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Best Grain-free Dog Food For Allergic And Sensitive Pups
Despite being popular, grain-free dog foods have earned a controversial reputation in recent years due to concerns that this diet could increase the risk of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a fatal heart condition in dogs. With this in mind, we decided to speak to veterinarians and other experts to help narrow down the best grain-free dog food options to keep your pup safe and healthy. With any choice for your dog, first consult your vet.
What to consider when buying grain-free dog food Why grain-free dog food is controversialThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration launched an investigation into grain-free dog food in 2018. In 2022, the FDA announced they would cease public updates about the link between grain-free dog food and DCM until there was more evidence.
Many licensed veterinarians like Dr. Nell Ostermeier, a spokesperson for Figo Pet Insurance, remain cautious about recommending grain-free dog foods, however. "These diets are pretty controversial in the veterinary world," she says. At the same time, if a dog struggles with stomach problems or itching constantly, it might benefit from a specialized diet, Ostermeier acknowledges. "There are dogs with true grain allergies or allergies to specific grains and, of course, veterinarians will recommend food without that grain in those cases."
IngredientsBefore going grain-free, have your dog assessed for grain allergies by your vet. This can typically be accomplished through blood or skin tests or an elimination diet. After an allergy has been established, it's crucial to choose a formula free of artificial flavors, colors and fillers when shopping for grain-free dog food, advises licensed veterinarian Dr. Bethany Hsia, founder of CodaPet. "Look for high-quality ingredients, such as real meat as the first ingredient," she adds. Real meat should be present in the largest amount by weight; the best grain-free foods tend to be higher in protein.
Or as Dr. Chyrle Bonk, veterinarian and pet care consultant at Dogster, puts it, "The healthiest food to feed your dog is a food with whole meat listed as at least the first ingredient, preferably the first two ingredients. After that, the remainder of the ingredients should be things you recognize, including whole grains and vegetables."
When the first ingredient is legumes or pulses — such as beans, peas or lentils — then it's unlikely that these foods meet your dog's nutritional needs. In fact, legumes have been linked with lower taurine levels in dogs, an essential amino acid for canine heart health. In contrast, proteins such as fish, shellfish, dark chicken and turkey are rich sources of taurine.
BreedBreed is also an important consideration. Research reveals that Golden Retrievers are predisposed to taurine deficiencies, while larger breeds such as Doberman pinschers, Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds, as well as Cocker Spaniels, are at an elevated risk for DCM. In these instances, veterinarians may advise against grain-free formulas.
PricePrice is a significant consideration because experts — including licensed veterinarian Dr. Grant Little, a veterinarian expert at JustAnswer — only recommend grain-free dog foods when pet owners cannot afford prescription-grade food. "If a pet has skin allergies and you can't do prescription food for allergies due to finances, grain-free diets are sometimes the best 'plan B'," he explains.
SafetyWhile the FDA has published a list of the top grain-free dog food brands linked with DCM, along with how many cases they're aware of, pet owners should always consult with a trained veterinarian before switching foods. Your vet will help you identify grain-free dog food options, including ones that meet the nutritional standards of The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) or the global nutrition guidelines of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), more common outside of the U.S.
Dr. Linda Simon, a U.K.-based veterinary surgeon and writer for Senior Tailwaggers, explains that these organizations don't directly approve of or endorse certain foods. Instead, they set recommendations for dog food manufacturers to assure consumers that their dog food is safe and nutritional. If brands adhere to them, they can put this on their labels. "Whether grain-free or not, I'd stick to a food that follows AAFCO guidelines," Simon advises. That said, "Just because it's not stated on their label or website doesn't mean a manufacturer doesn't follow AAFCO guidelines." So again, it is crucial to check with your veterinarian when changing your dog's food either way, especially when a specialized diet is involved.
