam fees or wellness/routine care
- Higher premiums compared to other providers
- Limited customization
- Not ideal for owners seeking coverage for preventative care
- Illness and accidents
- Dental care included
- Behavioural therapy
- Exams fees
- Illness and accidents
- Dental care included
- Behavioural therapy
- Exams fees
PHI Direct offers a simple, affordable pet insurance plan with two annual coverage limit options: $5,000 or $10,000. It features 80% reimbursement and a low $200 annual deductible, making it an accessible choice for budget-conscious pet owners. What makes PHI Direct unique is its “New-Condition Coverage” model—any condition treated during the policy year is considered pre-existing the following year, which helps keep premiums low but limits long-term coverage for recurring or chronic conditions.
The plan covers a broad range of treatments, including accidents, illnesses, surgeries, hospitalization, prescriptions, diagnostics, and even alternative therapies like acupuncture and physiotherapy. Exam fees and taxes are also covered, and 24/7 telehealth access is included for added convenience. Pets can be enrolled from 7 weeks up to 14 years old, and a 5% multi-pet discount is available. However, PHI Direct doesn’t cover routine dental care, wellness services, bilateral conditions, or ongoing treatment for issues from a prior policy year.
PHI Direct is best suited for young, healthy pets whose owners want low-cost protection against new accidents and illnesses. Its streamlined, no-frills model offers solid short-term value, but it's not ideal for pets with ongoing medical needs or those prone to chronic conditions.
Ideal Profile: Best for young, healthy pets or pet owners looking for affordable accident and illness coverage without ongoing treatment needs. The low-cost premiums and straightforward policy make it a good option for budget-conscious pet parents. Not suitable for pets with chronic conditions, as prior-year treatments are excluded from future coverage.
- Two affordable annual coverage options: $5,000 or $10,000
- Low $200 deductible, making claims reimbursement quicker
- Exam fees, taxes, and alternative therapies included
- 24/7 Telehealth support for quick pet health consultations
- 5% multi-pet discount for households with multiple pets
- Keeps premiums lower over time with the New-Condition model
- New-Condition Coverage model means conditions covered one year are excluded the next
- No coverage for pre-existing conditions, wellness care, or preventive treatments
- Bilateral conditions (e.g., hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament issues) are not covered
- Not ideal for pets with chronic illnesses requiring long-term treatment
Do you have dog insurance yet? Well, it's about time you consider it. Our recent HelloSafe survey shows the average cost of owning a dog in Canada has jumped 23.3% in just three years, from $2,450 to $3,020 annually. With costs rising, having dog insurance is more important than ever.
In this guide, we explore the best dog insurance options in Canada, covering their offerings, pros, cons, and costs. Use our free tool to compare dog insurance quotes and find the perfect policy for your furry friend.
Dog Insurance Canada: Top Plans
- Fetch dog insurance: Policy with flexible customizations
- Trupanion dog Insurance: Policy with generous reimbursement
- Desjardins dog Insurance: Affordable policy with good coverage
- Pets Plus Us dog Insurance: Multiple plans and affiliate options
- Furkin Dog Insurance: Continuous coverage
- PHI Direct Dog Insurance: The cheapest monthly premiums
Fetch dog insurance: Policy with flexible customizations
Fetch is an esteemed pet insurance company that has been providing reliable protection for dogs since its establishment in 2007.
Affordability is a key aspect of Fetch Pet Insurance, offering various discount options to ensure manageable monthly premiums. Their coverage is designed to address unforeseen accidents and illnesses, prioritizing the well-being of dogs at all stages of life.
While unlimited coverage is not available, Fetch provides a substantial annual maximum of $15,000, offering protection for a wide range of pet-related issues.
When it comes to customization, Fetch offers flexibility with choices such as annual deductibles of $250, $300, and $500, annual coverage limits of $5,000, $10,000, and $15,000, and reimbursement rates of 70%, 80%, and 90%.
