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Basset Hounds are lovable, long-eared charmers, but their unique build and genetics can make them prone to certain health issues.
From ear infections and obesity to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and joint problems, Bassets can rack up some pricey vet bills over their lifetime.
That’s where pet insurance comes in.
A good plan can help ease the financial burden by covering many of the costs of diagnosing and treating these conditions.
In this article, I’ll walk you through:
- The most common Basset Hound health concerns
- The estimated costs of treating them
- How to choose the best pet insurance based on your Basset’s specific needs
Not all policies are created equal, so let’s find the right fit for your floppy-eared friend.
Best Pet Insurance For Basset Hounds
I’ve researched the top pet insurance options for Basset Hounds, focusing on what matters most to pet parents.
Using key factors like:
- Age
- Premium cost
- Coverage details
- Breed-specific health concerns
…I’ve selected the most reliable insurers to help you find the right policy for your Basset.
Whether you’re monitoring for eye conditions like glaucoma or managing skin infections caused by their deep folds, the right coverage can make all the difference.
| Best For | Company | Get Quotes | Read In-Depth Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia & IVDD |  |  | Read Review |
| All-Inclusive Plans |  | | Read Review |
| Unlimited Payouts |  | | Read Review |
| Basset Hound Puppies |  | | Read Review |
| Behavioral Issues |  | | Read Review |
| Most Affordable |  | | Read Review |
| Vet Direct Pay |  | | Read Review |
Best For Hip Dysplasia & IVDD: Pets Best
Basset Hounds are prone to hip dysplasia and IVDD—two pricey issues many insurers delay or exclude. Pets Best covers both after just 14 days, with unlimited payout options to handle big bills.
Why It’s a Great Fit:
- Early coverage for major orthopedic issues
- Unlimited payouts available
- Low prices for puppies and seniors
Estimated Cost:
- 2-month-old: $15–$30/month
- Older Bassets: Usually under $50/month
Bottom Line:
Pets Best offers rare early protection for common Basset health issues at a great price.
See our full Pets Best review.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely competitive pricing | Claims take 10 days on average |
| 5% multi-pet discount | Exam fees and complementary therapy cost extra* |
| Optional wellness plans at low rates | Accident-only plan excludes CCL injuries |
| Covers treatable pre-existing conditions once healed | |
| Only 14-day wait for hip dysplasia and IVDD (vs 6 months) | |
| 3-day accident waiting period (shorter than average) | |
| No maximum age restrictions for enrollment | |
| 24/7 vet helpline |
Best For All-Inclusive Plans: Fetch
Fetch offers broad protection with few exclusions, making it a top choice for Basset Hound parents who want peace of mind from day one.
Why It’s a Great Fit:
- Covers vet exam fees, dental illness, complementary & behavioral therapy, C-sections, and curable pre-existing conditions (after 12 months symptom-free)
- Pre-approvals for treatment estimates help avoid surprise bills
- Includes rare extras like virtual vet visits, trip cancellation, and lost pet help
Estimated Cost:
- 2-month-old: $30–$50/month
- 5-year-old: $50–$100/month
Bottom Line:
Fetch is a strong pick if you enroll early. The comprehensive coverage can be crucial for Bassets prone to long-term conditions.
See our full Fetch review.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Broad coverage with few exclusions | May not cover IVDD if previously treated* |
| Includes free virtual vet visits, trip cancellation, lost pet help | 6-month wait for patellar luxation & hip dysplasia |
| Covers curable pre-existing conditions | No multi-pet discount |
| Allows pre-approval for care & costs | |
| No age limits, even for senior Bassets | |
| Optional wellness plan | |
| Puppies can be enrolled at 6 weeks |
Best For Unlimited Payouts: Healthy Paws
Healthy Paws includes unlimited payouts on every plan, making it ideal for Basset Hound owners who want coverage with no caps—ever.
Why It’s a Great Fit:
- Covers chronic, costly conditions like IVDD, hip dysplasia, and ear infections
- No payout limits, no matter how much care your dog needs
- Known for fast claims processing (often 2 days) and high customer satisfaction
Estimated Cost:
- Puppies: Often under $45/month
- Varies based on location, deductible, and reimbursement rate
Bottom Line:
Healthy Paws offers worry-free protection for serious conditions with unlimited coverage and quick claims.