Our top picks for the best grain-free dog food Best grain-free dog food for a sensitive stomach: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain-Free Sweet Potato & Venison RecipeBest for a sensitive stomach
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain-Free Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe
Regarding dog food for sensitive stomachs, it's best to look for grain-free dog food with fewer ingredients. Natural Balance offers many limited-ingredient, grain-free blends. Natural Balance also has a customer support number with veterinarian technicians for questions, and it is one of Little's favorite grain-free options. "They seem to do better with quality control, and they have lots of flavors that can be good options for dogs with food allergies," he says.
Specifications:Dogs with grain allergies that cause digestive distress should stick to dog food formulas with limited ingredients, such as Natural Balance.
Get it here: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Reserve Grain-Free Sweet Potato & Venison Recipe
Best grain-free wet dog food: Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Natural Adult Wet Dog FoodBest wet dog food
Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food
There tend to be more grain-free options for wet dog food because meat is typically the primary ingredient, not grain. While not all dogs need wet food for adequate nutrition, there are benefits to feeding it to dogs. For one, additional moisture can increase a dog's water intake, and though it may seem more decadent, wet food can be helpful for overweight dogs because it's lower in carbs and less dense calorically. On the other hand, it can be less convenient compared to dry food and more expensive.
Hsia suggests Blue Buffalo's grain-free formula because of their high-quality ingredients. "In addition, it contains no artificial preservatives or flavors," notes Hsia, who has fed her dogs this formula. "For dogs that prefer wet food, Blue Buffalo is an ideal grain-free option."
Specifications:Wet food can benefit a dog's health, and Blue Buffalo sources high-quality ingredients for grain-free formulas that support their overall nutrition.
Get it here: Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain-Free Natural Adult Wet Dog Food
Best grain-free dog food for skin allergies: Hill's Science Diet, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & SkinBest for skin allergies
Hill's Science Diet, Grain Free Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Chicken & Potato Recipe, 24 lb. Bag
Of all dog food for allergies listed, Little thinks Hill's Science is good for skin allergies and "probably the best of the ones listed and one of the better bang for your buck." The company claims to meet or exceed AAFCO standards on its website, and it is known for its research-backed and specialized formulas. "I like just about any product from Science Diet," Bonk adds. "They're the tried-and-true veterinary-approved diet because they're effective and often come at a price point that most clients can afford."
Specifications:Hill's Science Diet grain-free dry dog food is a favorite among veterinarians, but like many specialized formulas, not every dog will react the same way.
Get it here: Hill's Science Diet, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Best grain-free dog food for large breeds: Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free RecipeBest for large breeds
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe
The challenge for feeding larger dog breeds is maintaining a diet high in protein but low in fat. When there is a grain allergy, it can be even more difficult to find food to fit a dog's needs. In these instances, Hsia relies on Taste of the Wild dog food. "Taste of the Wild High Prairie food is suggested for dogs who have sensitivities to grains — or require a grain-free diet due to health issues — but still want a variety of protein sources and nutrient-dense ingredients," says Hsia, who has also personally used this brand with her pets.
Specifications:It can be difficult to meet larger dogs' nutritional needs when they have a grain allergy, but Taste of the Wild's high-protein formulas can be a good option.
Get it here: Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canine Grain-Free Recipe
Best grain-free senior dog food: Orijen Senior Dry Dog Food, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Senior DogsBest senior dog food
ORIJEN Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, 23.5-lb bag
Although Simon often suggests the Pooch & Mutt Senior formula to her patients, the U.K.-based brand is hard to track down in the U.S. Fortunately, Orijen Senior is an adequate substitute for pet owners in the U.S. "These are both brands I have personal experience with and which owners are typically happy with, thanks to their high palatability," she says. It's important to note that Orijen Senior has a protein content higher than average. This can be healthy for some dogs, but owners of aging dogs with liver disease or renal failure should opt for a lower protein option, such as Natural Balance, but only after checking with their vets.
