Best dog insurance in Australia | Ranking 2025
- Most comprehensive plan available.
- Includes dental illness cover.
- Covers hereditary conditions.
- Third-party liability included.
- Covers prescribed medications.
- Most comprehensive plan available.
- Includes dental illness cover.
- Covers hereditary conditions.
- Third-party liability included.
- Covers prescribed medications.
Pets On Me’s Deluxe Plan offers customizable reimbursement rates and per-event excesses. It provides comprehensive coverage for accidents and illnesses, including hereditary conditions with an annual sub-limit, and third-party liability. Dental illness cover is included for specific conditions like abscesses and gingivitis, contingent on annual vet dental checks. Preventive care is excluded. The plan's annual coverage limit is not specified in the provided documentation. Waiting periods include 21 days for illness and 180 days for cruciate, hereditary, and dental conditions.
Positioned as Pets On Me’s most extensive offering, the Deluxe Plan stands out for its inclusion of dental illness and hereditary condition coverage, often optional or excluded in basic plans. However, its strict exclusions for brachycephalic airway syndrome and the limitation on chronic conditions to the first year of diagnosis represent significant weaknesses compared to more inclusive market alternatives.
The insurer supports digital claims submission via its online portal. No advance payment service like Payvet is mentioned, nor is an average reimbursement processing time. Value-added services such as 24/7 vet helplines are not referenced.
This plan suits pet owners seeking broad accident and illness coverage, including specific dental and hereditary benefits, who are comfortable with defined exclusions and the necessity of regular veterinary dental examinations. It appeals to those who value the flexibility of selecting their reimbursement rate and excess.
- High $30,000 annual limit offers extensive cover.
- No sub-limits per condition, only annual cap.
- Excess applies once per condition for pet's life.
- Direct-to-vet claims possible for convenience.
- 24/7 in-app vet support for emergencies.
- High $30,000 annual limit offers extensive cover.
- No sub-limits per condition, only annual cap.
- Excess applies once per condition for pet's life.
- Direct-to-vet claims possible for convenience.
- 24/7 in-app vet support for emergencies.
Fetch Pet Insurance provides a comprehensive plan in Australia, featuring a $30,000 annual coverage limit without sub-limits on individual conditions. Policyholders customise their reimbursement rate (70%, 80%, or 90%) and excess, which applies once per condition for the pet's lifetime. The plan covers a broad spectrum of care, including accidents, illnesses, diagnostics, surgeries, hospitalisation, and prescribed medications. Dental injury and illness are covered under specific conditions, notably excluding routine cleanings and pre-existing issues. Preventive care is not included.
This plan's modularity allows precise customisation of financial contribution. Its high annual limit and absence of per-condition sub-limits position it strongly for extensive medical events in the Australian market. A key limitation is the exclusion of routine and preventive care, alongside strict dental and certain complementary therapy limitations.
Fetch operates as a fully digital, app-managed insurer. It offers 24/7 in-app vet support and facilitates digital claims submission, with pre-approvals available. Reimbursement processing is generally fast, as reported by customers, though no advance payment service is offered.
This plan suits pet owners prioritising substantial accident and illness coverage without per-condition caps. It appeals to those who value digital convenience and the flexibility to tailor their financial contribution, rather than seeking integrated routine care benefits.
- Illness cover included: Covers common pet illnesses.
- Hereditary conditions covered: Hereditary conditions covered with sub-limit.
- Third-party liability included: Protects against pet-caused damage/injury.
- Accident cover provided: Essential protection for unexpected injuries.
- Non-elective euthanasia: Covers end-of-life costs.
- Illness cover included: Covers common pet illnesses.
- Hereditary conditions covered: Hereditary conditions covered with sub-limit.
- Third-party liability included: Protects against pet-caused damage/injury.
- Accident cover provided: Essential protection for unexpected injuries.
- Non-elective euthanasia: Covers end-of-life costs.
Pets On Me's Classic Plan offers customizable reimbursement rates and per-event excesses, with the annual coverage limit not specified in the provided documentation. It comprehensively covers accidents and illnesses, including diagnostics, surgeries, hospitalizations, prescribed medications, and non-elective euthanasia. Hereditary conditions are covered, subject to an annual sub-limit and a 180-day waiting period. Third-party liability is also included. Preventive care and dental illness are explicitly excluded from this plan.