Fetch's notable features include extensive dental coverage, pet owner assistance, and valuable inclusions like lost pet advertising and boarding during medical emergencies. These features ensure that you have comprehensive support for your dog's well-being.
Fetch also goes the extra mile by offering discounts, including a 10% off for shelter rescues or adopted pets, as well as a 10% discount for active or retired service members.
Pros of Fetch Pet Insurance
- Comprehensive coverage for various conditions, treatments
- Flexible pricing options based on deductible, coverage, reimbursement
- Exclusive access to Fetch Forward technology for personalized advice
- Fast and easy claim process with prompt payment
- Extensive dental coverage
- No enrolment fee and a flexible cancellation policy
Cons of Fetch Pet Insurance
- Does not cover pre-existing conditions
- Lack of coverage for routine preventative care
- No multi-pet discount
- Not available in New Brunswick and Quebec
- No vet direct pay
What does Fetch cover?
Here's an overview of what's covered under this policy.
- Veterinary Exam Fees
- Emergency Vet Visits
- Specialist Vet Visits
- Comprehensive Dental
- Breed-specific Conditions
- Complete Sick Visit
- Injuries & Illnesses
- Virtual Vet Visits
- Diagnostic Tests
- Imaging & Ultrasound
- Holistic & Chiropractic care
- Behavioural Therapy
- Cancer Treatment
- Surgery & Rehabilitation
Now that you're aware of what is covered, it's important to understand what Fetch pet insurance doesn't cover.
Watch out!
Fetch, like other pet insurance companies, excludes coverage for pre-existing conditions. They also exclude expenses related to breeding, pregnancy, and whelping. Cruciate ligament issues or hip dysplasia during the first six months of the policy are not covered. Additionally, prescription diet foods, routine vet visits, elective procedures, and cosmetic surgeries are not included.
You can get a quick dog insurance quote from our partner Fetch in just a few seconds:
Trupanion Dog Insurance: Policy with generous reimbursement
Trupanion Pet Insurance has been a leading provider in the pet insurance industry since 1998, offering a standout option for dog owners seeking comprehensive coverage.
One of the key advantages of Trupanion is its unlimited coverage, ensuring that your dog's medical expenses are fully protected without per-incident, annual, or lifetime payout limits.
Trupanion Pet Insurance also offers a generous reimbursement rate of 90%, ensuring that a significant portion of your veterinary costs will be covered. Additionally, they allow you to customize your deductible, ranging from $0 to $1,000.
What makes Trupanion truly unique is its lifetime per-condition deductible. This means that you only have to pay the deductible once when your pet develops a new condition, rather than with each claim.
In addition to essential medical expenses, Trupanion provides comprehensive coverage for alternative medicine and therapies. This includes treatments like bone marrow transplants, herbal therapy, and stem cell therapy, letting you explore various options for your dog's well-being.
It's important to note that Trupanion's plans do not include wellness coverage, as their focus is primarily on essential medical expenses. Routine exam fees are considered part of standard administrative expenses and are therefore excluded from coverage.
Pros of Trupanion Pet Insurance
- 90% reimbursement
- Unlimited coverage without payout limits
- Customizable deductible from $0 to $1,000
- Per medical condition lifetime deductible
- Vet direct pay option
- 24/7 support from award-winning customer care team
Cons of Trupanion Pet Insurance
- Does not cover pre-existing conditions
- Relatively higher premiums
- Limited coverage options compared to some competitors
- Does not include wellness and preventative/routine care
- Does not cover exam fees
What does Trupanion cover?
Here's an overview of what's covered under this policy.
- Hereditary conditions
- Undiagnosed issues
- Congenital conditions
- Diagnostic tests
- Surgeries
- Hospital stays
- Medications
- Veterinary supplements
- Herbal therapy
- Prosthetic devices and carts
- Orthotics
- Breed-specific conditions
Now that you're aware of what is covered, it's important to understand what Trupanion pet insurance doesn't cover.