Specifications:Feeding an aging dog with grain allergies can be difficult, but Orijen's Senior formula can support their changing diets.
Get it here: Orijen Senior Dry Dog Food, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Senior Dogs
Best grain-free dog food for small breeds: Nature's Recipe Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe Dry Dog FoodBest for small breeds
Nature's Recipe Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Dry Dog Food, 12-lb
Simon recommends Nature's Recipe for smaller breeds because it's a "sensible diet choice with good quality ingredients and reasonable fat and protein contents." Unlike other brands, such as Orijen, it has a lower protein content, which tends to be better for smaller, less active dogs. The kibble is also smaller and easier for tinier breeds to chew. Finally, Simon notes that at approximately $30 for a 12-pound bag, it is one of the more affordable grain-free options available.
Specifications:Smaller dogs need specially formulated kibble, and if they have a grain allergy, Nature's Recipe is a healthy and affordable option.
Get it here: Nature's Recipe Small Breed Grain-Free Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe Dry Dog Food
Best grain-free salmon dog food: Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Recipe with Real Salmon Natural Dry Dog FoodBest salmon dog food
Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Adult Grain-Free Real Salmon Recipe Dry Dog Food, 20-lb bag
Sometimes dogs can have allergies to ingredients other than grains, and limited ingredient formulas, like Instinct's grain-free recipe, can help. "If a dog develops food allergies, it's more commonly attributed to the protein source, mainly chicken, beef or egg," Bonk explains. "Instinct makes great foods with high-quality ingredients and minimal processing." But Bonk notes that the high price tag makes the brand less of an option for pet owners on a budget. That said, if your dog is reacting badly to other grain-free blends, switching to the Instinct brand may be the correct "instinct."
Specifications:When determining what your dog is allergic to, salmon-based grain-free options like Instinct's Limited Ingredient dog food, might help pet owners and vets get answers.
Get it here: g Food
Best affordable grain-free dog food: Purina ONE Grain-Free Natural High Protein Dry Dog Food Formula True Instinct with Real Beef with Added Vitamins, Minerals and NutrientsBest affordable
Purina ONE SmartBlend True Instinct Grain-Free Real Beef Dry Dog Food, 12.5-lb bag
The options are often limited when it comes to safe and affordable grain-free dog food. However, Purina ONE offers a high-protein, grain-free option. "It has quality ingredients and is affordable," Bonk says. "Most dogs do well with it." The potential issue with prioritizing cost is that your dog may have other allergies besides grains, which could be why some consumers report that their dogs developed skin rashes and stomach problems after switching to this food. Remember, pet owners should always talk to their veterinarian first before switching foods.
Specifications:Grain-free formulas can be expensive for pet owners on a budget, but Purina ONE's grain-free, high-protein kibble can be an affordable option for some dogs.
Get it here: Purina ONE Grain-Free Natural High Protein Dry Dog Food Formula True Instinct with Real Beef with Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients
Best grain-free chicken-free dog food: Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Dog FoodBest chicken-free dog food
Kirkland Signature Nature s Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Dog Food 35 lb.
Feeding a dog with a grain allergy can be hard. But feeding a dog with a grain allergy and an allergy to an animal protein used in most affordable dog foods? Well, that has to be close to impossible. The good news is that brands like Kirkland offer a safe, limited-ingredient option. "I think the ingredients are great — nice whole foods and salmon is a wonderful source of omega fatty acids for skin and coat health, while sweet potato is a nice source of slow-releasing energy," Simon points out. "They've added several strains of probiotics, as well as berries for their antioxidants."
Specifications:Finding a grain-free dog food that accommodates a chicken allergy can take some creativity, but Kirkland's quality ingredients can help many sensitive dogs.