See our full Healthy Paws review.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unlimited annual payouts on all plans | Fewer customization options for older dogs |
| Competitive rates for unlimited coverage | No coverage for exam fees or behavioral therapy |
| Quick claim processing (avg. 2 days) | No hip dysplasia coverage if enrolled after age 6 |
| Short 15-day wait for IVDD & patellar luxation | 12-month wait for hip dysplasia if under age 6 |
| Covers complementary therapies | Some dogs may be ineligible based on age or location |
| High customer satisfaction | Age limit of 14 to enroll |
Best For Basset Hound Puppies: Figo
Figo is a great pick for Basset Hound puppies thanks to its 1-day accident coverage, 100% reimbursement option, and flexible plans.
Why It’s a Great Fit:
- Ultra-short waiting period for accidents (1 day)
- Customizable plans with 100% reimbursement and unlimited payouts
- Includes behavioral therapy, complementary care, and gum disease coverage
- Deductible drops by $50 for each claim-free year
Estimated Cost:
- Starts around $20–$35/month for puppies with a $5K or $10K cap
- Pricing stays competitive even with maxed-out coverage
Bottom Line:
Figo offers fast, flexible coverage that grows with your puppy—ideal for new Basset parents.
See our full Figo review.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Some of the most affordable pricing for puppies | Vet exam fee coverage costs extra |
| Highly customizable—including 100% reimbursement | 6-month wait for IVDD and hip dysplasia |
| 1-day accident waiting period | |
| Includes behavioral, complementary, and dental care | |
| Deductible drops $50 each year with no claims | |
| Optional wellness plans available | |
| Fast 3-day claims processing | |
| 5% discount for multiple pets |
Best For Behavioral Issues: Embrace
If you’re worried your Basset Hound will struggle with anxiety, aggression, or destructive behavior, Embrace offers rare behavioral coverage plus strong dental benefits.
Why It’s a Great Fit:
- Covers behavioral therapy and training (anxiety, aggression, chewing)
- Includes $1,000/year for dental illness (extractions, infections, etc.)
- Customizable plans with optional coverage for exam fees and prescriptions
Estimated Cost:
- Typically in the mid-to-high pricing tier, especially with add-ons
- But you get broad coverage where other providers fall short
Bottom Line:
Embrace is ideal for behavioral and dental support—two areas often excluded by other plans.
See our full Embrace review.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Covers behavioral therapy for anxiety, aggression, etc. | Mid-to-high monthly premiums |
| Includes $1,000/year for dental illness | Prescription drugs and exam fees cost extra |
| Fully customizable plans with unlimited payout option | No coverage for pre-existing conditions (standard across providers) |
| Optional wellness coverage | |
| Vanishing deductible rewards claim-free years | |
| Covers complementary care |
Most Affordable: Lemonade
Lemonade is a smart choice for Basset Hound parents on a budget. It offers low-cost, flexible plans without cutting corners on coverage.
Why It’s a Great Fit:
- Among the cheapest pet insurance options
- Plans start under $25/month for puppies
- Add-ons available for dental, exam fees, behavior, and more
- 2-day accident waiting period
- Lightning-fast claims—sometimes paid in minutes
Estimated Cost:
- Even with extras, total monthly cost stays below the industry average
Bottom Line:
Lemonade keeps premiums low while still offering strong, customizable coverage.
Check out our full Lemonade review.
Lemonade Pet Insurance Is NOT Available In: AK, DE, HI, ID, KS, KY, ME, SD, VT, WV, WY
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Among the most affordable premiums for Basset puppies | Unavailable in 11 states |
| 5% discount for multiple pets | Exam fees, dental illness, behavioral therapy, and complementary care require add-ons |
| Fast claim processing (avg. 2 days) | Newer company with a shorter track record |
| Covers curable pre-existing conditions after 12 symptom-free months | No phone support—app and email only |
| Two wellness plans available, including one for puppies | |
| Short 30-day wait for hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and IVDD (vs 6 months with other providers) |
Best For Vet Direct Pay: Trupanion
Trupanion is the only major provider that can pay your vet directly at checkout, so you don’t have to cover a large bill out of pocket and wait for reimbursement.
Why It’s a Great Fit:
- Covers expensive issues like IVDD, hip dysplasia, and eye disorders
- Vet Direct Pay means no paperwork or waiting
- You pay just your deductible and coinsurance
- Lifetime per-condition deductibles (set once per issue)
- Unlimited payouts on all plans
Estimated Cost:
- Typically, one of the most expensive providers
- But unique features like real-time vet pay and lifetime deductibles can offset long-term costs
Bottom Line:
If you’re worried about upfront vet bills, Trupanion’s direct pay system and unlimited coverage offer peace of mind—especially for chronic or emergency care.