Watch out!
Trupanion pet insurance does not provide coverage for pre-existing conditions. In addition, it excludes exam fees, wellness care (including parasite control, spaying/neutering, and vaccinations), elective procedures (such as tail docking, ear cropping, declawing, and dewclaw removal), as well as costs related to cremation, burial, and post-mortem expenses.
Desjardins Dog Insurance: Affordable policy with good coverage
Since its launch in January 2013, the Desjardins Pet Insurance Program has been dedicated to providing comprehensive coverage specifically tailored for dogs.
Backed by Petline Insurance, a trusted provider with a 28-year history of insuring over 1.2 million pets, Desjardins Pet Insurance offers reliable protection for your canine companion.
Desjardins Insurance offers three distinct plans: Bronze Paw, Silver Paw, and Gold Paw. What sets the Silver Paw and Gold Paw plans apart is their extensive coverage for dental care and cleanings, prioritizing the overall health and well-being of dogs.
The average monthly price for Desjardins pet insurance for dogs ranges from $37 for the basic coverage, to $136 for more comprehensive coverage, based on the specific policy.
For those opting for the Bronze Paw plan, there is the option to add $500 coverage specifically for dental care. While the maximum coverage amounts may be slightly lower at $2,000 (Bronze Paw) and $4,000 (Silver Paw) compared to other plans (excluding the Gold Paw unlimited plan), Desjardins Pet Insurance still provides substantial protection for a range of dog-related expenses.
Policyholders with three or more dogs can take advantage of a 10% discount on their monthly premiums, making it more cost-effective to insure multiple furry friends and ensure their well-being without breaking the bank.
Pros of Desjardins Pet Insurance
- Desjardins has a comprehensive online portal
- They offer three plans to suit your pet's needs
- You can insure a pet at any age
Cons of Desjardins Pet Insurance
- There are no discounts available
- Behavioural, alternative therapies and medical device coverage are add-ons
What does Desjardins Pet insurance cover?
Here's an overview of what's covered under this policy.
- X-rays
- Hospitalization
- Veterinary diagnostics and treatment
- Prescription drugs
- Surgery
- MRIs
- Chemotherapy
- Preventive care coverage
- Dental care
- Behavioural therapy (add-on)
- Alternative therapy (add-on)
Now that you know what Desjardins Pet Insurance covers, let's see what it doesn't cover.
Watch out!
Desjardins Pet Insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions. Additionally, it does not provide coverage for flea control, pet food, including prescription diet and therapeutic nutrition if any. At the same time, it doesn't cover spaying or neutering, or euthanasia (unless it is due to a recommendation associated with an insured incident or illness).
PetsPlusUs Dog Insurance: Multiple plans and affiliate options
Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2023, PetsPlusUs pet insurance has established itself as a trusted and reputable company in the world of dog insurance. With a decade of positive impact on the lives of 100,000 beloved pets, PetsPlusUs has garnered a strong reputation for reliable coverage and exceptional service.
PetsPlusUs Pet Insurance sets itself apart from the competition by offering exclusive member discounts through partnerships with renowned names like Costco and CAA.
Costco Pet Insurance provides Executive Members with a generous 15% discount, while Gold Star and Business Members receive a valuable 10% discount, making comprehensive pet insurance even more accessible.
When it comes to coverage options, PetsPlusUs offers three comprehensive plans, accompanied by the flexibility of wellness benefits through the optional Flex Care policy add-on. In addition, they provide the convenience of direct payment to the veterinarian for expensive cases.
One notable advantage of PetsPlusUs is the absence of special waiting periods, ensuring that pets can receive coverage promptly without any unnecessary delays.
Their accident and illness plan offers coverage options of $7,500 or $15,000, providing ample protection for unexpected veterinary expenses. Additionally, their accident insurance plan provides coverage of $5,000.
