The Bernese Mountain Dog, or Berner, is known for its big, fluffy, fun personality. These gentle giants make fantastic family dogs, but they can be quite a financial investment due to their potential health problems. Some concerns include allergies, eye, thyroid, and blood disorders, gastric torsion, CCL ruptures, hip dysplasia, and more. Caring for your Berner’s health can involve a lot of stress and a hefty price tag. Fortunately, pet insurance can ease some of that burden by covering a significant portion of your dog’s vet expenses.
With my decade of experience in pet insurance and knowledge of breed-specific health concerns, I’ll guide you through the typical health issues that BMDs encounter and their treatment costs. Additionally, I’ll assist you in determining whether pet insurance is the right choice for your furry friend and provide my top recommendations for plans that fit your needs perfectly.
Best Pet Insurance For Bernese Mountain Dogs
Pet insurance requirements differ for purebred dogs like Bernese Mountain Dogs. I’ve researched thoroughly to find the best insurance options for this breed. I considered several variables when choosing these insurers. These factors include coverage and benefits, breed-related health conditions, a dog’s age, premium costs, and other crucial elements to assist you in making an informed decision.
Best For Customizable Plans: Pets Best
- Policy Options: Accident-Only, Accident & Illness, Wellness
- Annual Deductible Options: $50, $100, $200, $250, $500, $1,000
- Annual Payout Options: $5,000, Unlimited
- Reimbursement Options: 70%, 80%, 90%
Why I Picked Pets Best
Pets Best provides several types of insurance policies, including accident-only and three different accident and illness plans. Each offers distinct advantages for your Berner’s health needs. You can choose from various deductible, reimbursement, and annual payout options to tailor your plan to suit your budget. Additionally, if you want to get reimbursed for routine expenses, you can include a wellness plan with your Pets Best accident and illness policy. With its easy-to-navigate interface and extensive choices, finding an ideal plan is simple.
Expert Price Analysis
When comparing the quotes I ran for Bernese Mountain Dogs,I found that Pets Best premiums were competitively priced for puppies and young adults.However,for Berners aged five and older,prices were above average in many cases — especially with high coverage (unlimited payout,90% reimbursement,and $100 deductible).
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| One of few providers to offer an accident-only plan | Processes claims more slowly than most (18–30 days) |
| Multiple deductible,reimbursement,and annual payout options | Must upgrade plans for vet exam fee and complementary care* coverage |
| Save 5% on policies for multiple pets | Accident and illness plans have 6-month waiting period for CCL coverage (excluded in accident-only plan) |
| Includes coverage for curable pre-existing conditions once they’ve healed | |
| 14-day waiting period for elbow/hip dysplasia is much shorter than most insurers | |
| 3-day accident waiting period | |
| Offers 2 wellness plan add-ons | |
| No age limitations for older pups |
In-Depth Review Of Pets Best
See my in-depth review of Pets Best to learn more about its multiple plan and customization choices,coverage and exclusions,waiting periods,and other details.
Best All-Inclusive Policies:Fetch
- Policy Options:Accident &Illness,Wellness
- AnnualDeductible Options:$250,$300,$400,$500,$700
- Annual Payout Options:$5,000,$10,000,$15,000
- Reimbursement Options:70%,80%,90%
Why I Picked Fetch
Fetch offers inclusive policies that cover all your Berner’s needs without extra costs. Each policy covers veterinary exam fees,dental illness care,complementary treatments,behavioral therapies,and C-sections. These benefits often come with high upgrade fees from other insurers or are unavailable. Fetch also covers curable pre-existing conditions after a 12-month waiting period if there are no signs,symptoms,or treatments.
Beyond the comprehensive coverage,Fetch offers unique perks to help you save money. These benefits feature up to $1,000 yearly for virtual vet visits with no required deductible,financial assistance for lost pets,coverage for trip cancellations if your pet falls ill,and more. Additionally,you can rest assured that your pet will be covered before treatment begins,as Fetch can provide you with pre-approval for procedures and cost estimates.