Check out our full Trupanion review.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Vet Direct Pay eliminates reimbursement delays | High premiums compared to other providers |
| No payout limits (annual or lifetime) | No coverage for vet exam fees |
| Short 30-day wait for IVDD, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation | 30-day illness waiting period (longer than average) |
| Covers curable pre-existing conditions after 12 months | Age limit of 14 years to enroll |
| Quick claim processing (avg. 2 days) |
Plan Options Comparison Table
All providers listed offer accident and illness plans—the most complete coverage for Basset Hounds.
Your best fit depends on budget and needs, including:
- Deductibles
- Reimbursement rates
- Annual payout limits
Some also offer wellness add-ons or accident-only plans for more flexibility.
Use the table below to compare features side by side.
| Company | Deductibles | Reimbursements | Limits | Wellness Plans | Accident-Only Plans |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $50–$1,000 | 70%, 80%, 90% | $5,000, $10,000, Unlimited |  | |
| $250–$700 | 70%, 80%, 90% | $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, or Unlimited | | |
| $100–$1,000 | 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% | Unlimited | ||
| $100–$750 | 70%, 80%, 90%, 100% | $5,000, $10,000, Unlimited | | |
| $100–$1,000 | 70%, 80%, 90% | $2,000, $5,000, $8,000, $10,000, $15,000, Unlimited | | |
| $100–$750 | 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% | $5,000, $10,000, $20,000, $50,000, $100,000 | | |
| $0–$1,000 | 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100% | Unlimited |
What Type of Pet Insurance Plan Is Best For Basset Hounds?
There are two main types of pet insurance plans:
Accident-only and accident & illness.
Some providers also offer wellness plans as optional add-ons. While these aren’t technically insurance, they’re often available at signup, so I’ll include them here to help you decide what’s best for your Basset.
What Is An Accident-Only Plan?
Accident-only insurance covers unexpected injuries like:
- Broken bones
- Bite wounds
- Eye trauma
- Torn ligaments (like cranial cruciate ligament [CCL] tears)
These plans are great for emergencies but won’t help with illnesses or chronic conditions.
Pricing Tip: Accident-only plans are usually the cheapest option since they don’t include coverage for diseases or genetic conditions.
What Is An Accident & Illness Plan?
This is the most popular and comprehensive option.
It includes everything covered in accident-only plans, plus:
- Ear infections
- IVDD
- Joint and back issues
- Glaucoma and other eye diseases
- Digestive problems
- Skin infections
- And much more
If you want solid coverage for the most common Basset Hound health problems, this is the way to go.
What Are Wellness Plans?
Wellness add-ons help cover routine and preventative care, such as:
- Annual vet exams
- Vaccinations
- Dental cleanings
- Flea, tick & heartworm prevention
- Spaying/neutering
While not actual pet insurance, wellness plans help you budget for yearly vet visits and encourage preventive care, which can help your Basset avoid bigger problems down the road.
Important note: Wellness plans only cover routine care, they won’t help with accidents or unexpected illnesses.
What Does Pet Insurance Cover & Exclude?
Coverage can vary based on the provider and the plan you choose.
Most accident & illness plans cover the following, as long as it’s medically necessary and not pre-existing:
| Covered | Excluded |
|---|---|
| Alternative therapies (e.g., acupuncture, physical therapy, rehab, etc.) | Boarding |
| Diagnostic tests (bloodwork, X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds) | Cremation & burial costs |
| Emergency care & hospitalization | Elective procedures (declawing, ear cropping, tail docking, spaying/neutering) |
| Euthanasia (if due to a covered condition) | Food & supplements |
| Hereditary & chronic conditions (e.g., IVDD, glaucoma, hypothyroidism, etc.) | Grooming |
| Illnesses (cancer, ear infections, GI issues, eye problems) | Pre-existing conditions* |
| Injuries (cuts, broken bones, bite wounds) | Pregnancy & breeding |
| Non-routine dental treatment | Preventable conditions (e.g., parasites, illnesses due to lack of routine care, etc.) |
| Prescription medications | Routine care (annual exams, vaccines, dental cleanings) |
| Specialists (cardiologists, neurologists, etc.) | |
| Surgery |
Learn More About What Pet Insurance Covers
Want a deeper look at what’s included (and what’s not)?
Explore pet insurance coverage details so you know exactly what to expect before signing up.
What Determines the Cost of Pet Insurance for Basset Hounds?
