Great Danes are one of the most recognizable breeds on the planet. They’re known as gentle giants and are super affectionate with family members but also great as guard dogs. Despite their size and commanding presence, Great Danes are predisposed to many serious health problems and have a much shorter-than-average lifespan.
This breed is susceptible to a variety of serious health conditions, including heart disease, gastric torsion, hip dysplasia, spinal issues, bone cancer, eye disorders, Addison’s disease, among others. Managing your dog’s health concerns can impose a significant financial and emotional strain. Nevertheless, pet insurance can mitigate these concerns by covering a substantial portion of your Great Dane’s veterinary expenses.
Drawing on my 10 years of experience with pet insurance and breed-specific health challenges, I will guide you through the most prevalent health issues Great Danes encounter and their associated treatment costs. Additionally, I will assist you in determining whether pet insurance is a suitable choice for your dog and provide my top recommendations for policies that best match your needs.
Best Pet Insurance For Great Danes
Just like any other purebred dog, Great Danes come with their own unique insurance needs. After thorough research, I’ve handpicked the best pet insurance options tailored to suit your Dane’s requirements. In my selection process, I took into account various factors, including the dog’s age, possible health concerns, coverage choices, premium costs, and more.
Best For Great Dane Puppies: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
Looking for the perfect insurance for your Great Dane puppy? I recommend Pets Best due to its affordable premiums and comprehensive coverage.Unlike many insurers that require puppies to be at least eight weeks old,you can sign up your puppy with Pets Best starting at just seven weeks.
With a short three-day waiting period for accidents,you can relax knowing your puppy is covered,especially during those playful moments when they might get injured or accidentally ingest something harmful. It’s also one of the few providers offering a budget-friendly accident-only plan. Additionally,Pets Best offers an affordable wellness plan add-on,which can assist you in managing regular veterinary expenses like annual check-ups and vaccinations,ensuring your puppy stays healthy throughout their life.
Expert Price Analysis
After gathering quotes from leading providers,I found that Pets Best consistently offered some of the most competitive premiums for Great Dane puppies across different regions. This was true even when the deductible,reimbursement,and annual payout were the same as other insurer’s plans. Additionally,Pets Best’s basic plan with lower coverage ($5,000 payout,70% reimbursement,and a $1,000 deductible),often had the best pricing for Great Dane puppies.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable pricing for Great Dane puppies | Lengthy claim processing (18-30 days on average) |
| 5% discount for multiple pets | Additional expense to cover exam fees and complementary therapy* |
| Competitively priced wellness plan add-ons | Accident-only plan excludes CCL injury coverage |
| Includes treatable pre-existing conditions once they are deemed cured or healed | |
| Hip dysplasia waiting period of 14 days and accidents at 3 days are shorter than many | |
| No age restrictions for older dogs |
In-Depth Review Of Pets Best
Don’t miss my detailed review of Pets Best,where you can learn all about its coverage,exclusions,various plan options,customization features,reimbursement process,waiting periods,and more.
Best All-Inclusive Policies:Fetch
- Policy Options:Accident &Illness,Wellness
- Annual Deductible 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 stands out as a top choice for Great Dane owners,offering pet insurance plans that provide comprehensive coverage without the hassle of upgrades or add-ons. All policies include coverage for vet exam fees,behavioral therapies,complementary therapies,and C-sections— benefits that many other insurers often don’t include. Notably,Fetch also covers curable pre-existing conditions and injuries after a period of 12 months without any signs,symptoms,or treatment.
In addition to these great features,Fetch offers special perks like up to $1,000 annually for virtual vet visits (with no deductible),assistance for lost pets,and trip cancellation coverage if your pet falls ill. Plus,they make it easy with pre-approval for procedures and cost estimates before treatment,ensuring you can rest easy knowing your Great Dane will receive the care they need.
Expert Price Analysis
When I compared quotes for Great Danes of varying ages and locations,I found that their pricing for a $5,000 payout,90% reimbursement,and $500 deductible was average to above average. On the other hand,Fetch’s maximum coverage($15,000 payout,90% reimbursement,$100 deductible) wasless expensive than many insurers for comparable coverage.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extensive coverage with few exclusions | Lengthy 15-day waiting period for accidents |
| Curable pre-existing conditions are covered after a year in which there are no symptoms | Waiting periods for hip dysplasia and CCL tears are 6 months |
| Unique coverage includes virtual vet sessions,pet boarding,trip cancellation,and other benefits | Doesn’t offer any multi-pet discounts |
| Several options for wellness plan add-ons | |
| Provides preliminary approval for estimated expenses and procedures | |
| Can enroll puppies as young as 6 weeks |
In-Depth Review Of Fetch
Check out my in-depth review of Fetch to find out more about its extensive coverage,special benefits,customized options,and other features.
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
Great Danes can be susceptible to many costly injuries and genetic health issues,so it’s wise to look into pet insurance that offers no annual payout limits,such as Healthy Paws. With unlimited annual coverage,you can have peace of mind knowing your beloved pet is protected against any health concerns that may arise.