Get it here: Kirkland Signature Nature's Domain Salmon Meal & Sweet Potato Dog Food
Best organic grain-free dog food: Tender & True Organic Chicken & Liver Recipe Grain-Free Canned Dog FoodBest organic
Tender & True Organic Chicken & Liver Recipe Grain-Free Canned Dog Food
For pet owners who think finding healthy, grain-free dog food is difficult, good luck finding ethically sourced grain-free dog food. After Castor & Pollux — one of the few organic lines of dog food — was discontinued recently, organic grain-free dog food has become even harder to track down. The best bet for conscientious dog owners is Tender & True, Simon advises. Although not every formula is certified, they have several organic options, including canned dog food and kibble for small breeds.
Specifications:There are very few organic grain-free dog foods on the market, but Tender & True is worth asking your veterinarian about.
Get it here: Tender & True Organic Chicken & Liver Recipe Grain-Free Canned Dog Food
Best grain-free dog food for puppies: Orijen Puppy Dry Dog Food, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for PuppiesBest for puppies
ORIJEN Puppy Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food, 13-lb bag
Simon is usually reluctant to recommend grain-free foods to puppies because most younger dogs should eat some grain. "Most food allergies develop later in life," she explains. Still, in rare instances when there is prolonged digestive distress or skin problems that other interventions haven't helped, she makes an exception with Orijen Puppy. The high protein formula contains "WholePrey" ingredients that growing dogs need, like "omega fatty acids, which are important for brain development in the younger dog." Orijen offers many grain-free formulas to accommodate each stage of life, compared to other brands with only one or two grain-free options.
Specifications:Although most puppies should eat a grain-inclusive diet, Orijen Puppy can meet your growing dog's nutritional needs.
Get it here: Orijen Puppy Dry Dog Food, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food for Puppies
Best grain-free high protein dog food: Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food Real Chicken & Sweet Potato RecipeBest high protein dog food
Merrick Real Chicken + Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food, 22-lb bag
There are several reasons why some dogs may require more protein than others. Puppies, larger breeds and working dogs — pups in charge of practical tasks — all need a little more protein compared to smaller, older and more sedentary dogs. Most grain-inclusive dry kibble contains about 18% protein, whereas Merrick's grain-free dry dog food contains nearly twice that, at 34%. "Merrick grain-free dog food is rich in protein and contains other superfoods," Hsia says. Other superfoods, like blueberries, add antioxidant properties to the formula, and supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin support healthy cartilage in the hips and joints.
Specifications:Larger and more active dogs benefit from higher-protein diets, and if they have a grain allergy Merrick may be a suitable kibble option.
Get it here: Merrick Grain-Free Dry Dog Food Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe
How we selected the best grain-free dog foodSince the topic of grain-free is still a sensitive and evolving one in the veterinary world, we relied on the existing research, along with the cautious recommendations of experts. We also considered customer reviews.
Benefits of grain-free dog food for dog healthBefore DCM concerns, grain-free diets were initially considered healthier because some brands use too much grain and filler in dry dog food, Ostermeier says. "This can trigger all kinds of medical issues in dogs, especially involving the digestive system and skin health," she explains.
This can still be true when there is a grain allergy, but before assuming these upsides apply to your pup, consult with a veterinarian or another specialist, like a veterinary nutritionist, to confirm going grain-free will improve their diet. "Just simply avoiding grains isn't going to ensure that they are feeding their dog in the best way possible," Ostermeier notes.
How grain-free formulas meet the dietary needs of dogsMeeting the nutritional needs of dogs is complicated with a grain-free diet, so vets like Little only recommend them when there is a grain allergy present and when prescription food is not an option.
While grains do not contain taurine specifically, they contain precursor amino acids that are synthesized to make taurine. To make up for the absence of grains, dog foods need another source of taurine or taurine precursors, like fish, shellfish, chicken or turkey. "The animal protein itself doesn't make a difference, but more the ratio of how much legumes, peas and potatoes are used," Little adds.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) How do I switch my dog to grain-free dry dog food?The one noncontroversial aspect of grain-free diets among experts is how to switch a dog from a grain-inclusive brand — and that should always be a careful transition to avoid unnecessary digestive distress.