The plan's flexibility allows policyholders to select their preferred reimbursement percentage and excess structure. Positioned as a mid-tier offering, it provides robust accident and illness protection, distinguishing itself from basic accident-only plans. However, its lack of preventive care and dental illness coverage, coupled with specific exclusions for brachycephalic airway syndrome and limitations on chronic condition coverage (first occurrence/year only), represent notable weaknesses compared to competitors offering more comprehensive or integrated wellness benefits.
Pets On Me supports digital claims submission via an online portal or email. No advance payment service like Payvet is available, and average reimbursement processing times are not specified.
This plan suits pet owners prioritizing core accident and illness coverage, who appreciate policy customization for reimbursement and excess, and who manage preventive and dental care costs outside of their insurance. It is relevant for owners whose pets are not affected by brachycephalic conditions and who are comfortable with digital claim processes.
- Up to $30,000 annual claim limit.
- Pay only the gap with GapOnly™ claims.
- Most claims processed within 1 day.
- Free 24/7 VetAssist for advice.
- 10% monthly Woolworths grocery discount.
- Up to $30,000 annual claim limit.
- Pay only the gap with GapOnly™ claims.
- Most claims processed within 1 day.
- Free 24/7 VetAssist for advice.
- 10% monthly Woolworths grocery discount.
Woolworths Comprehensive Plus offers an 80% reimbursement rate with an annual coverage limit up to $30,000. Deductibles are variable, specified on the Certificate. The plan covers specified accidental injuries, including cruciate ligament conditions after a 6-month waiting period, and a broad range of illnesses such as cancer and gastrointestinal issues. Preventive care, like vaccinations and dental scaling, is available as an optional Routine Care add-on.
This plan provides lifetime cover if initiated before the pet's ninth birthday and maintained without lapse. A 21-day cooling-off period is standard. Positioned competitively, its main advantages include the substantial $30,000 annual limit, a unique 10% monthly Woolworths grocery discount, and complimentary 24/7 VetAssist access. The GapOnly® service facilitates on-the-spot claims at participating veterinary clinics. Weaknesses include the absence of multi-pet discounts and potential premium increases for older pets or after claims.
The insurer supports digital claims through its portal. Claims are processed efficiently, with 90% within one day and 98% within five days. This plan is relevant for pet owners seeking robust financial protection against significant veterinary costs, who appreciate integrated loyalty benefits, and prefer digital tools for policy management and immediate claim processing.
- Highly customizable plan options.
- High annual benefit limit up to $25,000.
- Direct payment to vet available.
- Excellent customer satisfaction and fast claims.
- No sub-limits on covered conditions.
- Highly customizable plan options.
- High annual benefit limit up to $25,000.
- Direct payment to vet available.
- Excellent customer satisfaction and fast claims.
- No sub-limits on covered conditions.
Petsy Pet Protection Plus offers a highly customizable plan for Australian pet owners, allowing selection of an annual benefit limit up to $25,000, a benefit percentage of 80% or 90%, and an annual excess from $0 upwards. Core coverage includes vet costs for injuries, illnesses, essential euthanasia, and emergency pet boarding. Preventive care is not included. Optional benefits for dental illness, behavioural conditions, and specialised therapies are available, though restricted to pets under 3 years old at policy inception.
The plan's modularity allows policyholders to tailor coverage to their budget and needs. Petsy facilitates direct vet payments for approved claims and offers a transparent pre-existing condition review process. Compared to competitors, its strength lies in extensive customisation and a strong digital claims experience. A notable limitation is the absence of integrated wellness benefits and the age restriction on optional cover for dental and behavioural issues.
Petsy operates as a digital-first insurer. Claims are submitted online, and customer reviews frequently highlight a fast, seamless process with direct vet payment capabilities. While an average processing time isn't specified, feedback indicates efficiency.
This plan suits pet owners who prioritize flexibility in coverage design, possess younger pets for optional benefit eligibility, and appreciate a streamlined digital claims experience. It is also relevant for those who prefer to manage routine and preventive care outside their insurance policy.
- Why take out pet insurance for a dog?