Reimbursement options with PetsPlusUs are flexible as well. For the accident and illness plan, pet owners can choose reimbursement rates of 70%, 80%, or 90% of the veterinary bill, including taxes. For the accident insurance plan, the reimbursement rate is set at a competitive 80%.
PetsPlusUs takes pride in its 4Life Guarantee, ensuring continuous benefit renewal throughout a dog's lifetime. They offer coverage for all breeds and breed-associated health conditions, with the exception of pre-existing conditions.
Let's take a quick look at the pros and cons of PetPlusUs.
Pros of PetsPlusUs Pet Insurance
- Three annual policy limits and deductibles
- 24/7 PetHelpFone and Pet Poison Helpline
- Wide range of treatments and conditions covered
- Vet direct pay option available for expensive procedures
- Multi-pet discount
- Diverse affiliate program
Cons of PetsPlusUs Pet Insurance
- Does not cover pre-existing conditions
- No dental and wellness coverage
- Age-based deductible as your pet gets older
- Maximum coverage is $15,000.
What does PetsPlusUs cover?
Well, here's an overview of what's covered under this policy.
Accident-Only Plan
- Consultations
- Exams
- Emergency care
- Hospitalisation
- Drugs
- Surgery
- Anaesthesia
- Specialist referrals by a licensed veterinarian
- Pet boarding fees
- Holiday trip cancellation
- Lost pet advertising and reward
- Cremation/burial
Accident and Illness Plan
- Illness
- Injuries and accidents
- Hospitalisation
- Surgery
- Hereditary conditions
- Diagnostics
- Prescription medications
- Alternative therapies
- Behavioural therapies
- Pet boarding fees
- Holiday trip cancellation
- Lost pet advertising and reward
- Euthanasia and cremation/burial
Now that you know what the PetsPlusUs pet insurance covers, it's important to know what it doesn't.
Watch out!
PetsPlusUs' Accident & Illness Pet Insurance policy excludes dental care, reproductive health, experimental treatments, wellness/preventative care (unless Flex Care plan is added), pre-existing conditions (similar to other insurers), and conditions within waiting periods of 48 hours for accidents and 14 days for illnesses. The Accident Insurance policy does not cover illnesses, routine preventive care, pre-existing conditions, non-accident-related issues, or accidents within the initial 48-hour waiting period.
Furkin dog Insurance: Continuous coverage
Furkin Pet Insurance is a trusted and comprehensive choice for dog owners across Canada. With a team of experienced experts in pet health and insurance, Furkin is dedicated to nurturing the special bond between dogs and their families.
When it comes to coverage, Furkin stands out by offering unlimited 'per condition' benefits. This means that you can utilise your annual coverage for multiple illnesses or accidents throughout the year, providing peace of mind and comprehensive protection for your beloved dog.
Furkin provides the flexibility to choose the deductible that best suits you, giving you full control over your monthly premium.
With Furkin's Lifetime Coverage, there are no caps on eligible conditions. This means that regardless of the ongoing or recurring nature of your dog's health issues, you can enjoy continuous coverage year after year.
Automatic annual renewals further simplify the process, ensuring that your dog remains protected without any interruptions.
Furkin's policy offers a generous $20,000 annual maximum benefit, without any per incident or per illness limits. This means that your dog can receive the necessary care and treatment they need, without any financial constraints hindering their well-being.
They offer 24/7 access to a Telehealth hotline staffed by knowledgeable veterinary nurses, giving you professional guidance whenever you need it.
Additionally, you receive a complimentary subscription to Petriage, an invaluable online pet triaging software that can help you assess your dog's health and provide appropriate care.
Let's take a quick look at the pros and cons of Furkin.