"Start by mixing small amounts of the new grain-free food with their existing diet and gradually increase the proportion over several days," Hsia suggests. "This gradual transition can help prevent digestive upset and allow your dog's system to adjust to the new diet."
Is it really healthier for a dog to eat grain-free?It is only healthier to feed a dog grain-free food when they have a legitimate allergy to grains and you do not have access to prescription food. Likewise, it is only healthier to feed a dog grain-free dog food if the licensed veterinarian treating them approves this diet change.
Although the link between grain-free dog food and heart disease has yet to be proven, veterinarians are divided on whether it's the healthiest and safest option. For instance, vets like Little rarely recommend grain-free foods, whereas veterinarians outside the U.S., like Simon, seem more open to alternative approaches to nutrition.
Experts like Ostermeier fall somewhere in the middle and suggest feeding dogs some grains unless there is a grain allergy. "It is best to avoid extremes, so going from too much grain to no grain at all is kind of extreme."
Do vets recommend grain-free dog food?Vets like Little don't recommend grain-free dog foods unless all other options are ruled out because "most nutritionists that I have talked to don't recommend them due to the risk," he says.
Ostermeier agrees that grain-free diets are not popular in the veterinary world, but they are not unheard of either. "Dog owners need to find a vet who is willing to approach nutrition in a way that aligns with their approach to nutrition," she explains. "If they want to discuss feeding strategies that are considered 'alternative,' it is best to consult with an integrative veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist."
What is the healthiest food to feed your dog?Most experts agree that the healthiest dog food meets AAFCO or WSAVA standards and is recommended by a licensed veterinarian who treats your pet. In addition to these priorities, the healthiest dog food is one that your pet tolerates without skin allergies or digestive distress. The latter is where grain-free dog food might be helpful. If you suspect your dog may have a grain allergy, ask your vet about allergy testing.
If your dog is not allergic to grains, the healthiest diets are three parts protein to one part carbohydrate, or two parts protein to one part carbohydrate, Ostermeier suggests. The exact ratio depends on breed, size and life stage. "I also recommend at least 50% in high moisture food," Ostermeier says, such as canned or wet food. "I prefer my patients to eat formulated gently cooked foods, such as the ones found in Chi Dog diets, because they are simple, healthy, balanced and high in moisture."
Considering this, incorporating some grain-free food into your dog's diet makes sense, and wetter may be better.
The Best Pet Insurance For Older Dogs (2024)
Is Senior Dog Pet Insurance Different From Insurance For Younger Dogs?While pet insurance policies generally cover the same items regardless of a dog's age, getting coverage for an older dog can be more expensive and limited in scope. As dogs age, they are more likely to develop pre-existing conditions that most pet insurance plans will not cover.
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Monthly premiums tend to increase with a pet's age at the time of enrollment since older dogs statistically have higher veterinary costs. Enroll your pet as early as possible to avoid paying higher rates for the same coverage.
So, although the basics of coverage stay the same, an owner insuring an 8-year-old dog can expect to pay a higher rate and have more exclusions for medical issues that have already occurred versus someone who insured their puppy.
Top 5 Senior Dog Pet Insurance Companies of 2024Here are the best dog insurance companies for older dogs:
Compare Pet Insurance Companies for Older DogsUse the table below to compare monthly costs, BBB ratings, waiting periods and star ratings of the top senior pet insurance companies:
Other Providers We Considered But Did Not RankWe considered multiple providers in our review of the best pet insurance companies for senior dogs. See why the following companies did not make our list of the top senior dog insurers.
Healthy PawsDuring the Healthy Paws quote process, we noticed only one plan option available for a 10-year-old dog with a fixed deductible and low reimbursement rate. Healthy Paws also does not enroll new pets older than 14 years. Although it offers unlimited annual coverage, we think Healthy Paws is a better value for younger dogs.