- What’s usually covered in dog insurance?
- What's not covered in dog insurance
- How much does pet insurance cost for a dog?
- Tips for choosing the right insurance for a dog
- FAQ
Why take out pet insurance for a dog?
In AU, veterinary costs for dogs have surged by over 15% since 2020, reflecting advances in care, the availability of specialist services, and a rising frequency of both routine and emergency treatments. Dogs in Australia face a host of medical risks, including breed-specific congenital conditions like hip dysplasia, aging complications such as arthritis, and sudden accidents ranging from tick paralysis to road trauma. With an average annual spend of $411 AUD on dog healthcare—excluding emergencies—owners are often surprised by the sheer scale of some procedures: even standard surgery can start at $400 AUD, while advanced treatments like ligament repairs regularly exceed $3,000 AUD. For senior dogs, costs escalate rapidly; chronic illness management or hospital stays can quickly strain household budgets.
Without insurance, every imaging scan, dental procedure, or overnight hospitalisation is an out-of-pocket expense. For example, an emergency stay at a specialist clinic often tops $1,500 AUD, and routine imaging (like an X-ray or MRI) can be anywhere from $250 to $2,000 AUD. In a country where 30% of dog owners already have pet insurance, the trend is clear: coverage isn’t a luxury, but a strategic financial safeguard that cushions families from life’s unpredictable—often expensive—veterinary moments.
| Treatment Type | Typical Cost (AUD) | With 80% Insurance Reimbursement (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation (annual) | $75 | $15 out-of-pocket |
| Vaccinations (annual) | $100 | $20 out-of-pocket |
| Surgery (e.g. ligament repair) | $3,000 | $600 out-of-pocket |
| Emergency/hospitalisation | $1,500 | $300 out-of-pocket |
| Dental procedure | $500 | $100 out-of-pocket |
| Chronic disease care (monthly) | $100 | $20 out-of-pocket |
| MRI or advanced imaging | $1,000 | $200 out-of-pocket |
What’s usually covered in dog insurance?
In Australia, pet insurance for dogs frequently reimburses for surgical procedures, which is vital as surgeries like cruciate ligament repairs can cost $2,000–$4,000 AUD and are especially relevant for active breeds prone to injury.
Hospitalisation and emergency care are also commonly covered, with emergency stays averaging around $1,500 AUD or more; these are crucial for dogs exposed to risks like snake bites, tick paralysis, or car accidents—risks particularly prevalent for outdoor or rural pets.
Ongoing chronic disease management, such as medications for arthritis or diabetes, is often included in comprehensive plans, which is essential for senior dogs who require regular blood tests and monthly treatments that can add up to $200 AUD per month.
Typical AU policies reimburse 70–90% of these vet bills, with caps ranging from $8,000 AUD for standard plans to $20,000 AUD for premium offers annually, and waiting periods are usually 48 hours for accidents and 30 days for illness.
| Name of coverage | 🟢 Essential / 🟠 Recommended | Coverage (Basic Plan) | Coverage (Premium Plan) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accident & emergency care | 🟢 Essential | Up to $8,000 AUD per year | Up to $20,000 AUD per year |
| Surgery (inc. cruciate ligament) | 🟢 Essential | 70% reimbursement, $2,000 AUD cap | 90% reimbursement, $4,000 AUD cap |
| Hospitalisation | 🟢 Essential | Included, annual vet fee limits | Included, higher limit |
| Chronic disease management | 🟢 Essential | Medications/visits up to $1,500 AUD | Up to $3,000 AUD |
| Imaging (X-ray, MRI, CT) | 🟢 Essential | $500 AUD/event, limit applies | $1,500 AUD/event |
| Preventive care (vaccines, checkups) | 🟢 Essential | Not covered or optional add-on | Included (annual limit: $500 AUD) |
| Dental treatment | 🟠 Recommended | Not covered/optional | Covered up to $1,000 AUD |
| Alternative therapies (physio etc.) | 🟠 Recommended | Optional, max $300 AUD | Included, max $1,000 AUD |
| Behavioural therapy | 🟠 Recommended | Not covered | Covered up to $500 AUD |
| Overseas/emergency travel cover | 🟠 Recommended | Not covered | Included |
Example of a Pet Insurance Claim for Surgery
A 6-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier needs surgery for a torn cruciate ligament, with the vet bill totalling $3,800 AUD. The owner's premium insurance covers 90% of eligible costs after a $200 AUD annual deductible: the deductible is subtracted first, so $3,800 - $200 = $3,600, and 90% of $3,600 ($3,240 AUD) is reimbursed. The owner pays only $560 AUD out-of-pocket ($200 deductible + 10% co-payment), and all remaining costs are absorbed by the insurer. This scenario demonstrates how even high vet bills can be almost fully covered, providing real financial relief.