Expert Price Analysis
When I compared quotes for Berners of different ages and locations,I found that Fetch’s pricing was occasionally competitive but often fell above average,particularly for older dogs.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| All-inclusive policies with very few exclusions | Lengthy 15-day waiting period for accidents |
| Covers pre-existing conditions that can be cured after a year of no symptoms | 6-month waiting periods for elbow/hip dysplasia and CCL ruptures |
| Numerous unique perks (free virtual vet visits,trip cancellation,pet boarding,etc.) | No discount if you insure multiple pets |
| Offers a wellness plan add-on | |
| Obtain prior approval for treatment costs and procedures | |
| No age limitations for older pups |
In-Depth Review Of Fetch
Be sure to read my in-depth review of Fetch,where I dive into its wide-ranging coverage,unique advantages,wellness plan,reimbursement procedures,and more.
Best For Unlimited Payouts:Healthy Paws
- Policy Options:Accident &Illness
- Annual Deductible Options:$100,$250,$500,$750,$1,000
- Annual Payout Options:Unlimited
- Reimbursement Options:50%,60%,70%,80%,90%
Why I Picked Healthy Paws
Healthy Paws offers unlimited annual payouts on all its policies. This means you won’t have to stress about hitting a coverage cap if your pup needs a lot of vet treatment during the year. This is especially beneficial for owners of Bernese Mountain Dogs,who are known to face several costly health concerns. When you look at other insurance companies that provide similar deductibles,reimbursements,and unlimited payouts,Healthy Paws often stands out as the more cost-effective option. Opting for Healthy Paws is a smart decision for pet parents wanting the reassurance of unlimited coverage.
Expert Price Analysis
Healthy Paws provides unlimited payouts,which makes it tricky to compare its premium rates directly with those of other insurance companies. However,I found that the pricing for coverage on Bernese Mountain Dogs is often similar to or just a bit higher than some other providers that offer a $5,000 payout,along with comparable deductibles and reimbursement options.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Every policy includes unlimited annual payouts | Older BMDs have limited customization options for deductible and reimbursement percentage |
| Some of the most affordable rates for comparable coverage and unlimited payout plans | Some BMDs are uninsurable based on age and location |
| All policies cover complementary therapies | No ability to get coverage for veterinary exam costs and behavioral therapies |
| Quick claim processing—on average,2 days | For dogs who enroll at age 6 or older,coverage for hip dysplasia is not available |
| 15-day waiting period for CCL ruptures is much shorter than most insurers | Dogs under 6 years old face a long 12-month waiting period for hip dysplasia coverage |
| Consistently highly-ranked for client satisfaction |
In-Depth Review Of Healthy Paws
See my comprehensive review of Healthy Paws for more details on this provider’s coverage,exclusions,customization options,waiting periods,and more.
Best For Short Accident Waiting Period:Figo
- Policy Options:Accident &Illness,Wellness
- AnnualDeductible Options:$100,$250,$500,$750
- Annual Payout Options:$5,000,$10,000,Unlimited
- Reimbursement Options:70%,80%,90%,100%
Why I Picked Figo
Many Berners can be accident-prone. Not only are they highly susceptible to a potentially fatal condition called gastric torsion,but they also have a reputation for swallowing objects they shouldn’t. Figo pet insurance stands for having a one-day accident waiting period — the shortest in the industry.This means that starting on the second day after you enroll,your furry friend will be eligible for coverage if they happen to swallow a foreign body,eat something poisonous,or get injured while exploring their world.
Figo is an excellent choice as it provides a range of customization options,including unlimited payouts and 100% reimbursement. Their policies also cover dental illness,complementary care,and behavioral therapies.Moreover,Figo covers curable pre-existing conditions,such as ear and skin infections often found in BMDs.
Expert Price Analysis
After comparing the quotes I obtained,I found that in some locations,Figo’s lower coverage ($750 deductible,70% reimbursement,and $5,000 payout) was reasonably priced for Bernese Mountain Dogs. However,I discovered that higher coverage premiums ($100 deductible,90% reimbursement,and unlimited payout) tended to be higher than average.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1-day waiting period for accidents (shortest in industry) | Additional charge to cover veterinary exam fees |
| Rare 100% reimbursement option is among multiple customization choices | 6-month waiting periods for elbow/hip dysplasia and CCL ruptures |
| Dental benefits and coverage for behavioral and complementary therapies included | |
| Covers pre-existing conditions that can be cured after a year of no symptoms | |
| Offers a wellness plan add-on | |
| For every claim-free year,get a $50 deductible decrease | |
| Quick claim processing—on average,3 days | |
| Save 5% on policies for multiple pets | |
| No age limitations for older pups |
In-Depth Review Of Figo
Check out my in-depth review of Figo,where I discuss the features of this insurance provider in greater detail and share my personal customer experience.