FigoFigo offers a variety of plan options for senior dogs and no upper age limit for new enrollments. However, it does not include exam fees and prescription foods in the base plan. Instead, pet owners have to purchase coverage as an additional add-on to their base plan. The add-on cost is not fixed, but is based on overall premium cost — the more expensive your premium, the higher the cost to provide your pup with complete coverage.
WagmoWagmo's premiums for senior pets are reasonable, but the company only enrolls new pets younger than 16 years. It also offers limited options to customize coverage and excludes coverage for hydrotherapy and dental surgeries, services that senior dogs may require for the treatment of arthritis or dental disease.
When is a Pet Considered a Senior?According to VCA Animal Hospital, small dogs are considered seniors at age 11, medium-sized dogs at age 10 and large dogs around age seven. No matter when your dog is technically considered "old," it will become more prone to weakness, illness and injury as it ages, and will thus require more veterinary care.
If your senior dog is not currently insured, consider enrolling in a policy before it begins experiencing health problems. Remember, no pet insurance company will cover pre-existing conditions, including previous symptomatic illnesses or injuries and diagnosed or treated conditions. The sooner you enroll your dog in an insurance plan, the more likely your provider will cover new and unexpected conditions.
How Much Does Pet Insurance for Senior Dogs Cost?On average, pet insurance for senior dogs costs $327, according to our research, which averaged the premium of 11 different pet insurance plans for a 12-year-old medium mixed-breed dog.
Several factors can affect your senior dog's monthly pet insurance premium, including:
The following table ranks the cheapest pet insurance for older dogs, based on quotes we received for an 8-year-old medium mixed-breed male dog, for a pet insurance plan in each state that has a $5,000 annual limit, $250 deductible, and 80% reimbursement rate:
Rank Company Monthly Cost #1 Nationwide $22 #2 Figo $28 #3 ManyPets $43 #4 Pets Best $46 #5 Liberty Mutual $49 #6 Healthy Paws $51 #7 Lemonade $54 #8 ASPCA Pet Health Insurance $57 #9 Allstate $59 #10 MetLife $59 Do Pet Insurance Premiums Increase as Dogs Age?Pet insurance premiums increase as dogs get older because older pets are more likely to develop new illnesses with age. If your pet is enrolled from a young age, you will likely start to see your premiums go up when your dog reaches eight to 10 years of age. To offset rising premiums, senior pet owners may choose to adjust their plan's reimbursement rates, annual limits or add-ons.
To show the cost differences as a dog ages, we gathered quotes from Spot for an accident and illness plan with a $10,000 annual limit, $500 deductible and 80% reimbursement rate. We based our quotes on a medium-sized, mixed-breed dog living in Colorado Springs, Colo.
Compare top pet insurance providers based on premium costs we pulled for dogs of varying ages.
Provider Cost To Insure a Puppy Cost To Insure an Adult Dog Cost To Insure a Senior Dog Spot $13–$134 $17–$173 $40–$404 Embrace $23–$144 $25–$156 $42–$257 Pets Best $11–$65 $13–$75 $36–$208 ASPCA Pet Health Insurance $16–$80 $22–$102 $50–$240 Fetch $2–$40 $30–$75 $101–$265 Wagmo $24–$48 $38–$76 $56–$110 Healthy Paws $32–$70 $47–$61 $124 Figo $14–$92 $19–$120 $25–$305 How We Gathered Cost DataWe used the quote tools on each provider's website to determine the monthly premium costs for a medium-sized, mixed-breed male dog living in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The above ranges represent the lowest and highest coverage amounts available from each company, with wider ranges corresponding to more customization options. We used benchmarks of 6 months old to represent puppies (six weeks to one year), 5 years old to represent adult dogs (years one to 10) and 10 years to represent senior dogs (10 years and older).
