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The Chihuahua is among the smallest dog breeds but packs a huge, feisty personality. These little snuggle bugs make loyal companions; however their tiny bodies put them at a higher risk for injuries. And, like all purebreds, Chihuahuas are predisposed to several inherited health issues, such as heart, liver and eye disorders, dental disease, patella luxation, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), and more.
As an expert in pet insurance for over a decade, I focus on assisting pet owners like you in selecting the ideal insurance for your beloved furry friend. I offer advice on possible health concerns for Chihuahuas and the costs that come with them. Pet insurance isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, so I’ll help you find the best provider that suits your dog’s unique requirements.
Best Pet Insurance For Chihuahuas
Chihuahuas, like all purebred dogs, have specific requirements for pet insurance. I have researched extensively to find the most suitable pet insurance options that meet the needs of your pup’s breed. When choosing these insurers, I carefully considered coverage and benefit options, breed-specific health concerns, the dog’s age, premium costs, and other crucial details for making an informed decision.
| Best For | Company | Get Quotes | Read In-Depth Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
| Most Affordable |  |  | Read Review |
| Unique Benefits |  | | Read Review |
| Unlimited Payouts |  | | Read Review |
| Customizable Plans |  | | Read Review |
| Dental Benefits |  | | Read Review |
| Chihuahua Puppies |  | | Read Review |
| Vet Direct Pay |  | | Read Review |
Most Affordable: Pets Best
- Policy Options: Accident-Only, Accident & Illness, Wellness
- Annual Deductible Options: $50, $100, $200, $250, $500, $1,000
- Annual Payout Options: $5,000, $10,000, Unlimited
- Reimbursement Options: 70%, 80%, 90%
Why I Picked Pets Best
For Chihuahuas, Pets Best offers outstanding coverage at some of the most affordable premium prices. They offer three customizable accident and illness plans and an accident-only policy, all at budget-friendly prices. With Pets Best, you can also benefit from much shorter waiting periods for patellar luxation and IVDD — conditions that often affect this breed. Pets Best is hard to beat for its comprehensive coverage at amazing rates.
Expert Price Analysis
Pets Best Chihuahua premiums were consistently among the cheapest quotes I obtained for varying ages and locations. In particular, their pricing for maximum coverage ($100 deductible, 90% reimbursement, unlimited payouts, and add-ons) was surprisingly budget-friendly compared to similar plans from other insurance companies.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Among the most affordable policies for Chihuahuas for any level of coverage | 18-30 day claim processing is longer than average |
| Budget-friendly accident-only plan | Vet exam fee and complementary care* coverage require additional costs |
| 5% off when you insure multiple pets | |
| Covers curable pre-existing conditions once healed | |
| 3-day accident waiting period | |
| Economical optional wellness plans | |
| No upper age limit for senior dogs |
In-Depth Review Of Pets Best
Read my in-depth review of Pets Best to learn more about this provider’s plan options, customization options, waiting periods, reimbursement procedure, and other specifics.
Best For Unique Benefits: Fetch
- Policy Options: Accident & Illness, Wellness
- Annual Deductible Options: $250, $300, $400, $500, $700
- Annual Payout Options: $5,000, $10,000, $15,000
- Reimbursement Options: 70%, 80%, 90%
Why I Picked Fetch
Fetch pet insurance provides comprehensive coverage for your pet’s requirements and unique benefits you won’t find with other insurers. These include virtual vet visits (with no deductible), pet boarding costs if you require hospitalization, trip cancellation insurance if your pet gets sick, financial assistance for lost pets, and more.
Every Fetch policy encompasses coverage for veterinary exam fees, treatment for dental disease, complementary and behavioral therapies, and C-sections. With Fetch, you can also enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’ll receive pre-approval for procedures and cost estimates prior to starting any treatment.
Expert Price Analysis
Based on the quotes I ran, I found that Fetch’s premiums were competitive for younger Chihuahuas compared to other insurers using the same deductible, reimbursement, payout, and exam fees included. For older Chis, Fetch’s pricing was often average to above average.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| All plans cover visit exam fees, dental benefits, behavioral therapies, complementary therapies, and C-sections | Longer than average 15-day accident waiting period |
| Covers curable pre-existing conditions after one year with no symptoms | Waiting periods of 6 months for IVDD and patellar luxation |
| Unique benefits like $1,000 for virtual vet visits | No discount for insuring multiple pets |
| Optional wellness plan available | |
| Able to approve procedures and treatment cost estimates in advance | |
| No upper age limit for senior dogs |
In-Depth Review Of Fetch
Please see my detailed review of Fetch, where I explore its unique coverage, customization features, reimbursement process, and more.