Pros of Furkin Pet Insurance
- Upto $20,000 coverage every year
- No ‘per condition’ limits
- Flexible deductibles
- Coverage renews each year
- 24/7 Telehealth pet health hotline
- Multi-pet discount of 5%
Cons of Furkin Pet Insurance
- Does not cover pre-existing conditions
- Does not cover pets older than 14 years at enrollment
- Does not cover wellness or preventive care
- Not available in Quebec
What does Furkin cover?
Well, here's an overview of what's covered under this policy.
- Alternative Therapies
- Anaesthesia and Surgery
- Dental Injuries
- Diagnostics
- Emergency Care
- Exam Fees
- Prescription Medications
- Referral and Specialist Fees
- Hereditary and Congenital Conditions
- Hospitalisation
- Imaging - CT scans, MRI and X-Rays
- Medical Procedures
- Applicable Taxes
- Lost Pet Advertising and Reward
- Coverage While Travelling
- Boarding Fees
- Holiday Trip Cancellation
- Prescription Foods
- Euthanasia Costs
Now that you know what the Furkin pet insurance covers, it's important to know what it doesn't.
Watch out!
Furkin, like other pet insurance companies, has exclusions for pre-existing conditions and symptoms before enrollment or within waiting periods. It does not cover behavioural problems, cosmetic procedures, vaccinations, routine care, preventive dental treatment, and innovative therapies. At the same time, it also excludes pregnancy or whelping expenses, spaying or neutering, organ or tissue transplants, and corrective procedures for brachycephalic breeds.
PHI Direct Dog Insurance: The cheapest monthly premiums
A well-established insurance brand, PHI Direct specialises in providing affordable and reliable dog insurance coverage. PHI Direct brings over 20 years of expertise in pet health and insurance to dog owners.
PHI Direct Pet Insurance provides coverage of up to 80%. Their annual policy limits, available in options of $5,000 or $10,000, provide financial protection and flexibility to suit different budgets and requirements.
PHI Direct's coverage includes essential services such as taxes, examination fees, prescription medications, treatment for breed-specific conditions, alternative therapies, dental treatments for tooth fractures, parasite treatments, and more.
PHI Direct stands out by offering a low deductible of $200. They also provide a 5% multi-pet discount, making it more affordable for dog owners with multiple pets to protect their furry family members.
One of the remarkable features of PHI Direct is their unique 'New-Condition' Coverage. This coverage is specifically designed to address the initial high costs associated with diagnosing and treating a new illness or injury in dogs.
By covering the first 12 months of a new condition, PHI Direct helps dog owners better manage their budgets for ongoing care of chronic conditions or future treatments in subsequent policy years.
According to the 2021 North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA) Industry Data Report, PHI Direct's average premiums are significantly lower, with approximately 45.8% less for dog insurance and 37.7% less for cat insurance.
Let's take a quick look at the pros and cons of PHI Direct Pet Insurance.
Pros of PHI Direct Pet Insurance
- Cheapest monthly premium
- Vet direct pay available
- 24/7 access to Telehealth phone care
- Two affordable plans with one low deductible
- 5% multi-pet discount
Cons of PHI Direct Pet Insurance
- Does not cover pre-existing conditions
- Time-limited coverage: 1-year coverage
- Condition in first year becomes pre-existing condition in new year
- Not available in Quebec
Good to know
You can explore the best dog insurance Quebec options in our comprehensive guide.
What does PHI Direct cover?
Here's an overview of what's covered under this policy.
- Accidents
- Alternative Therapies
- Anaesthesia and Surgery
- Behavioural Therapy
- Coverage while Traveling
- Dental Tooth Fracture
- Diagnostics
- Emergency Care
- Exam Fees
- Hospitalisations
- Illnesses (New)
- Imaging - CT scans, MRI, and X-Rays
- Medical Devices
- Medical Procedures
- Prescription Medications
- Referral Specialist Fees
- Parasites
- Surgeries
Now that you know what the PHI Direct pet insurance covers, it's important to know what it doesn't.
Watch out!