Best For Older Bernese Mountain Dogs:Embrace
- Policy Options:Accident-Only,Accident &Illness,Wellness
- AnnualDeductible Options:$100,$250,$500,$750,$1,000
- Annual Payout Options:$2,000,$5,000,$8,000,$10,000,$15,000,Unlimited
- Reimbursement Options:70%,80%,90%
Why I Picked Embrace
Bernese Mountain Dogs rank among the breeds with the shortest lifespans,making insuring an older Berner quite pricey—and sometimes even impossible with some insurers. However,Embrace stands out by offering more reasonable premiums for Berners once they get older.
Embrace offers some of the most comprehensive accident and illness coverage. Each policy covers $1,000 in annual dental illness,complementary and behavioral therapies,and curable pre-existing conditions,all at a more budget-friendly price than many other insurers for senior BMDs. Plus,you can enhance your coverage with veterinary exam fees,prescription medications,and a wellness plan to keep your aging dog healthy in their golden years.
Expert Price Analysis
When I looked into quotes for Bernese Mountain Dogs aged five and olderacross different locations,I found that Embrace’s premium pricing was often the most budget-friendly option compared to similar coverage from other insurance providers. This was still the case even when I included coverage for vet exam fees and prescription drugs. However,the insurance rates were generally average or above average for younger Berners.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Among the most affordable premiums for older Berners | Additional charges to cover prescription medication and vet exam fees |
| Complementary care,behavioral therapy,and $1,000 for dental illness included in all plans | Some BMDs are uninsurable based on age and location |
| Save 10% on policies for multiple pets | 6-month waiting periods for elbow/hip dysplasia and CCL ruptures |
| For every claim-free year,get a $50 deductible decrease | |
| Covers pre-existing conditions that can be cured after a year of no symptoms | |
| Quick claim processing—on average,5 days | |
| Offers 3 wellness plan add-ons |
In-Depth Review Of Embrace
I’ve covered all the details of this insurer’s coverage,add-ons,waiting periods,and more in my thorough review of Embrace.
Best For Bernese Mountain Dog Puppies:Lemonade
- Policy Options:Accident &Illness,Wellness
- Annual Deductible Options:$100,$250,$500
- Annual Payout Options:$5,000,$10,000,$20,000,$50,000,$100,000
- Reimbursement Options:70%,80%,90%
Lemonade Pet Insurance Is NOT Available In:AK,AZ,DE,HI,ID,KS,KY,LA,ME,MN,MT,WV,WY
Why I Picked Lemonade
Lemonade is recognized for its budget-friendly rates,and I discovered that their premiums for Bernese Mountain Dog puppies are some of the most economical available. Additionally,this insurer offers a two-day waiting period for accidents,giving you peace of mind knowing that your Berner puppy will be protected if they happen to get injured while exploring their new surroundings.
Moreover,Lemonade provides an excellent wellness plan specifically designed for puppies. This plan covers spaying/neutering,two wellness exams,six vaccinations,two fecal tests for parasites,and more. It’s worth mentioning that Lemonade entered the pet insurance industry in 2020,so it may not be as established as some other companies I recommend. However,it has quickly built a solid reputation among its customers.
Expert Price Analysis
I found that Lemonade often offered some of the most affordable premiums for Berner puppies and even for older dogs in many instances.The premiums stayed very competitive when I included coverage for vet exam fees. However,I did come across some Berners aged eight and above who were uninsurable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Among the most affordable premiums for Berner puppies and young adults | Unavailable in 13 states |
| Save 5% on policies for multiple pets | Extra premium costs for dental benefits,vet exam fees,and complementary and behavioral therapies |
| Quick claim processing—on average,2 days | Long waiting period for CCL injury coverage (6 months) |
| Covers pre-existing conditions that can be cured after a year of no symptoms | |
| 2 wellness add-on plans (1 designed for puppies) | |
| Shorter than average waiting period for elbow/hip dysplasia coverage (30 days) |
In-Depth Review Of Lemonade
To learn more about this provider’s wellness plans,quick reimbursement procedures,waiting periods,add-on and customization options,and other features,read my comprehensive review of Lemonade.