Best For Unlimited Payouts: Healthy Paws
- Policy Options: Accident & Illness
- Annual Deductible Options: $100, $250, $500, $750, $1,000
- Annual Payout Options: Unlimited
- Reimbursement Options: 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%
Why I Picked Healthy Paws
All Healthy Paws’ policies provide unlimited annual payouts, so you never have to be concerned about reaching a cap. While some other insurers have unlimited caps, Healthy Paws is frequently less expensive with the same deductible and reimbursement. Chi owners can significantly benefit from this, as the breed is prone to several costly medical conditions. If you’re mindful of your budget and want the assurance that your coverage won’t run out, Healthy Paws is definitely worth considering.
Expert Price Analysis
Healthy Paws only offers unlimited payouts, making it tricky to compare their premium rates with other insurance providers. That said, I found that their Chihuahua pricing is often similar to or a bit higher than other providers’ policies, with a $5,000 payout and similar deductibles and reimbursement options.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unlimited annual payouts with every policy | Limited customizations for older Chihuahuas |
| Low prices for plans with no caps and comparable coverage | Some Chis are ineligible for insurance based on age and location |
| Covers complementary care | No coverage available for veterinary examination fees and behavioral therapies |
| 2-day average claim processing | Can’t enroll dogs aged 14 and older |
| 15-day waiting period for patellar luxation and IVDD | |
| Excellent track record of customer satisfaction |
In-Depth Review Of Healthy Paws
Find more details about this insurer’s coverage, exclusions, customization choices, waiting periods, and more in my extensive review of Healthy Paws.
Best For Customizable Plans: Figo
- Policy Options: Accident & Illness, Wellness
- Annual Deductible Options: $100, $250, $500, $750
- Annual Payout Options: $5,000, $10,000, Unlimited
- Reimbursement Options: 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%
Why I Picked Figo
Figo offers a variety of options to find — or design — an ideal plan for your Chihuahua. You can choose from three pre-configured accident and illness plans, including the cost-effective Value Plus plan. You can also create your own plan by selecting the annual payout, reimbursement, and deductible that work best for your budget. Additionally, Figo is one of the few insurers to offer 100% reimbursement. Furthermore, all Figo plans cover gum disease, behavioral and complementary therapies, and treatable pre-existing conditions.
Expert Price Analysis
In many cases, Figo offered competitive premium pricing compared to other insurers. This was particularly the case I when I maxed out coverage with a $100 deductible, 90% reimbursement, and unlimited annual payouts.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent customizability, including the option of 100% reimbursement | Vet exam fee coverage requires an additional cost |
| Shortest waiting period for accidents (1 day) in the industry | Waiting periods for IVDD and patellar luxation are 6 months |
| Coverage for dental illness, complementary therapy, and behavioral therapy included in all plans | |
| Covers curable pre-existing conditions after one year with no symptoms | |
| Optional wellness plan | |
| For every year you don’t make a claim, your deductible decreases by $50 | |
| 3-day average claim processing | |
| 5% off when you insure multiple pets | |
| No upper age limit for senior dogs |
In-Depth Review Of Figo
See more details about what this insurer offers, including my personal experience, by reading my comprehensive review of Figo.
Best For Dental Benefits: Embrace
- Policy Options: Accident-Only, Accident & Illness, Wellness
- Annual Deductible Options: $100, $250, $500, $750, $1,000
- Annual Payout Options: $2,000, $5,000, $8,000, $10,000, $15,000, Unlimited
- Reimbursement Options: 70%, 80%, 90%
Why I Picked Embrace
Chihuahuas’ tiny jaws and heads make them highly susceptible to dental issues. Overcrowded teeth dramatically increase the chances of having dental disease, misaligned teeth, and unerupted adult teeth. Embrace offers top dental benefits without the exclusions you’ll find with many insurers. These benefits include coverage for non-routine treatments, endodontic disease, tooth infections and extractions, and more. What also sets Embrace apart from many other providers is their inclusion of $1,000 in annual coverage for dental illness.