PHI Direct does not offer coverage for pre-existing conditions. It's important to note that if a condition arises during a policy year, it will be considered a pre-existing condition in subsequent policy years. This includes any related or bilateral conditions under the "New-Condition Coverage" clause.
Other dog insurance options in Canada
- Peppermint dog insurance: Offers 4 plans that cover exam fees, hospitalization, surgery, diagnostics, medication, and specialist referrals. The rates are affordable and with lower deductibles.
- Costco dog insurance: Get up to 15% off if you're a Costco member. An affordable Accident-only plan is also available.
- CAA dog insurance: Get 13.5% premiums if you're a member. Non-members get a 9% discount
What is dog insurance?
Dog insurance is a type of health insurance for your dog, protecting their health and shielding your wallet from unexpected expenses. Dog health insurance is a form of pet insurance for your dog that covers unforeseen costs associated with your dog’s health. If your dog is injured or gets sick, veterinary costs can quickly spiral out of control. A simple procedure, like neutering, can cost between $500 and $800. Some more complex operations, like eye surgery, can run to five-figure sums.
Good to know
Home insurance will often insure you for property damage or injury caused by your dog to a third party, but to protect your dog's health, you will need a specific pet health insurance policy.
The annual average cost of owning a dog in Canada is around $3,700, and for a puppy, the price increases to over $4,600. For example, let's take diabetes. The cost of insulin can cost more than $100, depending on your dog’s size, and routine visits typically cost over $300 while dental treatments start at $500. Compare those numbers to the fact that most Canadians can only afford to spend up to $1,500 for veterinary treatment, and dog insurance in Canada becomes the only way to prepare yourself for the unexpected and have the power to act when it comes to the health of your dog.
How much for dog insurance?
Like most insurance, the cost of dog insurance in Canada varies. How much you pay and what is covered will depend on the policy you purchase. Price varies depending on what is covered, your reimbursement rate, the deductible and the annual payout limit. The age and breed of your dog will also affect the cost of health insurance for your dog.
Below, you can see how much dog insurance costs for Canada’s most common breed using Fetch pet insurance as an example:
| Age | Max annual payout | Max annual deductible | Reimbursement rate | Monthly premium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| <11 months | $5,000 | $700 | 70% | $50.73 |
| <11 months | $15,000 | $300 | 90% | $112.85 |
| 5 years | $5,000 | $700 | 70% | $80.17 |
| 5 years | $15,000 | $300 | 90% | $182.75 |
Most insurers provide coverage nationally, so the price of dog insurance in BC should be similar to that of dog insurance in Ontario. Although, differences can exist between rural, suburban and rural areas because pet ownership in them comes with different levels of risk.
Good to know
Cat insurance is, however, typically less expensive than insurance for dogs. It does pay to compare insurance providers, including Trupanion's pet insurance and others, to get the best coverage at the best price.
How much does it cost to neuter a dog?
Neutering is an important procedure that concerns all breeds. After all, you don't want to unexpectedly have a litter of puppies joining your family. The cost of the surgery depends on the size and gender of your dog:
| Gender | Weight | Cost to neuter/spay |
|---|---|---|
| Female | 0 - 20kg | $190 |
| Female | 20 - 40kg | $215 |
| Female | 40+ kg | $250 |
| Male | 0 - 20kg | $150 |
| Male | 20 - 40kg | $175 |
| Male | 40+ kg | $200 |
Eight tips for the cheapest dog insurance in Canada
With numerous dog insurance providers available, it's essential to navigate the landscape strategically to secure the most cost-effective coverage that meets your furry friend's needs. To help you out, we've compiled eight valuable tips to help you find the cheapest dog insurance in Canada.
- Opt for Accident-Only Coverage: Consider accident-only insurance plans as they often come at a lower cost compared to comprehensive coverage options.
- Customise Your Policy: Evaluate your dog's specific needs and tailor your policy accordingly. By customising the coverage, you can ensure you're only paying for the essential protection your dog requires.
