Takeaways
- Chihuahuas are one of the longest-living dog breeds and can be a 14 to 20-year commitment
- Unfortunately, Chihuahuas can be predisposed to many health conditions and congenital defects
- Some Chihuahua health conditions can be quite serious, requiring surgery and lengthy hospital stays with medical bills in the thousands
- Pet insurance can help cover these costs, some even up to 100%
- Monthly premiums for a Chihuahua can vary widely with puppies averaging $20 to $40 and older Chihuahuas averaging $50 and up
- The best insurance plans for Chihuahuas cover their most common conditions and do not have breed restrictions or upper age limits
Chihuahuas are one of the longest-living dog breeds and can be a 14 to 20-year commitment
Unfortunately, Chihuahuas can be predisposed to many health conditions and congenital defects
Some Chihuahua health conditions can be quite serious, requiring surgery and lengthy hospital stays with medical bills in the thousands
Pet insurance can help cover these costs, some even up to 100%
Monthly premiums for a Chihuahua can vary widely with puppies averaging $20 to $40 and older Chihuahuas averaging $50 and up
The best insurance plans for Chihuahuas cover their most common conditions and do not have breed restrictions or upper age limits
Pet Insurance For Chihuahuas
Small dogs with big hearts and even bigger personalities, Chihuahuas are a special breed with a history that dates back to ancient civilizations. Named for the state of Chihuahua, Mexico, it is believed that Chihuahuas are descendants of the extinct Techihi, a noble dog of the Aztec Empire around the 9th century.
Today’s Chihuahuas are known for being loyal lapdogs and the perfect apartment-dwelling, city pets. They can occasionally be spotted at cafes with their owners or hanging out of purses on city streets. They are one of the smallest dog breeds in the world but often make up for their size with their feisty and endearing personalities.
In addition to being one of the smallest dog breeds, Chihuahuas are also one of the longest-living with an average life expectancy of 14 to 16 years. However, it’s not unheard of for some to make it into their 20s! Getting pet insurance for your Chihuahua can be one of the best ways to ensure they stay healthy and have access to the best medical care throughout their golden years.
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Common Health Problems in Chihuahuas
Like many purebred dogs, Chihuahuas carry the risk of developing health problems that stem from their breed. They are also at risk for ailments common among toy breeds due to their extra small size.
Here are some of the most common Chihuahua health problems and their average treatment costs.
| Chihuahua Health Issues | Average Treatment Costs |
|---|---|
| Congestive Heart Failure | $1,000 to $2,500 (plus lifelong medication costs) |
| Patent Ductus Arteriosus(congenital heart valve defect) | $3,000 to $6,000 |
| Collapsing Trachea | $1,000 to $6,000 (plus lifelong medication costs) |
| Hydrocephalus(fluid buildup in the brain) | $5,000 to $10,000 (plus lifelong medication costs) |
| Luxating Patella (dislocated kneecap) | $1,000 to $5,000 |
| Eye Problems(glaucoma, cataracts, etc) | $300 to $3,000 |
| Dental Issues | $500 to $3,000 |
| Obesity (increases risk for heart disease, diabetes, and joint problems) | $100 to $2,500*(*costs associated with treating obesity-related diseases) |
| Hypoglycemia(low blood sugar) | $100 to $5000 (if hospitalization is required) |
The Best Pet Insurance For Chihuahuas
While there’s no special pet insurance plan just for Chihuahuas, there are some with more favorable coverage for common conditions of this breed. As with all insurance, pre-existing conditions are usually excluded, changes in coverage or eligibility can occur, and waiting periods typically apply. Check individual policies for more details.
ASPCA
The ASPCA Pet Insurance Complete Coverage Plan covers a wide range of accidents and illnesses. Coverage includes diagnostics, treatments, hospitalizations, surgeries, and more.
Reimbursement rates range from 70% to 90% after the deductible is met. Deductibles range from $100 to $500. Monthly premiums vary based on the individual pet but average premiums range from $40 to $80.
Why it’s great for Chihuahuas!
- No breed exclusions for hereditary conditions or congenital defects
- Covers many common Chihuahua conditions such as patent ductus arteriosus, tracheal collapse, eye disorders, and obesity
- Covers long-term chronic conditions like diabetes and cancer
- Prescription medications and foods are covered
- Covers alternative therapies such as acupuncture, laser therapy, and hydrotherapy for Chihuahuas with obesity, knee, or joint issues
- No extended waiting period for luxating patella coverage
- No upper age limits or reduced coverage based on age
Embrace
Embrace Pet Insurance covers accidents and illnesses in their standard plan. Coverage includes diagnostics, treatments, hospitalizations, surgeries, and more.
Reimbursement rates range from 70% to 90% after the deductible is met. Deductibles range from $100 to $1000. Monthly premiums vary based on the individual pet but averages range from $19 to $43 per month for a Chihuahua.
Why it’s great for Chihuahuas!
- Covers many common Chihuahua conditions such as patent ductus arteriosus, tracheal collapse, eye disorders, luxating patella, and obesity
- Includes specialty dental coverage for extractions and root canals which Chihuahuas often need
- Covers long-term chronic conditions like diabetes and cancer
- Covers pain management, physical therapy, and alternative therapies like acupuncture and laser for Chihuahuas with obesity, knee, or joint issues
Fetch
Fetch Pet Insurance covers accidents and illnesses in their standard plan. Coverage includes diagnostics, treatments, hospitalizations, surgeries, and more.