Pet insurance pricing can feel complicated, but it really comes down to a few key factors, many of which are specific to your dog.
Here’s what affects the price of a Basset Hound’s pet insurance plan:
- Age
- Younger Bassets are generally cheaper to insure.
- As your pup ages, the risk of chronic issues like IVDD or glaucoma increases, so premiums go up, too.
- Breed
- Purebreds like Basset Hounds are more prone to genetic health issues than mixed breeds, making them more expensive to insure.
- Gender
- Males are often larger and may require higher doses of medications or bigger medical equipment, which can lead to slightly higher premiums with some providers.
- Location
- Live in a city with high vet costs? Your premium will likely be higher too.
- Insurers base pricing partly on the cost of veterinary care in your zip code.
You Can Still Control Some Costs
You can’t change your Basset’s age, breed, or gender, but you can adjust your coverage details to fit your budget.
Maximum Payout
This is the most your insurance will reimburse:
- Annual payout (used by most insurers): Max per year (common: $5,000, $10,000, or unlimited)
- Lifetime payout: Max over your dog’s entire life
Pricing Tip: Lower payouts mean cheaper premiums but more out-of-pocket if your Basset needs costly treatment.
Deductible Type
- Annual deductible: You pay once per year (most common and budget-friendly)
- Per-condition deductible: You pay once for each new condition (cost-effective for dogs diagnosed with chronic conditions)
Pricing Tip: Higher deductibles = lower monthly premiums.
Reimbursement Percentage
This is the amount your insurer will pay after you’ve met your deductible:
- Common options: 70%, 80%, or 90%
If you choose 80%, you pay 20% of the vet bill (your copay) after the deductible.
Pricing Tip: Lower reimbursement = lower premium, but more out-of-pocket at claim time.
Learn More About Pet Insurance Costs
Want to dive deeper?
Explore how premiums are calculated and get tips on saving money while staying covered.
How Much Is Pet Insurance For A Basset Hound?
Want to know what you’ll actually pay?
Just enter your zip code and your Basset Hound’s details below. You’ll get personalized quotes from top pet insurance providers tailored to your dog’s breed, age, and location.
Looking at sample rates across the U.S. can be helpful, but remember:
Your dog’s specific needs will affect your final price.
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 $62.44 ($32.10 for cats).
Below is a price comparison showing monthly premiums for several Basset Hounds in different parts of the U.S.
Keep in mind: Your actual quote will vary based on your dog’s age, location, and health history.
| Company | 6mo old male 95818 (Sacramento, CA) | 1yr old female 14211 (Buffalo, NY) | 2yr old male 33604 (Tampa, FL) | 5yr old female 78040 (Laredo, TX) | 8yr old male 07108 (Newark, NJ) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $56.66 | $36.10 | $42.57 | $53.93 | $160.91 |
| $68.88 | $74.37 | $76.95* | $75.24 | $190.43 |
| $73.84**§ | $43.21**§ | $47.33**§ | $75.02**§ | $111.19†§ |
| $63.48 | $55.04 | $62.11 | $70.54 | $170.54 |
| $73.89 | $84.70 | $69.66 | $76.56 | $153.56 |
| $46.53 | $38.39 | $43.72 | $36.96 | $81.10 |
| $117.97§ | $131.79§ | $143.08§ | $257.72§ | $389.96§ |
*$400 deductible; **80% reimbursement; †60% reimbursement and $1,000 deductible; ‡$0 deductible; §Unlimited annual payouts
Basset Hound Insurance Cost: Low & High Estimates
Here’s a snapshot of the lowest and highest monthly premiums for Basset Hound pet insurance from each major provider (wellness plans not included).
I’ve included pricing for two different ages to show how premiums can change depending on when you enroll your pup.
Tip: Enrolling your Basset Hound at a younger age can help you lock in a lower monthly rate.