Embrace also provides a variety of optional wellness plans. Among these preventative benefits is annual professional dental cleaning, which is essential for Chihuahuas to help avoid dental issues. In addition to excellent dental benefits, each policy covers complementary and behavioral therapies. You also have the option to include vet exam fees and prescription medications in your policy, ensuring you have the most thorough coverage possible.
Expert Price Analysis
When comparing quotes for Chihuahuas, I found that Embrace’s pricing was among the most affordable for lower coverage ($750 deductible, $70% reimbursement, and $5,000 payout). However, with higher coverage ($100 deductible, 90% reimbursement, and unlimited payout), their rates were generally above average compared to other providers offering the same options.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Among the best dental benefits available with minimal exclusions for dental care | Coverage for veterinary exam costs and prescription meds are additional premium fees |
| Complementary care and behavioral therapies included in all policies | Some Chihuahuas aren’t for coverage due to their age and where you live |
| 10% off when you insure multiple pets | Waiting periods for patellar luxation and IVDD are 6 months |
| For every year you don’t make a claim, your deductible decreases by $50 | Dogs enrolled after 15 years old are only eligible for accident-only coverage |
| Covers curable pre-existing conditions after one year with no symptoms | |
| 5-day average claim processing | |
| 3 tiers of optional wellness plans available |
In-Depth Review Of Embrace
My extended review of Embrace will help you learn more about this insurer’s many customization options, benefits, exclusions, waiting periods, and other crucial details.
Best For Chihuahua Puppies: Lemonade
- Policy Options: Accident & Illness, Wellness
- Annual Deductible Options: $100, $250, $500, $750
- Annual Payout Options: $5,000, $10,000, $20,000, $50,000, $100,000
- Reimbursement Options: 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%
Lemonade Pet Insurance Is NOT Available In: AK, AZ, DE, HI, ID, KS, KY, LA, ME, MT, WV, WY
Why I Picked Lemonade
Lemonade is well-known for its affordable pricing, and I found that their premiums for Chi puppies were among the most budget-friendly you can find. On top of that, this insurer has a two-day accident waiting period, so you can feel secure knowing that your tiny Chi puppy is covered if they get hurt while investigating their new world.
Lemonde also has a fantastic wellness plan tailored for puppies. It includes two wellness exams, spaying/neutering, six vaccinations, two fecal tests for parasites, and more. It’s important to inform you that Lemonade entered the pet insurance marketplace in 2020, so it’s not as well-established as the other companies I recommend here. Still, this insurer has quickly gained a good reputation among its customers.
Expert Price Analysis
I discovered that Lemonade consistently had some of the lowest quotes for Chihuahuas with both puppies and older dogs. The premiums remained highly competitive even after I added coverage for vet exam fees.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Among the most affordable premiums for Chi puppies | Unavailable in 12 states |
| 5% off when you insure multiple pets | Extra premium costs for dental benefits, veterinary examinations, complementary care, and behavioral therapy |
| 2-day average claim processing | |
| Covers curable pre-existing conditions after one year with no symptoms | |
| 2 affordable wellness add-on plans (1 is geared toward puppies) | |
| 30-day waiting period for patellar luxation and IVDD coverage is shorter than many |
In-Depth Review Of Lemonade
If you want to learn more about this provider’s add-on and customization options, wellness plans, AI-driven reimbursement process, and more, read my comprehensive review of Lemonade.
Best For Vet Direct Pay: Trupanion
- Policy Options: Accident & Illness
- Per-Incident Deductible Options: $0 – $1,000 (in $5 increments)
- Annual Payout Options: Unlimited
- Reimbursement Options: 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%
Why I Picked Trupanion
Trupanion distinguishes itself from other pet insurance companies with its VetDirect Pay software. With this unique system, Trupanion can do away with the need to wait for your insurer to reimburse you by paying its share of the veterinary bill at the time of checkout. Breeds like Chihuahuas, who are prone to costly health problems like Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, patellar luxation, various eye disorders, dental issues, IVDD, and others, particularly benefit from this solution.
