How to Choose Insurance for your Dachshund
I can say from first hand experience that owning a dachshund brings joy, laughter, loyalty and unconditional love into your life - in a way I didn’t even first think would be possible. They quite literally will change your life. However, just like any other pet, dachshunds can face health issues or accidents. That's where pet insurance comes in. Due to the nature of certain health conditions that dachshunds can be prone to (we have written previously about IVDD in dachshunds, which is a really key one) it really is advisable to make sure you have a really good insurance policy in place, ideally one covering you for conditions such as IVDD and with suitable coverage, to give you that peace of mind should the worst happen.
In this guide, we'll explore the factors to consider when choosing insurance for your dachshund, ensuring that you provide the best possible care for your furry companion. Please note however, I’m not a financial adviser or insurance specialist, these are tips I’ve found useful when shopping around for a policy myself. Always consider consulting with a professional on any financial topics, if required. And use comparison sites if needed to assess the differences between policies to ensure you are getting the best deal. For these reasons, I won’t provide any recommendations here on the specific insurers I have used, but focus on the things to look out for when choosing a policy:
Assess Your Dachshund's Health Needs
Before selecting insurance, assess your dachshund's health needs. Dachshunds are susceptible to certain health conditions, including back problems and obesity. As mentioned above, IVDD in particular is a risk with the dachshund breed, with around 1 in 4 dachshunds having at least one episode in their lifetime. The breed specific risks are therefore an important factor when choosing insurance. Alongside this, it is important to consider their age and any pre-existing conditions. Insurance for dachshunds, as with any dogs, will get more expensive as they get older, so it is worth weighing this up. Some policies may not cover pre-existing conditions too, so it’s important to ensure you understand what is and what isn’t covered when shopping around for a new policy.
Comprehensive Coverage
When it comes to dachshunds, it's really important to opt for comprehensive coverage. Look for policies that cover accidents, illnesses, and preventative care, and if possible that covers hereditary and congenital conditions. Dachshunds, with their unique physique, are prone to spinal issues such as IVDD, so coverage for diagnostic tests, medications, and potential surgeries is essential. These surgeries, if needed, can be several thousands of pounds, so ideally looking for the maximum coverage here is key. The policy we chose covers us up to £15,000 in vet fees, with lifetime cover in place, meaning that if he was to have several recurrent IVDD issues over his lifetime for example, this would be covered. Additionally, consider policies that include dental care, as oral health is vital for your dachshund's overall well-being.
Annual Limits and Excesses
Understanding the financial aspects of pet insurance is key. Policies often come with annual limits, which cap the total amount the insurance company will pay in a year. As noted above, we looked for the maximum amount we could possibly get when we were choosing an insurance policy to cover our boy (£15,000) as if he were to experience an IVDD episode and require surgery, the fees can be in excess of £10,000. However it is also important to evaluate your budget and choose a plan that strikes the right balance between coverage and affordability. Additionally, consider the excess on the policy – the amount you pay before the insurance kicks in. Finding a balance between a reasonable excess and monthly premiums is essential. As our boy has got older, the policy has got more expensive, so this is important to bear in mind too. Our insurer offers an option where you can pay the first 20% of the claim to reduce the annual premium, so it is worth considering options like this too.
Age Restrictions and Waiting Periods
Many insurance policies have age restrictions and waiting periods. Some plans may not accept older dogs or may impose waiting periods (often around 14 days) before coverage begins. This is especially important if you are looking to switch insurance providers to get a better deal, as you may need to overlap your policies by a couple of weeks to avoid having a break in coverage. Be sure to read the fine print and choose a policy that aligns with your dachshund's age and health status.
Read Customer Reviews and Ratings
Researching customer reviews and ratings can also provide valuable insights into the experiences of other dachshund owners with specific insurance providers. Look for feedback on claim processing, customer service, and overall satisfaction. A reputable insurance company will have positive reviews and transparent policies. We also looked for advice in local dachshund groups on social media, as often you can hear first hand experience of how other people have got on with certain insurance companies, which can help with decision making.