Best For Pre-Existing Bilateral Conditions:Trupanion
- Policy Options:Accident &Illness
- Per-IncidentDeductible Options:$0 – $1,000 (in $5 increments)
- Annual Payout Options:Unlimited
- Reimbursement Options:50%,60%,70%,80%,90%,100%
Why I Picked Trupanion
Trupanion stands out from most pet insurance providers by covering pre-existing bilateral conditions(ailments that can afflict both sides of the body,but not always simultaneously). This means that if a health issue is identified on one side of the body before enrollment,it won’t be excluded from coverage on the other side (many insurers exclude).
Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to bilateral conditions like elbow and/or hip dysplasia,CCL ruptures,and numerous eye disorders.This coverage can be incredibly beneficial,especially considering the potentially high costs linked to many bilateral health concerns. Additionally,all of Trupanion’s plans come with unlimited annual payouts.
Expert Price Analysis
Trupanion offers unlimited annual payouts across all its plans,making it difficult to compare the costs of similar coverage with those of other providers. However,I discovered that Trupanion premiums for Bernese Mountain Dogs of all ages and locations were notably higher,often hundreds of dollars morethan those from other pet insurance companies for the same dog.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Every policy includes unlimited annual payouts | Extremely high premiums for BMDs |
| Trupanion can pay your veterinarian directly,saving you the wait for reimbursement | No ability to get coverage for veterinary exam costs |
| Pre-existing bilateral conditions are not excluded (rare in the industry) | Long waiting period for illnesses of 30 days |
| Covers pre-existing conditions that can be cured after a year of no symptoms | |
| $0 deductible and 100% reimbursement options in some states | |
| Quick claim processing—on average,2 days | |
| 30-day waiting periods for elbow/hip dysplasia and CCL injuries |
In-Depth Review Of Trupanion
For further information about this insurer’s coverage,waiting periods,customization options,direct vet payments,and other specifics,read my comprehensive review of Trupanion.
What Type Of Pet Insurance Plan Is Best For Bernese Mountain Dogs?
Accident-only and accident and illness plans are the two main categories of pet insurance policies. You can add an optional wellness plan to your insurance policy with some providers. It is imperative to bear in mind,though,that these plans are not insurance offerings. However,I’ve included them here because they’re offered during enrollment.
| Coverage | Accident-Only | Accident &Illness | Wellness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Injuries(lacerations,broken bones,canine bloat,foreign object ingestion,etc.) |  | | |
| Diseases(allergies,meningitis,arthritis,hip dysplasia,cancer,liver problems,hereditary eye disorders,etc.) | | ||
| Preventative(annual physical exams,vaccines,parasite prevention,professional dental cleaning,etc.) | |
What Are Accident-Only Pet Insurance Plans?
Accident-only plans are designed to help cover costs resulting from medical treatment if your pet faces an unexpected accident or injury. These can include non-illness-related emergencies such as gastric torsion,fractures,cuts,accidental poisoning,foreign object ingestion,and more.
An accident-only policy may be something to consider if you’re watching your spending closely or if your dog has multiple pre-existing conditions that aren’t covered by a more comprehensive insurance plan. Just keep in mind that only a select few providers offer these plans,and they won’t cover diseases or genetic issues.
Pricing Tip– Premiums for accident-only insurance policies are typically less expensive than those for accident and illness plans.
What Are Accident &Illness Pet Insurance Plans?
Pet insurance policies covering accidents and illnesses provide comprehensive coverage for various medical issues your pet may face. This encompasses physical injuries,diseases,and hereditary conditionsthat can impact Bernese Mountain Dogs,including hip dysplasia,eye disorders,hypothyroidism,epilepsy,allergies,and more. With this insurance,you’ll be prepared financially to handle practically any health issue your furry friend may encounter.
What Are Wellness Plans?
Adding a wellness plan to your pet insurance policy is beneficial in many ways to effectively manage your pup’s health. These plans assist with the cost of routine preventive care,such as annual wellness exams and blood tests,immunizations,professional dental cleanings,and prevention of parasites. They can help keep your pup as healthy as possible and catch early signs of diseases.
Pet insurance and pet wellness programs are two different products. The only coverage provided by wellness plans is for costs related to preventive care;accidents,illnesses,and inherited diseases are not covered.
What Does Pet Insurance Cover &Exclude?