Expert Price Analysis
All Trupanion plans have unlimited annual payouts, so comparing the price of the same coverage with other insurers is difficult. Nevertheless, Trupanion’s Chihuahua premiums were substantially higher, sometimes costing two to three times more than other pet insurers for the same dog.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unlimited annual payouts with every policy | Consistently higher premiums for Chihuahuas than other insurers |
| To avoid waiting for reimbursement, Trupanion can pay your veterinarian directly | No coverage available for veterinary examination costs |
| Covers curable pre-existing conditions after one year with no symptoms | 30-day waiting period for illnesses |
| $0 deductible and 100% reimbursement available in some states | Can’t enroll dogs aged 14 and older |
| 2-day average claim processing | |
| 30-day waiting periods for IVDD and patellar luxation coverage | |
| Covers pre-existing bilateral conditions with no signs present 18 months before the policy’s effective date |
In-Depth Review Of Trupanion
Check out my comprehensive review of Trupanion to uncover more about this insurer’s coverage, customization options, waiting periods, vet direct pay, and more.
What Type Of Pet Insurance Plan Is Best For Chihuahuas?
You can choose from two main types of pet insurance: accident-only plans and those that cover both accidents and illnesses. Additionally, some providers offer optional wellness plans that help with annual checkups, lab tests, and preventive care costs. While these wellness plans aren’t technically insurance, they can be a great way to ensure your Chi stays in top shape.
| Accident-Only | Accident & Illness | Wellness | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Injuries (eye trauma, accidental poisoning, lacerations, fractures, etc.) |  | | |
| Diseases (heart disease, IVDD, hereditary eye disorders, dental illness, hydrocephalus, etc.) | | ||
| Preventative (routine vet exams, vaccinations, professional dental cleaning, etc.) | |
What Are Accident-Only Pet Insurance Plans?
Plans that specifically cover accidents are designed to help with the costs of emergency medical care for pets that experience unexpected injuries or mishaps. These can include incidents such as spinal injuries, wounds, foreign object ingestion, broken bones, and more.
Consider an accident-only plan if you’re watching your budget or your furry friend has multiple pre-existing conditions that wouldn’t be covered in a more extensive insurance policy. Just keep in mind that these plans do not cover illnesses or genetic issues. Additionally, only a limited number of providers offer accident-only plans.
Pricing Tip – Accident-only plans generally have significantly lower premium costs compared to policies that provide coverage for both illnesses and accidents.
What Are Accident & Illness Pet Insurance Plans?
Accident and illness pet insurance plans provide comprehensive coverage for a wide range of medical issues that your pet may face. This includes physical injuries, illnesses, and genetic conditions that affect Chihuahuas, such as patellar luxation, IVDD, cataracts, heart disease, and portosystemic (liver) shunt. With this type of insurance, you can be fully prepared to handle nearly any health problem that may arise for your dog.
What Are Wellness Plans?
Adding a wellness plan to your insurance policy is a wise decision to manage your pet’s well-being effectively. These plans assist in paying for annual physicals, immunizations, dental cleanings, prevention of parasites, and other routine preventive care costs. A wellness plan can alleviate financial concerns and help your pup live a healthier life.
It’s important to note that wellness plans and pet insurance are distinct. Wellness plans only cover preventive care costs and do not include coverage for accidents, illnesses, or genetic conditions.
What Does Pet Insurance Cover & Exclude?
Your choice of insurance provider and the type of policy will determine how much coverage your pet insurance offers. Most accident and illness policies usually cover the items below — when a veterinarian certifies they are medically necessary. Still, this coverage might have restrictions, so it’s important to carefully read any policy’s fine print.
| Covered | Excluded |
|---|---|
| Blood tests | Boarding |
| Cancer (chemo & radiation) | Cremation & burial costs |
| CT scans | Elective procedures (e.g., declawing, ear cropping, spaying/neutering, tail docking, etc.) |
| Chronic conditions | Food & supplements |
| Congenital conditions | Grooming |
| Emergency care | Pre-existing conditions* |
| Euthanasia | Pregnancy & breeding |
| Hereditary conditions | Vaccines |
| MRIs | |
| Non-routine dental treatment | |
| Prescription medications | |
| Rehabilitation | |
| Specialized exams & care | |
| Surgery & hospitalization | |
| Ultrasounds | |
| X-rays |
Learn More About Pet Insurance Coverage
It can be challenging to understand the subtleties of coverage and exclusions, so I suggest reading my comprehensive guide on what pet insurance does and doesn’t cover.
