REVEALED: The most expensive dog breeds to insure in 2024

Bullmastiffs, Great Danes, and Irish Setters are among the most expensive dog breeds to insure in the UK, according to new industry data.

New analysis from pet insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk reveals the breeds consistently flagged as high risk by insurers, leading to some of the priciest annual premiums for pet owners.

At the top of the list is the Bullmastiff, averaging £286 in annual insurance costs. Known for their loyalty and protective nature, Bullmastiffs tend to face health challenges including joint issues and heart problems, which makes them a high-risk breed for insurers.

Following close behind is the Great Dane, with average yearly premiums reaching £271. Generally considered the largest dog breed in terms of height, Great Danes are prone to specific health concerns such as hip dysplasia and bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus - GDV), both of which can lead to expensive veterinary bills.

Other breeds rounding out the list include the Irish Setter (£205) and the Rhodesian Ridgeback (£204).

Due to factors such as size and breed specific health issues, these dogs often require more frequent or costly veterinary care, resulting in premium rates well above the average for other breeds.

Insurers can also consider temperament and behavioural risks, as well as breed popularity and claim history. Breeds perceived as more likely to cause damage or be involved in incidents, such as certain working and guarding breeds, often come with higher insurance costs.

The age of the individual dog plays a role in premiums as well. Older dogs generally have higher premiums due to the increased likelihood of illness, regardless of breed. However, certain breeds age faster than others, which can impact premiums based on their breed profile.

Understanding these costs can help owners budget appropriately and select the right insurance coverage to help keep their pets healthy and financially protected.

Commenting on the data, Greg Wilson, CEO and pet insurance expert at Quotezone said: "Pets can get into all sorts of unexpected scrapes, so pet insurance is ideal to help give owners peace of mind when it comes to expensive vet bills which can escalate quickly.

"It's important for pet owners to research the breed they are rescuing or buying and ensure their pet insurance has them covered  – as our list shows, there's a selection of pups that are more at risk than others and some insurance policies won't cover some common hereditary conditions in specific breeds.

"Insurance is also important for managing costs as pets get older and need more regular care, with some policies even helping with end-of-life expenses, which can be a big relief during tough times.

"There are also accident only policies for injuries, time limited and maximum benefit options that cover conditions up to a set limit, and lifetime policies, which offer the most comprehensive coverage for ongoing issues – so it's vital to get the right protection."

 

If you have an expensive breed, here's how to help save:

Keep up-to-date

You can do this by staying up to date with your pet's routine check-ups and vaccinations.

 

Review the excess

By opting for a higher excess, you could lower your premiums, just be sure it is an amount you are comfortable paying when it comes to making a claim.

 

Try multi-pet

It's usually cheaper to insure all your pets under one multi-pet policy, even cats and dogs together, with coverage tailored to suit their individual needs.

 

Pay annually if possible

Paying for pet insurance annually usually works out cheaper than paying monthly by avoiding the additional interest charges.

 

Consider spaying or neutering

It can reduce health risks and behavioural problems and make your pet less risky to insure. Keep in mind though that the procedure itself is not typically covered by pet insurance.

 

Shop around

Always shop around for multiple quotes from different insurance providers - giving you a better chance at finding affordable cover that suits you and your pet.

 

The top 20 most expensive dog breeds to insure in 2024:

Dog breed	Average Annual Pet Insurance Premium (£)
Bullmastiff	286.20
Great Dane	271.20
Irish Setter	205.42
Rhodesian Ridgeback	204.25
Weimaraner	194.88
Boxer	174.26
Basset Hound	172.31
German Shepherd Dog Cross	170.77
Shetland Sheepdog	165.08
Hungarian Vizsla	161.40
Dorset Old Tyme Bulldog	159.72
Dogue de Bordeaux	157.08
Flat Coated Retriever	154.63
Collie (Rough)	153.98
Siberian Husky	153.12
Bearded Collie	151.63
Bernese Mountain Dog	150.26
Greyhound	150.26
Alaskan Malamute	149.16
Bernese Mountain Dog Cross	147.78

(Full Quotezone data available here)

 

Quotezone can help pet lovers compare and find savings on all sorts of pet related insurance such as pre-existing medical conditions.