The extent of coverage your pet insurance provides depends on the insurance company and the particular policy you pick. The following are usually covered by accident and illness policies as long as a veterinarian certifies that they are medically necessary. But keep in mind that there might be restrictions on this coverage,which is why it’s crucial to carefully read the fine print of any policy.
| Covered | Excluded |
|---|---|
| Blood tests | Boarding |
| Cancer (chemo &radiation) | Cremation &burial costs |
| CT scans | Elective procedures (e.g.,declawing,ear cropping,spaying/neutering,tail docking,etc.) |
| Chronic conditions | Food &supplements |
| Congenital conditions | Grooming |
| Emergency care | Pre-existing conditions* |
| Euthanasia | Pregnancy &breeding |
| Hereditary conditions | Vaccines |
| MRIs | |
| Non-routine dental treatment | |
| Prescription medications | |
| Rehabilitation | |
| Specialized exams &care | |
| Surgery &hospitalization | |
| Ultrasounds | |
| X-rays |
Learn More About Pet Insurance Coverage
Understanding the finer points of coverage and exclusions can be difficult,so I suggest reading my comprehensive guide on pet insurance coverage for assistance.
What Determines The Cost Of Pet Insurance For Bernese Mountain Dogs?
Pet insurance costs vary depending on many factors,such as where you live,how old your dog is,the underwriting requirements of the insurance companies,and more. I’ve included a summary of these elements below.
- Your dog’s agesignificantly influences the cost of your insurance premiums. For example,as dogs age,they’re more likely to develop health problems;therefore,fees will be higher than with younger dogs.
- The cost of living in your areaaffects the premiums for pet insurance. Higher living expenses affect you and your veterinarian,so if you live in an expensive area,you should expect costs to be higher for both pet insurance and veterinary care.
- Your dog’s breedhas a big impact on insurance costs as well. Some breeds,like BMDs,are prone to more health problems than others. Also,purebred dogs experience more hereditary diseases compared to mixed breeds.
- Premiums for male BMDs may be higher than those for females. Why? Because males are usually larger and,therefore,require more medication and treatment equipment. Also,male BMDs tend to have more serious health problems than females. However,not all insurance companies increase their premiums based on the dog’s gender.
You may have no control over every factor that affects how much your policy costs. However,the good news is that most insurers give you many choices to customize your coverage to fit your budget.
Customization Options Affect Cost &Benefits
The majority of pet insurance companies allow you to alter the maximum payout,reimbursement rate,and deductible to create a plan that best suits your financial needs. It is essential to comprehend the effects of these changes on your coverage and benefits. I’ll explain below.
What Is The Maximum Payout?
The pet insurance industry has two types of payouts:lifetime and annual. An annual maximum payout is the highest sum an insurance company will pay out over a year-long policy. The majority of providers offer annual payout options.A lifetime payout is the highest amount the insurance will cover for the duration of the pet’s insured life. The most common annual payout amounts are $5,000,$10,000,and unlimited.
Pricing Tip– If you choose a higher payout,your monthly premium will increase. But,if your dog requires costly medical care in a single year,you may not have to worry as much about hitting your annual cap.
Is The Deductible Annual Or Per-Incident?
The amount of the veterinary bill you must pay out of pocket before receiving reimbursement from the insurance company is called the deductible.Typically,deductibles fall between $100 and $1,000,with $100,$250,and $500 being the most common amounts. The two deductible types in pet insurance are annual and per-incident. This is how they vary.
- Annual deductible:An annual deductible is the specific amount you need to pay each year for your dog’s veterinary care,no matter how many health issues or treatments arise. This fixed cost helps you better plan and manage your pet’s medical expenses. Almost all insurance providers have annual deductibles in their plans.
- Per-incident deductible:Every time your pet requires medical care for a new health concern,you must pay a per-incident deductible. This type of deductible can add up fast if your dog faces several health issues in a single year. On the other hand,for ongoing conditions such as allergies,arthritis,hypothyroidism,and epilepsy,this deductible can be beneficial since you only pay it once during your pet’s insured lifetime. Trupanion offers a per-incident deductible.
Pricing Tip – Selecting a higher deductible decreases your monthly premium.
What’s The Reimbursement Percentage?
Once you’ve paid your deductible,the reimbursement percentage is the portion of your veterinary bills the provider reimburses you for. The most common reimbursement options are 70%,80%,and 90%. If you select a 90% reimbursement rate,for example,you will only have to pay 10% of the total vet bill after you meet your chosen deductible.
Pricing Tip– Selecting a lower reimbursement percentage decreases your monthly premium,but you’ll be required to pay more out-of-pocket costs for treatment.
Learn More About Pet Insurance Costs
Check out my guide on pet insurance costs for more information on how various customization options can affect your benefits,including some specific examples.