What Determines The Cost Of Pet Insurance For Chihuahuas?
Pet insurance premiums vary depending on several factors, such as where you live, your dog’s age, and the underwriting requirements of insurance providers. Here’s a broad summary of these factors.
- Your dog’s age is a prominent factor in how much pet insurance will cost. For example, older dogs are at higher risk for health problems than younger ones, which results in higher premiums as dogs age.
- The cost of living in your area also impacts insurance premiums. Higher living costs affect both you and your veterinarian, so if you reside in an area with a high cost of living, you can expect your vet bills and pet insurance costs to be higher.
- The breed of your dog is another important consideration for insurance costs. Certain breeds are more prone to health problems than others. Furthermore, purebred dogs, like Chihuahuas, often have more health issues, resulting in increased insurance expenses.
- Your dog’s gender may also affect premium pricing. For some breeds, males are slightly more expensive to insure than females because they’re larger. Alternatively, some health conditions are more prevalent in one sex over the other, so this could also affect pricing. However, not all insurance companies charge higher premiums based on the dog’s gender.
Even though you might not be able to control every factor that affects the cost of your policy, most insurers give you plenty of ways to customize your plan to fit your unique needs and budget. Let’s explore how you can make the most of these options.
Customization Options Affect Cost & Benefits
Most pet insurance providers offer a range of customizable options to fit your budget and your pet’s health needs. First, you can choose a plan that covers just accidents or one that includes illness coverage as well. Furthermore, you can modify the deductible, reimbursement rate, and maximum payout. It’s essential to grasp how these changes affect your benefits and overall coverage.
What Is The Maximum Payout?
In the pet insurance market, there are two types of payouts: annual and lifetime. An annual cap refers to the highest amount your pet’s insurance provider will reimburse for medical expenses within a single policy year. Conversely, a lifetime cap is the total amount the insurance company will pay during your pet’s insured lifetime. Most pet insurers have annual payouts, with typical choices of $5,000, $10,000, and unlimited.
Pricing Tip – Choosing a higher payout increases your monthly premium, but the benefit is lower out-of-pocket expenses if your pup requires treatment.
Is The Deductible Annual Or Per-Condition?
The deductible is the set amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance company will cover the cost of vet care for your dog. Here’s a quick summary of the two types of deductibles in pet insurance. The most common deductibles are $100, $250, and $500.
- Annual deductible: This is the set amount you’re responsible for paying each policy year (if your pup needs vet care), no matter how many health issues arise or treatments are required. This consistency allows you to better budget for your pet’s healthcare costs.
- Lifetime per-incident deductible: You must cover a per-condition deductible each time your pet needs treatment for a new medical problem. This type of deductible can accumulate quickly if your dog has numerous health issues in one year. However, this deductible can be financially beneficial for ongoing conditions such as dental disease, glaucoma, and heart disease because you only pay it once for each condition during your pet’s insured lifetime.
Pricing Tip – Selecting a higher deductible reduces your monthly premium.
What’s The Reimbursement Percentage?
The reimbursement rate is the percentage of your veterinary expenses the provider covers after you pay your deductible. Typical reimbursement percentages include 70%, 80%, and 90%. For example, if you choose a 90% reimbursement, you are only responsible for 10% of the total vet costs after you meet your deductible.
Pricing Tip – Choosing a lower reimbursement rate decreases your monthly premium, but it means that your out-of-pocket costs for treatment will be higher.
Learn More About Pet Insurance Costs
If you’d like more information about how various customization choices affect your benefits and some specific examples, check out my in-depth article on pet insurance costs.
How Much Is Pet Insurance For Chihuahuas?
To find the most valuable pet insurance for your Chihuahua, simply enter your zip code and your dog’s details in the form below. Then, we’ll provide you with customized insurance quotes from several companies. This will give you the most precise premium pricing for your canine companion.
According to NAPHIA (North American Pet Health Insurance Association), the average monthly premium for an accident and illness dog insurance policy in the U.S. is $56.30 ($31.94 for cats).