Reimbursement rates range from 70% to 90% after the deductible is met. Deductibles range from $250 to $500. Monthly premiums vary based on the individual pet but the average for a Chihuahua is $30 a month.
Why it’s great for Chihuahuas!
- No breed exclusions for hereditary conditions
- Covers common Chihuahua conditions such as eye disorders, dental issues, and luxating patella
- Covers long-term chronic conditions like diabetes and cancer
- Prescription medications and foods are covered
- Acupuncture and chiropractic care are covered for Chihuahuas with obesity, knee, or joint issues
- No upper age limits or reduced coverage based on age
Figo
Figo Pet Insurance covers many types of illnesses and injuries in their standard plan. There is also an option to add on wellness and preventative care coverage. Coverage includes diagnostics, treatments, hospitalizations, surgeries, and more.
Reimbursement rates can go up to 100% after the deductible is met. Deductible options range from $100 to $750. Premiums vary based on the chosen deductible and annual limit with options from $5,000 to unlimited.
Why it’s great for Chihuahuas!
- No breed exclusions for hereditary conditions or congenital defects
- Covers common Chihuahua conditions such as heart problems, obesity, eye disorders, and luxating patella
- Covers long-term chronic conditions like diabetes and cancer
- Covers dental illness and injury
- No upper age limits or reduced coverage based on age
- Highly customizable plan with options to add on wellness coverage
Pets Best
Pets Best offers a wide range of coverage under their Accident and Illness Plan. Coverage includes diagnostics, treatments, hospitalizations, surgeries, and more.
Reimbursement rates are 70% to 90% after the deductible is met. There are several options for deductibles and monthly premiums as well as add-on wellness coverage.
Why it’s great for Chihuahuas!
- No breed exclusions for hereditary conditions and congenital defects
- Covers common Chihuahua conditions such as heart problems, obesity, eye disorders, and luxating patella
- Covers long-term chronic conditions like diabetes and cancer
- Covers rehabilitation therapy for Chihuahuas with luxating patella or obesity
- No upper age limits or reduced coverage based on age
- Highly customizable plan with options to add on wellness coverage
- Option for direct-to-vet payment to reduce upfront out-of-pocket costs
Pumpkin
Pumpkin Pet Insurance covers accidents and illnesses in their standard plan. Coverage includes diagnostics, treatments, hospitalizations, surgeries, and more. There is also an option to add on preventative care coverage.
The reimbursement rate is 90% and there are multiple deductible options ranging from $100 to $1,000. Monthly premiums start at $30 and go up based on your pet’s individual needs and chosen deductible.
Why it’s great for Chihuahuas!
- No breed exclusions for hereditary conditions
- Covers common Chihuahua conditions such as patent ductus arteriosus, eye disorders, luxating patella, and dental disease
- Covers long-term chronic conditions like diabetes and cancer
- No upper age limits or reduced coverage based on age
- No extended waiting period for luxating patella coverage
Trupanion
Trupanion Pet Insurance provides a wide range of coverage for accidents and illnesses under their standard plan. Coverage includes diagnostics, treatments, hospitalizations, surgeries, and more.
Reimbursement is 90% of covered costs. A highly customizable plan offers owners many options for choosing a deductible and monthly premium.
Why it’s great for Chihuahuas!
- No breed exclusions for hereditary conditions
- Covers common Chihuahua conditions such as patent ductus arteriosus, collapsing trachea, obesity, eye disorders, luxating patella, and others
- Long-term chronic conditions like diabetes and cancer are covered
- No extended waiting period for luxating patella
- Option for direct-to-vet payment for reduced upfront owner expenses
Is Pet Insurance Worth It For Chihuahuas?
Since Chihuahuas carry a higher risk of developing some serious health conditions and are a long-living breed, pet insurance is a worthwhile investment for them. Congenital defects like patent ductus arteriosus, an abnormality of the heart that is unfortunately common in Chihuahuas, can require costly surgery and lengthy hospital stays.
Having your Chihuahua on a pet insurance plan can help dramatically offset their veterinary costs, especially later in life when they are more prone to certain ailments. Like many dogs, after age 10 Chihuahuas are more prone to heart, eye, knee, and dental problems.
When Should I Get Pet Insurance For My Chihuahua?
The earlier you can get your Chihuahua insured, the better! Unfortunately, no pet insurance covers pre-existing conditions. Enrolling your Chihuahua in pet insurance early on, preferably when they are still a puppy, is the best way to ensure maximum coverage!
Of course, if you adopted an older Chihuahua it’s still a good idea to get them on a plan. Just be prepared for any pre-existing conditions that might not be covered. It’s also a good idea to look for a plan with no upper age limits.
Factors That Affect Pet Insurance For Chihuahuas
When shopping around for pet insurance for your Chihuahua it’s important to get customized quotes. There are many factors that can affect premiums and coverage like age, breed, medical history, and location.
Once you’ve lined up some of the best options, be sure to check each policy for any additional breed-specific exclusions, caps on coverage for specific conditions, or additional waiting periods. Some insurance policies also carry age limits which can be an important factor to consider for Chihuahuas.
Chihuahuas are one of the longest-living dog breeds. Their average lifespan is 14 to 16 years but many have even reached their 20s! Some pet insurance plans have age limits with coverage capping out after a predetermined age, usually over 12 or 14. To ensure your Chihuahua will be covered for life, look for plans without age limits.
Unlimited claims, No credit checks, No upper age limit & Multiple pet discounts