How Much Is Pet Insurance For Bernese Mountain Dogs?
To get a precise pet insurance quote for your Bernese Mountain Dog,enter your zip code and your dog’s information in the form below. We will present customized insurance quotes from multiple providers specifically for your Berner. While checking out the sample quotes for BMDs from various areas in the U.S. can be useful,keep in mind that the insurance cost for your dog may vary depending on their unique needs.
According to NAPHIA (North American Pet Health Insurance Association),the average monthly premium for an accident and illness dog insurance policy in the U.S. is $56.30 ($31.94 for cats).
I’ve gathered quotes for Bernese Mountain Dogs from different places and ages to give you a rough idea of pet insurance costs. To ensure a fair comparison,these quotes include similar customization options for deductibles,reimbursement,and payout when possible.
*80% reimbursement;**70% reimbursement;†50% reimbursement and $1,000 deductible (no other options);‡$0 deductible;§Unlimited annual payouts
Bernese Mountain Dog Insurance Cost:Lowest &Highest Amounts
I’ve also gathered the lowest and highest monthly costs for Bernese Mountain Dog pet insurance from various providers. This comparison considers deductibles,reimbursement rates,payout limits,and optional add-ons (excluding wellness plans). To illustrate how costs differ based on enrollment age,I’ve provided quotes for two ages for each location.
| Company | 2mo old 95818 (Sacramento,CA) | 5yr old 95818 (Sacramento,CA) | 2mo old 14211 (Buffalo,NY) | 5yr old 14211 (Buffalo,NY) | 2mo old 33604 (Tampa,FL) | 5yr old 33604 (Tampa,FL) | 2mo old 78731 (Austin,TX) | 5yr old 78731 (Austin,TX) | 2mo old 07305 (Jersey City,NJ) | 5yr old 07305 (Jersey City,NJ) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $35-$220 | $61-$377 | $23-$143 | $39-$246 | $34-$215 | $54-$346 | $41-$230 | $65-$371 | $56-$319 | $89-$515 |
| $63-$164 | $131-$347 | $66-$150 | $125-$289 | $75-$175 | $140-$327 | $79-$181 | $145-$338 | $76-$151 | $139-$281 |
 | $76-$114 | $110-$167 | $67-$81 | Uninsurable | $32-$79 | $52-$139 | $92-$110 | $134-$161 | $78-$93 | $113-$136 |
| $48-$282 | $62-$366 | $41-$309 | $53-$401 | $32-$245 | $47-$356 | $36-$270 | $52-$391 | $60-$389 | $78-$505 |
 | $30-$314 | Uninsurable | $34-$293 | $34-$300 | $25-$166 | $33-$216 | $36-$240 | $48-$314 | $38-$250 | $50-$328 |
| $30-$205 | $52-$337 | $34-$181 | $50-$257 | $26-$184 | $47-$313 | $67-$263 | $47-$208 | $41-$203 | $60-$291 |
| $92-$400 | $192-$867 | $93-$407 | $163-$732 | $247-$458 | $529-$980 | $104-$458 | $212-$957 | $128-$570 | $267-$1,216 |
What Are Waiting Periods For Bernese Mountain Dog Pet Insurance?
The time that elapses between enrolling in pet insurance and the moment coverage begins is known as the waiting period.In most states,* the duration of this period is set by the specific insurance provider. Waiting periods usually range from 0 to 15 days for accidents and approximately 14 days for illnesses. Some insurers may require longer waiting periods for orthopedic conditions like CCL ruptures and hip dysplasia.
*States are slowly adopting a Model Law for pet insurance. This Model Law attempts to standardize each state’s regulations,which includes a standard for waiting periods that all companies must follow. Waiting periods for California,Delaware,Louisiana,Maine,Mississippi,Nebraska,New Hampshire,and Washington are as follows:
- Accidents – 0 days
- Illnesses – 14 days
- Cruciate Ligament Conditions – 30 days
- Routine Care – 0 days
Learn More About Waiting Periods
Discover the reasons behind provider waiting times and learn other essential information regarding waiting periods for pet insurance.
How Does Pet Insurance For Bernese Mountain Dogs Work?
After the waiting periods specified in your policy have elapsed,using pet insurance is an easy process.
- After your dog has received treatment,pay your veterinarian immediately.
- Fill out a claim form and send your insurance company an itemized receipt to initiate a claim. Depending on the provider,you may need to bring your claim form to your appointment for the vet’s signature.