What's not covered in dog insurance
Most Australian pet insurance plans for dogs include exclusions to keep premiums affordable, but they can differ between providers.
Commonly, expenses linked to pre-existing conditions (such as allergies, diabetes, or hip dysplasia already diagnosed before policy start) are not covered—a consideration especially important if your dog is older or has received prior treatments.
Many insurers also exclude hereditary and congenital issues, particularly in breeds predisposed to certain illnesses (e.g., Bernese Mountain Dogs and hip dysplasia), unless a waiting period and symptom-free window is met.
Some plans omit or limit routine and elective procedures (like desexing or dental cleans), while others may restrict coverage based on region (for example, working dogs in rural areas or those in tick-prone territories may have limits).
Legally, if your pet’s breed is banned in certain Australian states or not registered and microchipped as required, coverage may not apply. Exclusions, limits, and waiting periods all vary widely, so it’s always wise to request a detailed list from your chosen provider before enrolling.
| Grouped exclusion type | Typical examples in AU context | Notes for dog owners |
|---|---|---|
| Medical (pre-existing conditions) | Diabetes, arthritis, allergies diagnosed before cover | Very relevant for senior or rehomed dogs |
| Medical (hereditary/congenital) | Hip/elbow dysplasia, heart defects (breed-related) | Especially common in purebred breeds |
| Routine and elective procedures | Vaccinations, desexing, dental cleans | Often excluded or limited add-ons |
| Chronic disease management | Ongoing medication for pre-diagnosed conditions | Check policy for possible partial coverage |
| Age-related exclusions | New cover denied after 8–9 years old; limited claims for aged dogs | Coverage for older dogs can be restricted |
| Breed/legal restrictions | Cover not offered for banned breeds; unregistered or un-microchipped dogs | Varies by state and local law |
| Geographic/working dog exclusions | Policy limits for rural, farm, or working dogs; exclusion for region-specific diseases | Ask if rural lifestyle impacts coverage |
| Behavioural/experimental treatments | Non-vet recommended therapy, off-label or experimental drugs | Rarely included by any provider |
Always ask for a detailed list of exclusions before signing.
How much does pet insurance cost for a dog?
Certain criteria significantly influence monthly pet insurance premiums for a dog in Australia.
- Breed: Some breeds, like the Bernese Mountain Dog or Beagle, attract higher premiums due to hereditary conditions (e.g., hip dysplasia, heart issues). For example, premium cover for a Bernese Mountain Dog can cost $25–$35 AUD more per month than a Maltese of the same age.
- Age: Insurers typically raise prices with age; after 7–8 years, a dog’s premium may increase by 40–100%. In AU, premiums for senior pets often double past age 10 due to the higher risk of chronic and acute conditions.
- Pre-existing conditions: If your dog has already been diagnosed with a health issue at the time of policy application (like diabetes or arthritis), some insurers may either exclude coverage or load premiums by an additional 10–20%; new policies are sometimes declined for pets over 8–9 years old.
- Claim history: Premiums can rise by 15–20% after a significant claim (such as surgery or long-term hospitalisation), reflecting the higher ongoing risk assessed by insurers.
- Coverage level: Choosing premium policies with high reimbursement rates (up to 90%) and broader inclusions can increase monthly costs by $40–$60 AUD over basic plans.
- Location: Living in metro areas may slightly increase premiums due to higher veterinary costs in cities, whereas working or farm dogs in rural regions might have exclusions or risk loadings.