I’ve obtained quotes for Chihuahuas of different ages and locations to give you a general idea of pet insurance costs. These quotes consider similar customization options (deductible, reimbursement, and payout) for comparison’s sake.
| Company | 6mo old male 95818 (Sacramento, CA) | 1yr old female 14211 (Buffalo, NY) | 2yr old male 33604 (Tampa, FL) | 5yr old female 78731 (Austin, TX) | 8yr old male 07305 (Jersey City, NJ) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $23.27 | $16.57 | $14.79 | $23.82 | $61.58 |
| $32.59 | $23.72 | $28.17 | $48.59 | $72.28* |
| $29.09*§ | $19.86*§ | $40.89§ | $40.42*§ | $40.80†§ |
| $26.17 | $21.27 | $16.99 | $28.05 | $78.56 |
| $23.04 | $27.29 | $17.99 | $33.04 | $50.06 |
| $20.90 | $19.89 | $12.67 | $25.39 | $45.03 |
| $58.73§ | $78.52§ | $131.31‡§ | $92.88§ | $166.26§ |
*80% reimbursement; †50% reimbursement and $1,000 deductible (no other options); ‡$0 deductible; §Unlimited annual payouts
Chihuahua Insurance Cost: Lowest & Highest Amounts
I’ve also gathered the lowest and highest monthly costs for Chihuahua pet insurance from various insurers, considering deductible, reimbursement, payout, and add-on options (not including wellness plans). I’ve included two different age options to illustrate how the costs change with age.
| Company | 2mo old 95818 (Sacramento, CA) | 5yr old 95818 (Sacramento, CA) | 2mo old 14211 (Buffalo, NY) | 5yr old 14211 (Buffalo, NY) | 2mo old 33604 (Tampa, FL) | 5yr old 33604 (Tampa, FL) | 2mo old 78731 (Austin, TX) | 5yr old 78731 (Austin, TX) | 2mo old 07305 (Jersey City, NJ) | 5yr old 07305 (Jersey City, NJ) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $11-$65 | $13-$78 | $7-$47 | $9-$60 | $8-$49 | $9-$56 | $9-$52 | $11-$60 | $13-$73 | $15-$84 |
| $22-$54 | $32-$81 | $22-$35 | $28-$60 | $19-$41 | $31-$70 | $22-$44 | $34-$74 | $22-$37 | $33-$62 |
| $17-$44 | $25-$50 | $15-$31 | Uninsurable | $26-$59 | $40-$102 | $21-$53 | $31-$48 | $17-$34 | $24-$38 |
| $12-$68 | $15-$88 | $9-$66 | $11-$86 | $7-$53 | $10-$77 | $8-$58 | $11-$84 | $15-$94 | $19-$122 |
| $11-$89 | Uninsurable | $10-$83 | $10-$85 | $7-$46 | $9-$60 | $10-$67 | $13-$88 | $11-$70 | $14-$92 |
| $11-$89 | $14-$107 | $13-$81 | $15-$86 | $11-$55 | $11-$69 | $20-$91 | $19-$91 | $16-$89 | $17-$95 |
| $36-$143 | $71-$303 | $42-$171 | $71-$305 | $54-$101 | $116-$215 | $31-$117 | $57-$238 | $35-$137 | $67-$287 |
What Are Waiting Periods For Chihuahua Pet Insurance?
The waiting period signifies the duration between enrolling in a pet insurance plan and when your coverage becomes effective. In most states, each insurance provider determines the duration of this period. The waiting period for accidents varies from 0 to 15 days, while for illnesses, it is approximately 14 days. Orthopedic and spinal conditions like patellar luxation, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and IVDD in Chihuahuas might be subjected to longer waiting periods by some insurers.
*States are slowly adopting a Model Law for pet insurance. This Model Law attempts to standardize each state’s regulations, which includes a standard for waiting periods that all companies must follow. Waiting periods for California, Delaware, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Washington, Rhode Island, and Maryland are as follows:
- Accidents – 0 days
- Illnesses – 14 days
- Cruciate Ligament Conditions – 30 days
- Routine Care – 0 days
Learn More About Waiting Periods
Discover the reasons for waiting times and learn other essential information regarding pet insurance waiting periods.
How Does Pet Insurance For Chihuahuas Work?
Using your pet insurance is easy once the waiting periods specified in your policy have passed.
- After your dog receives care, pay your veterinarian directly.