- Once your claim is approved,you’ll get reimbursed* through your chosen payment method,such as direct deposit or a check.
*Reimbursement times can vary greatly,ranging from a few minutes to several weeks. This will depend on the complexity of your claim and the estimated processing time provided by the company.
17 Health Issues In Bernese Mountain Dogs
The average life expectancy of Bernese Mountain Dogs is only 7 to 10 years,and they are prone to various inherited diseases and other potential health problems. It’s critical for owners of Berners to be aware of the health risks and possible costs associated with caring for this breed.
- Elbow and hip dysplasiaare long-term issues where the joints become too loose,leading to discomfort and decreased mobility. Surgery is frequently necessary as the disease progresses to enhance a dog’s quality of life,with costs falling between $1,700 and $4,500 or more.
- Injuries to the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL)are more common in Berners because of genetics and their high energy levels. Treatment usually involves orthopedic surgery,which can cost anywhere from $1,600 to $6,000 or more.
- Deep-chested breeds like Bernese Mountain Dogs are at risk for gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV),also called gastric torsion or canine bloat. This severe condition can develop when a dog overeats or eats too rapidly. This can lead to an expansion and twisting of the stomach. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial,and treatment can reach up to $3,000.
- A congenital issue seen in some BMDs,a portosystemic (liver) shuntinvolves an abnormal blood vessel that allows blood to bypass the liver,hindering its ability to filter out toxins. Often,surgery is necessary to address this condition promptly. A simple surgical procedure to close a single shunt can range from $2,000 to $3,000. More complex cases can exceed $10,000.
- Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD)is a genetic developmental issue frequently seen in young Berners. It occurs when the cartilage detaches from the bone within a joint,leading to pain. This condition typically affects the shoulder,knee,and ankle joints. The cost of diagnosis and surgery can vary from $2,000 to $4,000 or even higher.
- Panosteitisis a painful condition that impacts young,rapidly growing large breeds like BMDs. It involves inflammation in the shaft of one or more long bones in the legs,leading to significant discomfort. X-rays are necessary to diagnose this condition. Treatment typically includes anti-inflammatory and pain relief medications until the issue resolves independently,which may take up to 2.5 years. In many cases,follow-up X-rays are also required. Overall,the total cost can exceed $1,500.
- This breed is often affected by hereditary eye disorders,such as cataracts,entropion,ectropion,and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Both the diagnosis and the course of treatment for these illnesses can be costly. For instance,entropion treatment costs from $300 to $1,500,while cataract surgery costs between $2,600 and $3,800. Unfortunately,there is no known cure for PRA.
- A congenital heart condition,subaortic stenosis (SAS),necessitates lifelong medication and regular monitoring. The cost of prescription drugs is affordable. However,the cost of each echocardiogram can vary from $500 to $600 per scan.
- Young Bernese Mountain Dogs are susceptible to hereditary aseptic meningitis,which can cause severe neurological complications if not treated promptly. Signs include fever,severe neck pain,stiffness,and seizures. Diagnosis and treatment can range from $1,500 to $4,000.
- Allergiesare long-term issues that require different treatment approaches based on their cause and severity. The costs for diagnosis,testing,medications,shots,special diets,creams,and other treatments can exceed $2,000.
- Berners are prone to ear infectionsbecause their floppy ears and thick hair retain moisture and act as a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast. The initial and subsequent veterinary visits,diagnostic testing,and medication can cost anywhere from $250 to over $500 per infection.
- This breed is highly predisposed to arthritis,a chronic joint disease that may require ongoing treatment,depending on the severity. The cost of prescription drugs and physical therapy can run up to $500 per month for moderate cases.In severe cases,thousands of dollars worth of surgery might be needed.
- Epilepsyis a hereditary condition found in Bernese Mountain Dogs that causes irregular electrical activity in the brain,leading to seizures. Basic diagnostic tests,medications,and routine check-ups cost approximately $500 annually. For more complex cases,dogs may need more frequent visits and pricier medications,with annual expenses ranging from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Berners are prone to hypothyroidism,a disorder brought on by insufficient production of thyroid hormones. This chronic condition necessitates lifelong medication and testing. While the initial diagnostic testing can cost anywhere from $50 to $150,the average monthly medication cost is $20 to $50.The annual retest,which ranges from $50 to $100,is required to ensure the medication is still working.