| 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 78040 (Laredo, TX) | 5yr old 78040 (Laredo, TX) | 2mo old 07108 (Newark, NJ) | 5yr old 07108 (Newark, NJ) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $25.34-$157.44 | $34.16-$212.24 | $16.14-$102.69 | $21.76-$138.44 | $22.12-$140.48 | $27.31-$173.44 | $19.53-$110.92 | $24.14-$136.94 | $28.59-$164.49 | $28.59-$164.49 |
| $45.34-$116.27 | $107.26-$283.17 | $51.24-$114.75 | $93.58-$215.26 | $47.50-$108.62 | $86.90-$202.14 | $29.83-$63.94 | $51.82-$116.12 | $42.59-$94.22 | $75.87-$173.21 |
| $43.95-$86.87 | $65.27-$129.63 | $25.56-$52.22 | Uninsurable | $20.63-$51.58 | $38.42-$96.04 | $29.79-$58.65 | $44.58-$88.26 | $33.00-$64.62 | $47.84-$94.15 |
| $28.05-$165.02 | $36.44-$214.42 | $21.80-$165.25 | $28.33-$214.76 | $25.43-$192.81 | $33.96-$257.53 | $20.11-$152.39 | $26.83-$203.49 | $31.52-$203.77 | $40.94-$264.79 |
| $32.73-$197.10 | $32.73-$197.10 | $29.67-$258.89 | $30.36-$264.85 | $27.28-$179.75 | $35.46-$233.67 | $23.57-$155.34 | $30.88-$203.49 | $32.60-$214.81 | $42.70-$281.40 |
| $23.24-$169.58 | $49.58-$196.93 | $23.20-$139.48 | $26.84-$158.90 | $29.78-$222.99 | $34.61-$261.42 | $20.16-$97.53 | $24.31-$94.60 | $32.34-$148.17 | $54.66-$143.27 |
| $69.61-$342.55 | $143.91-$734.69 | $70.00-$344.57 | $121.16-$614.61 | $65.81-$322.46 | $132.75-$590.85 | $72.59-$380.78 | $148.48-$807.43 | $74.35-$390.71 | $151.77-$825.89 |
*The only plan available was 70% reimbursement, a $500 deductible, and unlimited payouts.
How Does Pet Insurance Work for Basset Hounds?
Pet insurance helps cover the cost of vet care for your insured Basset’s injuries or illnesses. But before coverage begins, you’ll need to wait out any waiting periods (usually 0–15 days, depending on the provider).
Once active, your reimbursement depends on your:
- Deductible
- Reimbursement percentage
- Maximum payout
- Coverage and exclusions
The good news? Using pet insurance is usually pretty simple.
How To Use Your Pet Insurance
- Visit the vet
- Pay your bill upfront
- Submit a claim with an itemized receipt
- Get reimbursed by check or direct deposit (depending on your setup)
Reimbursement times vary by provider: some may approve claims in minutes, while others may take a few days or weeks.
What Are Waiting Periods for Basset Hound Pet Insurance?
A waiting period is the time between when you enroll and when your coverage actually begins.
Every pet insurance provider has different rules, but here’s what you can usually expect:
- Accident coverage: 0 to 15 days
- Illness coverage: Typically 14 days
- Orthopedic conditions (like IVDD or joint issues): May have extended waiting periods, sometimes up to 6–12 months
Since Basset Hounds are prone to spinal and joint problems, it’s smart to check for breed-specific waiting periods in the fine print before signing up.
*States are gradually adopting a Model Law for pet insurance, aiming to standardize regulations, including uniform waiting periods. In California, Delaware, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Washington, Rhode Island, and Maryland, waiting periods are:
- Accidents: 0 days
- Illnesses: 14 days
- Cruciate Ligament Conditions: 30 days
- Routine Care: 0 days
Learn More About Waiting Periods
Waiting periods can be frustrating, especially if your Basset Hound is already dealing with a potential health concern.
Want to know which companies offer the shortest waiting times or even no waiting period at all for accidents?
Check out our guide to pet insurance with no waiting periods to see your options and how they compare.
Common Health Issues in Basset Hounds
Basset Hounds are charming and lovable, but their unique body structure and genetics can lead to some costly health concerns.
Here are some of the most common conditions diagnosed in Bassets, along with potential treatment costs:
Ear Infections
Bassets’ long, droopy ears trap moisture and debris, which makes them prone to chronic ear infections.
Cost: $100–$300 per vet visit, depending on severity and recurrence.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Their long backs put Bassets at high risk for spinal disc issues, which can cause pain, mobility problems, or even paralysis.
Cost: $3,000–$8,000+ for diagnostics, surgery, and non-surgical treatment.
Joint Issues (Hip and Elbow Dysplasia)
Hip dysplasia is a chronic condition where the head of the femur bone doesn’t fit correctly into the hip socket. Elbow dysplasia consists of abnormal development of the elbow joint due to defects in cartilage development, abnormal bone growth, or joint stress. These joint conditions affect mobility and comfort, especially in older or overweight dogs.
Cost: $1,500–$4,500+ for surgery; $50/month for supplements or medication.