- In order to submit a claim, you must fill out a claim form and give your insurance company an itemized receipt. Some insurance companies require your veterinarian’s signature on the claim form, so bring a copy to your appointment.
- You will receive your reimbursement* via your selected payment method—a check, direct deposit, or another option—as soon as the insurance company approves your claim.
*Reimbursement times vary widely; they can be as short as a few minutes or as long as several weeks. This depends on the complexity of your claim and the stated length of time the company takes to process your claim.
12 Common Health Issues In Chihuahuas
Although the American Kennel Club says that Chihuahuas have an average lifespan of 14 to 16 years, many don’t live quite that long due to many health issues that affect this breed. As a Chi owner, it’s important to familiarize yourself with some common health risks and associated costs of raising this breed.
Obesity is a common issue among Chihuahuas. As a Chi owner, keeping an eye on your furry friend’s weight is essential. If not managed, your dog may face an increased risk of orthopedic and heart issues, which they are already more likely to experience. Additionally, being overweight can contribute to diabetes, a greater chance of cancer, kidney problems, and other health concerns.
- Research shows that Chihuahuas are among the top breeds with a prevalence of patella luxation (dislocated kneecap). This issue affects both hind knees in more than half of the cases. To address these ongoing knee issues, surgery is often necessary, and the expenses can range from $1,500 to $3,000 for each knee.
- Smaller breeds like Chis are susceptible to Legg-Calve-Perthes disease at a young age. It causes the femur head to deteriorate, resulting in the collapse of the hip joint. Treatment usually involves hip surgery, medications, and post-op rehab, which can cost around $2,000 to $4,000 per hip joint.
- A congenital condition known as a portosystemic (liver) shunt involves an abnormal blood vessel that impairs the liver’s ability to filter toxins. This problem frequently requires surgery, with simple cases costing between $2,000 and $3,000. Complicated cases, however, may cost more than $10,000.
- This breed is at high risk for several eye disorders, including cataracts, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and chronic dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). Diagnosing these conditions can be costly; some conditions can be treated with surgery and medication. Cataract surgery ranges from $2,600 to $3,800, and glaucoma treatment can cost over $2,000. KCS requires daily eye drops for life, which cost from $20 to $50 per month. Unfortunately, there is no cure for PRA.
- Dental disease is a prevalent issue among Chihuahuas because of their compact jaws and overcrowding of teeth. It is vital to establish a regular home dental cleaning routine and schedule annual professional dental cleanings, which typically cost between $300 and $700 (a wellness plan can assist with covering these expenses).
- Compared to many other breeds, Chis are more likely to retain their baby teeth. These puppy teeth frequently need to be extracted to create space for adult teeth to erupt. The cost of anesthesia, X-rays, and tooth extractions can reach $1,000 or higher.
- Chihuahuas are highly predisposed to two heart problems, including patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and mitral valve disease. When caught early, costs to diagnose and treat PDA runs at about $2,500 to $5,000 and $500 to $2,000 for mitral valve disease medication treatment. Surgery to cure mitral valve disease averages $30,000.
- Tracheal collapse occurs when the cartilage in the trachea becomes weak. The cost of diagnosis can vary from $500 to $2,000, and if surgery is needed to reinforce the windpipe, the total expenses could increase by an additional $2,000 to $5,000.
- Chihuahuas often face the risk of hydrocephalus, which is linked to a molera or a soft area on their skull. This condition happens when there is an accumulation of spinal fluid around the brain, leading to issues like seizures, poor coordination, and various neurological problems. Monthly medications to manage seizures and reduce brain inflammation typically cost about $50. Veterinary specialists are required for surgery and can range from $5,000 to $10,000.
- Very small breeds like Chis are at high risk for hypoglycemia, a sharp decrease in blood sugar levels. Blood glucose tests, blood work, imaging, oral liquid glucose administration, and IV fluids are some of the diagnostic and treatment options. Depending on underlying conditions, the price can range from $80 to $8,000.
- When a dog’s intervertebral discs shift into the spinal canal, it results in intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). In Chihuahuas, this can occur from an accident, but this breed is also prone to hereditary IVDD. X-rays, CT, MRI, medication, surgery, frequent veterinary visits, alternative therapy, hospital stays, and more may be necessary to diagnose and treat IVDD. Vet bills could run from $3,000 to $8,000.