- Von Willebrand diseasein dogs is caused by a genetic blood condition that results in insufficient production of von Willebrand factor (vWF),which causes excessive bleeding. Treatment options include blood transfusions,surgery (which can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500),or injecting a synthetic hormone to temporarily raise vWF levels.
- Some studies have shown that nearly half of all Bernese Mountain Dogs develop cancer. The most common types affecting this breed are histiocytic sarcoma,osteosarcoma,and lymphoma. Costs involved with cancer can exceed $10,000 for diagnostics,surgery,chemotherapy,medications,etc.
- Degenerative myelopathy (DM)is a hereditary neurological condition that results in progressively weaker and less functional hind legs. It can cost $500 or more per month for physical therapy and nutritional supplements to slow the progression of DM. Sadly,there’s no cure.
Is Pet Insurance Worth It For Bernese Mountain Dogs?
According to the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA) testing statistics,nearly 27% of Bernese Mountain Dogs tested positive for elbow dysplasia,over 16% for hip dysplasia,11% for DM,and 16% had at least one eye disorder. Given the high cost of these and many other conditions this breed can face,pet insurance is a must.Pet insurance allows you to get the medical care your beloved pup needs without worrying about hefty vet bills. Getting insurance before medical emergencies or genetic problems occur is essential because insurance providers don’t cover most pre-existing conditions.
Determine If Your Bernese Mountain Dog Needs Insurance
I recommend reading my in-depth guide on whether pet insurance is worthwhile if you’re still having trouble weighing the benefits and drawbacks of getting coverage for your Berner.
5 Steps To Find The Best Pet Insurance For Bernese Mountain Dogs
When choosing an insurance plan that best meets your financial needs and the health requirements of your BMD,these are the most crucial factors to consider.
- Find out about the reputation of each insurance provider. Long-standing companies are typically more reliable than recent ones.
- Consider every possible health concern for BMDs,and learn about each company’s coverage and restrictions on these ailments.
- Choose between an accident-only or accident and illness plan.
- Understand the claim processing and reimbursement procedures of each provider.
- To compare costs,request quotesfrom three or more pet insurance providers.
Methodology
To determine the best pet insurance for Bernese Mountain Dogs,we analyzed more than 40 U.S. pet insurance companies to provide an unbiased breakdown of how providers compare against one another. Our in-depth research includes:
- Running thousands of price quotes
- Reading hundreds of customer reviews
- Scrutinizing every policy from top to bottom and reading all the fine print
- Scoping out the purchase process
- Speaking with customer service representatives
- Having firsthand experience submitting claims with companies
- Comparing plan customization details
- Examining how long it takes to receive reimbursement
- Factoring in company history and years in the pet insurance marketplace
- Meeting with company representatives to discuss changes related to the industry,their company,and their offerings
- Requiring national experience for companies
Unlike many other review sites,we refuse to let pet insurance companies pay for the top spot in our rankings. Companies must earn their position in our comparisons by performing well in the marketplace. We also highlight each company’s pros and cons in light of their competitor’s strengths. In doing so for over a decade,we’ve helped pet parents make more educated decisions among the top pet insurance options. Pet insurance providers read our reviews,regularly check them for accuracy,and value our input to help create positive industry changes and better protect your pets. We only recommend the best of the best because it’s what our readers deserve.
Additional Pet Insurance Resources
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Canine Journal has been covering the topic of pet insurance since 2012,well before other conglomerates discovered the rising popularity of health care for our pets. Many of our authors have personal experience with pet insurance,including Kimberly Alt,who has been Canine Journal’s go-to writer for pet insurance for over a decade,having written about nearly every possible facet related to pet insurance. Kimberly knows the subject so well that she can answer a breadth and depth of pet insurance questions immediately. And on the rare occasion she doesn’t know the answer off the top of her head,she can find it within minutes due to her vast list of resources. Kimberly also has extensive knowledge of dog health conditions,which can help her recommend pet insurance providers to pet owners with specific breeds.
Kimberly collaborated with Sally Jones,a seasoned health sciences communications professional with decades of experience. Sally specializes in dog health and is adept at producing content on technical topics such as pet insurance. Her wealth of knowledge and insight played a crucial role in this article’s thorough research and composition.
Kimberly also consulted with Michelle Schenker,Canine Journal’s in-house licensed insurance agent,for additional expertise to ensure accuracy and give Canine Journal the authority to write about and assist readers in purchasing policies that are accurately represented.