How to Save Money on Pet Insurance for Senior DogsPet insurance for senior dogs will be more expensive than coverage for young pups. However, there are ways to find an affordable premium without minimizing your four-legged friend's access to coverage.
Consult a VeterinarianYour veterinarian can help you determine which insurance plan best fits your pet's needs without exceeding your budget. For example, a vet can help you pinpoint common conditions your pet's breed faces and ensure the plan you buy includes the necessary coverage.
Consider an Accident-Only PlanGiven the limited nature of the coverage, accident-only plans are cheaper than accident and illness coverage. While this option is worth considering, it is also important to find adequate coverage. An accident-only plan covers accidental injuries from chewing cords, falling from heights, eating poisonous houseplants and more at a lower cost. However, older dogs may be more susceptible to illnesses and therefore benefit from an accident and illness plan.
Adjust Your Pet's Coverage LevelsMost pet insurers allow you to customize components of your policy, enabling you to adjust the amount of coverage and policy cost. Selecting a higher deductible, lower reimbursement rate or lower annual coverage limit can help lower policy costs — but make sure you do not drastically limit the plan's effectiveness.
Review Available DiscountsSome providers offer discounts to reduce your premium if you qualify. Discounts alone may not be a reason to switch plans but can offer a small financial break if you meet eligibility conditions. Common discounts include bundling pet insurance with other policies, enrolling multiple pets in coverage and having served in the military. Pet insurance discounts often range from 5% to 10% each.
Compare Quotes for Similar PlansWhen looking for pet insurance, it's important to remember that every plan has its own costs, coverage options and features. Take the time to research which provider would best suit your pet's needs. We suggest obtaining quotes from at least three of the top pet insurance providers on our list before making a decision.
Negotiate Your Pet's Veterinary BillVeterinary fees are designed to cover operational expenses and ensure the team members caring for your pet are compensated appropriately. Veterinary fees are meticulously determined and rarely negotiable, but you may be able to trim down the bill by discussing which services you should prioritize and which can wait before you agree to estimates or treatment plans.
What Types of Pet Insurance are Available for Senior Dogs?Generally, there are three types of pet insurance plans: accident-only, accident and illness and wellness plans. While pet owners can consider any of these plans for older dogs, some providers may have age limits that restrict enrollment eligibility.
Accident-Only PlansAccident-only coverage is the most basic and cost-effective option. These plans cover accidents and physical injuries that result in unexpected vet bills. Coverage excludes routine care and pre-existing conditions. Accident-only plans typically cover vet bills related to events such as:
Dogs of any age, including seniors, can sustain an accidental injury. The most common injuries in senior pets are related to falls, which can occur more often because of arthritic joints, weakened muscles, or poor eyesight and depth perception. Senior pets with an increased appetite resulting from a disease or medication may be more likely to ingest foreign or toxic substances.
Accident and Illness PlansAccident and illness coverage is the most common and comprehensive pet insurance plan. In addition to accidental injuries, these policies cover acute and chronic illnesses common in senior pets. Most of the plans on our list are comprehensive, but each comes with a list of exclusions to carefully consider before purchasing.
Accident and illness plans typically cover vet bills related to the following conditions:
Senior dogs are more likely than younger dogs to develop illnesses and diseases. Common age-related diseases in dogs include arthritis, hip dysplasia, cancer, dental disease, kidney disease and endocrine disorders.
Pet Insurance Wellness PlansBecause pet health insurance does not cover routine care, many companies offer a wellness add-on that provides an allowance for preventive care for an extra monthly cost. This additional coverage is different from traditional pet insurance but can help you manage the cost of expected veterinary care like vet checkups, vaccinations, and flea and heartworm medication. These plans typically add $10 to $25 to your monthly pet insurance premium.