- High levels of minerals in urine may contribute to the formation of bladder stones. Depending on their size and number, these stones can be treated with either non-surgical or surgical procedures. The costs for treatment can go as high as $3,000.
Is Pet Insurance Worth It For Chihuahuas?
Take a look at the data. A report by the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACV) found that 18% of Chis had one or more eye disorders. Patella luxation affected over 6% of Chis tested, according to the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA) 2023 testing statistics. In addition, research by the Royal Veterinary College found that over 13% had dental disease.
This breed can have numerous health issues that could result in high expenses if you don’t have pet insurance. However, thanks to pet insurance, your Chihuahua could receive excellent medical care without worrying about expensive bills. It’s crucial to get insurance for your furry friend before any medical emergencies or inherited problems arise. Pre-existing conditions are often not covered once you enroll, so it’s best to get coverage as soon as possible.
Determine If Your Chihuahua Needs Insurance
To help you decide if pet insurance is a wise investment for your Chi, I invite you to read my in-depth guide on whether pet insurance is worth it. It will assist you in weighing the benefits and drawbacks.
5 Steps To Find The Best Pet Insurance For Chihuahuas
These are the essential things to keep in mind when choosing the best insurance plan for your needs and those of your Chihuahua, as well as your budget.
- Find out about the standing and reputation of the insurance companies. Experienced companies are typically more reliable than recently established ones.
- Consider all the health conditions Chihuahuas are prone to and become familiar with the terms related to insurance coverage for those conditions.
- Consider whether you would rather have a more comprehensive plan that covers illnesses and accidents, or a more limited one that only covers accidents.
- Understand the typical processing time and the procedure for claim reimbursement.
- To compare costs, get quotes from at least three different pet insurance providers.
Methodology
To determine the best pet insurance for Chihuahuas, we analyzed more than 40 U.S. pet insurance companies to provide an unbiased breakdown of how providers compare against one another. Our in-depth research includes:
- Running thousands of price quotes
- Reading hundreds of customer reviews
- Scrutinizing every policy from top to bottom and reading all the fine print
- Scoping out the purchase process
- Speaking with customer service representatives
- Having firsthand experience submitting claims with companies
- Comparing plan customization details
- Examining how long it takes to receive reimbursement
- Factoring in company history and years in the pet insurance marketplace
- Meeting with company representatives to discuss changes related to the industry, their company, and their offerings
- Requiring national experience for companies
Unlike many other review sites, we refuse to let pet insurance companies pay for the top spot in our rankings. Companies must earn their position in our comparisons by performing well in the marketplace. We also highlight each company’s pros and cons in light of their competitor’s strengths. In doing so for over a decade, we’ve helped pet parents make more educated decisions among the top pet insurance options. Pet insurance providers read our reviews, regularly check them for accuracy, and value our input to help create positive industry changes and better protect your pets. We only recommend the best of the best because it’s what our readers deserve.
Additional Pet Insurance Resources
- Best Pet Insurance
- Is Pet Insurance Worth It?
- What Does Pet Insurance Cover?
- How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost?
- Best Pet Insurance For Pre-Existing Conditions
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Canine Journal has been covering the topic of pet insurance since 2012, well before other conglomerates discovered the rising popularity of health care for our pets. Many of our authors have personal experience with pet insurance, including Kimberly Alt, who has been Canine Journal’s go-to writer for pet insurance for over a decade, having written about nearly every possible facet related to pet insurance. Kimberly knows the subject so well that she can answer a breadth and depth of pet insurance questions immediately. And on the rare occasion she doesn’t know the answer off the top of her head, she can find it within minutes due to her vast list of resources. Kimberly also has extensive knowledge of dog health conditions, which can help her recommend pet insurance providers to pet owners with specific breeds.
Kimberly collaborated with Sally Jones, a seasoned health sciences communications professional with decades of experience. Sally specializes in dog health and is adept at producing content on technical topics such as pet insurance. Her wealth of knowledge and insight played a crucial role in this article’s thorough research and composition.
Kimberly also consulted with Michelle Schenker, Canine Journal’s in-house licensed insurance agent, for additional expertise to ensure accuracy and give Canine Journal the authority to write about and assist readers in purchasing policies that are accurately represented.