- Adjust Deductibles and Reimbursement Rates: You can lower your premiums by selecting higher deductibles and lower reimbursement rates. This means you'll have higher out-of-pocket expenses when filing a claim, but it can significantly impact the overall cost of your pet insurance.
- Seek Discounts: Look for multi-pet discounts, which can range from 5% to 10% off your premiums when you insure multiple pets with the same provider.
- Bundle Insurance Policies: Consider bundling your pet insurance policy with other types of insurance, such as renters insurance, as this may qualify you for additional discounts.
- Explore Membership Clubs: Check if membership clubs like Costco offer exclusive savings on pet insurance rates. In some cases, you may find discounts of up to 15% off regular premiums.
- Enrol Early: It's advisable to enrol your dog at a young age to benefit from lower premiums. Insurance rates are typically more affordable for puppies and younger dogs compared to older dogs.
- Maintain Your Pet's Health: Some insurance providers offer diminishing deductibles as a reward for maintaining your pet's good health.
How does dog insurance work?
Dog insurance in Canada helps relieve the financial strain of unforeseen health costs on your wallet when your furry friend is ill or injured. An insurance policy is often the only way pet owners are empowered to do the right thing for their dog’s health and well-being.
Once you’ve chosen the best policy for you and your dog, the insurance provider will calculate a premium (based on several factors such as your dog's age and breed) that you will pay each month.
Watch out!
There will often be a waiting period after you purchase a policy before your coverage kicks in. Any medical treatment in this period will not be covered by the pet insurance provider.
Dog insurance's reimbursements
Usually, you will have to pay the veterinary costs out of your pocket first before being reimbursed by the provider. Rates of reimbursement are typically between 80% and 100% after you pay the deductible, a dollar amount you have to spend before the insurance kicks in.
For example, Desjardins' pet insurance offers 80% of expenses covered and a 10% discount if you insure 3 or more pets with them.
Getting the cash to pay upfront may seem daunting, but that way you are not limited to vets that partner with your insurer. Any licensed vet clinic or animal hospital will do.
Some providers also offer a 24-hour helpline that you can call for advice or for help finding a vet.
Expert advice
Insurance companies almost always ask you for all the paperwork associated with your claim, so remember to keep all your receipts and documentation from the vet.
When to buy dog insurance?
The best time to get insurance for your dog is when they are young, ideally still a puppy. Many dogs will have at least one medical emergency in their lifetime, which is the reason why veterinarians recommend getting coverage as soon as possible.
Most pet owners in Canada buy dog health insurance earlier than 6 months after getting their dog.
Each breed has its health risks, and each stage of a dog’s life comes with its own hazards. Pet insurers will rarely cover a pre-existing condition. That’s why it’s so important to start your coverage while your dog is young.
Also, the younger your dog is when they get insured, the cheaper your insurance policy gets. Peace of mind — that is what the best dog insurance gets you in the case of unexpected veterinary costs.
What does dog insurance cover?
Pet health insurance in Canada covers a variety of emergency and longer-term treatments for your dog. The availability of the treatments and the amount reimbursed will depend on your policy’s coverage. Let's look at accident and illness vs preventive care coverage.
Accident and illness coverage
If your dog suffers an accident or becomes unwell, most insurers will cover the costs of:
- X-rays
- Short stays for monitoring
- Emergency diagnosis
- Prescriptions
- Any surgery they may need
- MRI and other scans
- Chemotherapy
For example
Ralph is a 5-year-old Labrador Retriever. He lives with Julia, her owner, who got dog insurance in BC as soon as she moved to Vancouver. One day, Julia noticed that Ralph was eating less and seemed to have pain in his mouth. At the vet, Julia discovered her dog had gingivitis. Luckily, Julia’s pet insurance covers her in situations like these. The total vet bill came to $1,000. After paying the deductible ($300), Julia got reimbursed 90% of the remaining bill, meaning she ended up paying less than $350.