Common Health Problems for Senior DogsYour dog could encounter any number of health problems due to its age, genetics or a combination of both. According to the American Kennel Club, the most common conditions older dogs develop include the following:
Condition Covered by Pet Insurance? Arthritis Yes, but some treatments may require add-on coverage Cancer Yes, but may exclude clinical trials or experimental treatments Cognitive decline Yes Kidney disease Yes, but typically excludes kidney transplants Obesity Coverage varies; prescription diets may require an add-on Vision loss Coverage varies; some plans may exclude congenital or genetic causesOther common diseases seen in older dogs include diabetes, urinary incontinence and
dental disease. The American Veterinary Medical Association found that almost 50% of dogs over age 10 will develop cancer at some point in their lives. Cancer diagnosis and treatments (such as radiation and chemotherapy) can be incredibly costly, so it's wise to get a pet insurance policy before your dog gets ill.
Breeds and Common IllnessesThe chart below outlines popular dog breeds along with common illnesses each type of dog could experience in its lifetime. Coverage for each condition will vary by pet insurance provider.
Breed Common Illnesses German shepherd Hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy and chronic superficial keratitis Golden retriever Cancer, heart defects and pigmentary uveitis Labrador retriever Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and exercise-induced collapse Bichon Frise Bladder conditions, luxating patellas and allergies Pug Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, hip dysplasia and pigmentary keratitis French bulldog Intervertebral disc disease, allergies and brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome Is Insurance for My Older Pet Worth It?As your dog's age increases, so does the amount of money required to maintain its health and overall care. Finding the right pet insurance provider for you and your senior dog can help cover future costs and alleviate financial worries if your pet faces costly treatments.
If you feel you are late in insuring your senior dog, enrolling before its health declines can still be beneficial. A pet insurance plan with no upper age limit and a vast range of coverage is ideal for your dog. We recommend getting quotes from each provider on our list so you can make the best choice based on coverage and cost.
Frequently Asked Questions About Senior Dog Pet Insurance How does senior dog pet insurance work?Unlike human health insurance, with pet insurance your provider reimburses your costs after you've already paid. Following your pet's vet visit, you'll file a claim with your pet insurance provider. Once it's approved, your provider will reimburse you for a percentage of the vet bill (usually via direct deposit or check).
Is senior dog pet insurance worth it?Yes, senior dog pet insurance is worth it. While pet insurance won't cover your older dog's current ailments, it will cover care needed in the future. Give yourself the peace of mind that your dog will be protected if it needs serious veterinary care. You'll also be protected financially by receiving reimbursement for some health care expenses.
Do I need medical records from my vet for an older dog?You will have to confirm whether your insurance provider requires a pet's medical records for enrollment. Some require a vet exam, while others will ask that a vet exam is completed at some point within the first 12 months of your policy. Check with your selected provider.
How We Ranked the Best Pet Insurance Companies for Senior PetsMany pet insurance companies offer high-quality coverage options, but not every policy is suitable for senior pets with specific medical concerns. We used the following factors to inform our ranking and review of the top pet insurance providers for senior pets.
Best Cheap Pet Insurance Companies Of June 2024
Best Price: Pets Best Pet Insurance
Pets Best Pet Insurance
Insider's RatingA five pointed star A five pointed star A five pointed star A five pointed star A five pointed star
4.89/5 ProsIf you're looking for pet insurance at a cheap rate, Pets Best Pet Insurance has some of the lowest prices in the industry. You can go to any licensed veterinarian. However, it should be noted that in Business Insider's staff experiences with Pets Best policies, the reimbursement rate is also applied to your deductible.
So if you had a $500 deductible with 90% reimbursement, a $500 claim would leave you with another $50 left on your deductible, with charges applied based on the 90% reimbursement rate. This is not unusual, but it should factor into your budget and policy choices.
Pets Best offers three types of plans: accident-only, accident and illness, and a wellness plan. With highly customizable options, you can further lower your rate. Plus, the insurer doesn't have an age gap on pet insurance.
Unfortunately, if you're looking for alternative treatments like herbal and holistic tre
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