- Dog’s lifestyle and registration: Unregistered or non-microchipped dogs may not be eligible for cover; some providers offer discounts for desexed pets, and “indoor only” status can reduce rates by up to 10%.
| Breed | Age Group | Basic Plan (monthly) | Premium Plan (monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maltese | 1 year | $52 AUD | $102 AUD |
| Maltese | 9 years | $95 AUD | $165 AUD |
| Staffordshire Bull Terrier | 1 year | $61 AUD | $117 AUD |
| Staffordshire Bull Terrier | 10 years | $122 AUD | $196 AUD |
| Bernese Mountain Dog | 1 year | $80 AUD | $140 AUD |
| Bernese Mountain Dog | 8 years | $156 AUD | $227 AUD |
Tips for choosing the right insurance for a dog
| Tips | Impact on premium |
|---|---|
| Compare offers using HelloSafe | Spot policies that reimburse for breed-specific or chronic dog conditions. |
| Check premium jumps after age 7 | Many dog plans in AU can double premiums for senior pets over 8 years. |
| Opt for dental cover if your dog is 5+ | Dental procedures may cost up to $1,000 AUD, raising future premiums if left untreated. |
| Confirm hereditary/hip dysplasia coverage for large breeds | Bernese Mountain Dog and similar breeds may need special add-ons, impacting cost. |
| Choose “lifetime” policies early | Some providers restrict new lifetime coverage after your dog turns 8 or 9. |
| Ask about rural/outdoor dog risk loading | Insurance can be pricier or cover less for dogs on farms or with outdoor-only status. |
| Verify annual benefit caps for surgeries | Major surgeries like cruciate repair (up to $4,000 AUD) may exceed limits on basic plans. |
FAQ
What does dog insurance typically cover in Australia?
Most dog insurance policies cover a range of accidents and illnesses, including surgery, hospitalisation, and diagnostic tests. Some plans also include dental treatment, chronic condition management, and routine care as add-ons. Coverage levels and included services vary, so it’s worth comparing options.
How much does dog insurance cost, and what affects the price?
Premiums can range from $50 to $127 AUD per month based on your dog’s breed, age, and coverage type. Older dogs, certain breeds (like Bernese Mountain Dogs), and dogs with a history of medical issues usually have higher premiums. Choosing a broader plan also increases costs.
Are there any exclusions I should know about?
Yes, typical exclusions include pre-existing conditions, elective procedures, and some hereditary or breed-specific issues. Providers also often have waiting periods—such as 48 hours for accidents and 30 days for illness claims. Always review the policy to understand what’s not covered.
Can I insure my senior dog or a rescue?
You can usually insure senior dogs, but some insurers may limit new enrolments for dogs over 8 or 9 years old or apply higher premiums. Pre-existing conditions are often not covered for rescues and older dogs, so early enrolment helps maximise what you can claim.
Do I need to meet any legal requirements for the insurance to be valid?
Yes, in most states your dog must be microchipped and registered to both comply with local laws and be eligible for cover. Annual vaccinations and registration renewals are also expected by most insurers and councils.
What does dog insurance typically cover in Australia?
Most dog insurance policies cover a range of accidents and illnesses, including surgery, hospitalisation, and diagnostic tests. Some plans also include dental treatment, chronic condition management, and routine care as add-ons. Coverage levels and included services vary, so it’s worth comparing options.
How much does dog insurance cost, and what affects the price?
Premiums can range from $50 to $127 AUD per month based on your dog’s breed, age, and coverage type. Older dogs, certain breeds (like Bernese Mountain Dogs), and dogs with a history of medical issues usually have higher premiums. Choosing a broader plan also increases costs.
Are there any exclusions I should know about?
Yes, typical exclusions include pre-existing conditions, elective procedures, and some hereditary or breed-specific issues. Providers also often have waiting periods—such as 48 hours for accidents and 30 days for illness claims. Always review the policy to understand what’s not covered.
Can I insure my senior dog or a rescue?
You can usually insure senior dogs, but some insurers may limit new enrolments for dogs over 8 or 9 years old or apply higher premiums. Pre-existing conditions are often not covered for rescues and older dogs, so early enrolment helps maximise what you can claim.
Do I need to meet any legal requirements for the insurance to be valid?
Yes, in most states your dog must be microchipped and registered to both comply with local laws and be eligible for cover. Annual vaccinations and registration renewals are also expected by most insurers and councils.