Preventative care coverage
Preventative medicine is always more effective (and cheaper in the long run) than reactive medicine. However, usually, only the best dog insurance in Canada will cover these kinds of treatments, including:
- Annual examinations
- Vaccines
- Flea treatments
- Urinalysis and fecal analysis
- Heartworm treatment
For example
Anne and Fernanda have just got a puppy from the animal shelter in Toronto. One day, while they have guests over, one of their visitors accidentally (and tragically) drops the pup. Fernanda rushes the little dog to the animal hospital, and thankfully, the puppy is alright. The bill comes to $1,600 as the furry little one has to stay in the hospital overnight, but their dog medical insurance helps relieve the weight on their wallet. Anne and Fernanda’s pet insurance covers their Ontario puppy, and they only have to pay $430.
What isn’t covered by dog insurance?
Dog insurance does not typically cover:
- Routine check-ups
- Any conditions the insurer deems to be pre-existing
- Wellness exam fees
- Vaccinations
- Spay/neuter
- Microchip
- Parasite prevention
- Routine lab work
- Dental cleaning
Although the cheapest dog insurance in Canada will not cover routine veterinary expenses, some insurance companies offer pet wellness plans that reimburse you for common, expected procedures such as vaccination and most routine tests.
Good to know
Did you know that oral infections are the most common diseases in all dogs? Tartar and gingivitis are particularly problematic.
What should I consider when choosing dog insurance?
In Canada, pet owners have several options when it comes to dog insurance to protect their furry friends and prevent a blow to their wallets.
Here are the main factors to consider when choosing the best dog insurance for you:
- Age: the younger the dog, the cheaper the premium and overall insurance will be. Also, an older dog is more likely to develop a health condition. Note that insurers never cover pre-existing conditions.
- Breed: some breeds are more expensive to insure than others. For example, dog insurance for Great Danes and English Bulldogs costs more than for Chihuahuas and Jack Russell Terriers.
- Gender: when it comes to insurance, male dogs are more expensive than female dogs. Also, spayed females have the lowest premiums.
- Deductible: the higher the deductible, the cheaper the premium. However, note that your insurance will only start to reimburse your vet costs after you reach the deductible sum out of your own pocket.
- Location: where you live with your dog will influence how much you pay. Certain cities carry more outdoor risks than others.
- Additional coverage: you can purchase additional coverage such as wellness plans or preventive medicine, though these will naturally increase the cost of your insurance policy.
Is pet insurance worth it for dogs?
You might be asking yourself: is dog insurance worth it? Pet insurance is worth having if you want to be able to look after your dog and keep them in the best health possible. Dog ownership is expensive! For an estimate, try our dog cost calculator.
Not having adequate protection can mean having to pay hefty, unexpected fees (that are difficult for any budget) or, in a worst-case scenario, not being able to pay for treatment for your dog at all.
Typical costs associated with healthcare for dogs
| Veterinary services for an adult dog | Cost |
|---|---|
| Routine visit | $120 |
| Vaccines | $150 |
| Parasite prevention | $200 |
| Dental x-rays | $245 |
| Teeth cleaning | $531 |
| Tests and screening | $250 |
As you can see the cost of routine visits and normal, preventative care is not negligible. If you imagine a situation, perhaps with an older dog, where routine care needs to be more frequent and health complications can arrive suddenly and cause other problems, you can see the need for comprehensive insurance.
At the same time, a younger dog, from a relatively healthy breed might only need accident insurance to cover them if they are injured. However, it is better to have insurance you don't use than not to have insurance and need it!
Expert advice
Remember to read your policy carefully so you’ll know exactly what is covered and what isn’t when you need to make a claim.
Now that you have a good idea about dog insurance, you could use our comparator below and get quick and tailor-made quotes for Canada's best pet insurance.
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