Glaucoma and Other Eye Conditions
Droopy eyelids can cause eye issues in Bassets, including eye infections and glaucoma.
Cost: $2,000+ for medication and surgery.
Obesity-Related Problems
Bassets gain weight easily, which can lead to joint pain, diabetes, and heart disease.
Cost: It varies. Prescription diets may cost $50–$100/month, and vet monitoring may add more.
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus)
Bloat is when a dog’s stomach fills with gas or food and then twists, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and spleen. This is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
Cost: Up to $3,000+ for emergency surgery and treatment.
Skin Issues & Allergies
Skin conditions like seborrhea and allergies can lead to secondary skin infections for Bassets. Because of their heavy skin folds, it’s crucial to dry their skin thoroughly after bathing.
Cost: $200–$1,000+ annually for allergy testing, meds, and skin issue treatment.
Cancer (Lymphoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma)
Older Bassets may develop cancers like lymphoma or squamous cell carcinoma.
Cost: $3,700–$10,000+ for diagnostics, surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation.
Patellar Luxation
Bassets commonly suffer from patellar luxation, a condition where the kneecap moves out of position, causing instability and pain in the joint.
Cost: $1,500–$3,000 per knee if surgical correction is needed.
Arthritis
Arthritis, a common condition in aging Bassets, causes chronic joint pain and stiffness, especially in the hips and elbows.
Cost: $50–$500/month for long-term medications and supplements. Severe cases requiring surgery may lead to expenses in the thousands.
Is Pet Insurance Worth It for Basset Hounds?
Basset Hounds may be low to the ground, but their vet bills can climb high.
Their unique build and genetics make them more likely to experience chronic health conditions, especially as they age.
From IVDD and ear infections to eye issues, joint problems, and obesity-related complications, Bassets are prone to several costly concerns, many of which can become long-term.
That’s why pet insurance isn’t just a nice-to-have for Basset parents, it can be a game-changer.
By covering unexpected medical costs, pet insurance helps you focus on care, not cost.
Explore whether pet insurance is worth it for your dog and learn how to make the best decision based on your Basset’s unique needs.
5 Steps to Find the Best Basset Hound Insurance
Basset Hounds typically live 12 to 15 years and are prone to several chronic health issues, some of which can get expensive. Choosing the right insurance plan early on can help you stay ahead of surprise vet bills and give your dog the best care throughout their life.
Here’s how to find the best policy for your Basset:
- Research the company’s reputation.
Stick with providers that have a proven track record and strong customer support. - Understand Basset-specific health risks.
Look for plans that cover common issues like IVDD, glaucoma, and chronic ear infections. - Decide on coverage type.
Accident-only plans are cheaper, but accident and illness plans are more comprehensive and often better for Bassets. - Learn how claims are handled.
Check how quickly the company reimburses and whether they offer digital claims. - Compare multiple quotes.
Prices and coverage can vary widely. Get at least three quotes to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
Methodology
My team and I conduct extensive research on the most reputable pet insurance companies, analyzing customer feedback, policy changes, and industry trends. Our licensed insurance agent fact-checks everything, and we update our reviews year-round as insurers adjust premiums, coverage, exclusions, and customer service.
We rank each U.S. pet insurance provider using a 100-point scale, ensuring an unbiased breakdown of how companies perform in real-world claims.
Our Ranking Criteria
- Coverage & Exclusions (30%) – We analyze policies, exclusions, and age restrictions, rewarding companies with fewer coverage limitations.
- Pricing (15%) – We run thousands of sample quotes and factor in extra fees, discounts, and add-ons.
- Customer Service & Reputation (12%) – We review hundreds of customer experiences, assess the sign-up process, and evaluate claim support.
- Financial Strength (10%) – We examine A.M. Best & Demotech ratings to ensure companies can pay claims reliably.
- Customization Options (10%) – Providers with more deductible, reimbursement, and payout flexibility rank higher.
- Waiting Periods (5%) – Shorter illness & accident waiting periods result in a better score.
- Claim Processing (5%) – Companies offering fast reimbursements and direct vet pay score higher.
- Innovation (3%) – We recognize unique offerings and advanced technology in the industry.
Unbiased Pet Insurance Rankings: Putting Pets First
Unlike many review sites, we don’t sell rankings—every provider earns its spot based on real performance. Our in-depth comparisons help pet parents make informed decisions, while insurers use our reviews to improve their policies. We only recommend the best because that’s what our readers deserve.