Although Healthy Paws pet insurance might appear more expensive at first glance due to its unlimited payout feature,it actually provides competitive plans that can be more economical than other providers with similar deductibles,reimbursements,and unlimited annual payouts. Plus,Healthy Paws boasts fast claim processing and an outstanding customer satisfaction rating.
Expert Price Analysis
Even though Healthy Paws only offers unlimited annual payouts for all of its plans,I found that the premiums for Great Danes were often more reasonable or comparable to those of other companies with a $5,000 yearly payout,comparable deductible,and reimbursement.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Annual payouts are unlimited with every policy | Very limited customization options for older dogs |
| Often more affordable than other insurer’s policies with comparable deductibles and reimbursement amounts and unlimited payouts | No coverage available for vet exam fees or behavioral therapy |
| Average 2-day claim processing | Hip dysplasia coverage is not available for dogs enrolled at six years of age or above |
| 15-day CCL surgery waiting period (many have 6 months) | Lengthy 12-month waiting period for hip dysplasia coverage |
| Exceptional history of client satisfaction |
In-Depth Review Of Healthy Paws
To discover more about this provider’s coverage,customizations,reimbursement procedure,and other crucial information,read my comprehensive review of Healthy Paws.
Most Customizable Plans:Figo
- Policy Options:Accident &Illness,Wellness
- Annual Deductible Options:$100,$250,$500,$750
- Annual Payout Options:$5,000,$10,000,Unlimited
- Reimbursement Options:70%,80%,90%,100%
Why I Picked Figo
Figo provides a range of options to help you design the ideal pet insurance plan for your Great Dane. With three predefined accident and illness plans,along with a lot of flexibility to adjust the annual payout,reimbursement rates,and deductibles,you can customize the coverage to fit your financial needs. Notably,Figo offers features like unlimited annual payouts and 100% reimbursement,setting it apart in the pet insurance market.
Additionally,Figo stands out for its outstanding customer service,a quick one-day waiting period for accidents,and an impressive average claim processing time of only three days. Plus,every Figo policy includes extensive coverage,addressing issues like gum disease and offering complementary and behavioral therapies.
Expert Price Analysis
While comparing quotes for different Great Danes with lower coverage options($5,000 payouts,70% reimbursement,and a $750 deductible),I found that Figo’s premiums were generally around average or slightly below average.There were a couple of cases where they were a bit pricier than the least expensive choices. Conversely,when I looked into maximum coverage (unlimited payouts,90% reimbursement,and a $100 deductible),Figo’s rates were noticeably higher than many other insurance providers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A lot of flexibility to adjust your deductible,reimbursement,and payout | Additional expense to cover exam fees |
| Waiting period for accidents is only one day | Lengthy 6-month waiting period for hip dysplasia coverage |
| Gum disease,complementary care,and behavioral therapies are covered in every policy | |
| Curable pre-existing conditions are covered after a year in which there are no symptoms | |
| 2 wellness plan add-ons available | |
| Every year that you go without filing a claim,your deductible drops by $50 | |
| Average 3-day claim processing | |
| 5% multi-pet discount |
In-Depth Review Of Figo
Take a look at my comprehensive review of Figo,where you’ll find all the information you need about their pre-set and customizable insurance plans,coverage,reimbursement process,and my own experiences with this provider.
Best For Older Great Danes:Embrace
- Policy Options:Accident-Only,Accident &Illness,Wellness
- Annual Deductible Options:$100,$250,$500,$750,$1,000
- Annual Payout Options:$5,000,$8,000,$10,000,$15,000,Unlimited
- Reimbursement Options:70%,80%,90%
Why I Picked Embrace
Great Danes are in the top five breeds with the shortest lifespan,so insuring an older Dane can be extremely expensive— and,at times,even uninsurable (as is the case with Lemonade pet insurance for an eight-year-old Dane). However,Embrace is an exception from many insanely costly premiums for Danes once they reach five years of age.
With very competitive pricing for older Great Danes,Embrace provides extensive accident and illness plans.Each policy includes $1,000 in annual dental illness coverage,complementary and behavioral therapy,and curable pre-existing conditions,all at an affordable rate compared to many insurers. Additionally,you can supplement your coverage with veterinary exam fees,prescription medications,and a wellness plan designed to maintain your aging dog’s health during their remaining years with you.
Expert Price Analysis
When I ran quotes for Great Danes at age five and older at varying ages and locations,Embrace’s premium pricing was the most affordable in many cases. This held true when I added in vet exam and prescription drug fees. For younger Danes,insurance costs were average in many instances or just above average.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Among the most affordable premiums for Great Danes older than 5 | Additional expenses to cover exam fees and prescription drugs |
| All plans include $1,000 for dental illness,complementary care,and behavioral therapy | 6-month waiting periods for hip dysplasia and CCL surgery coverage |
| 10% multi-pet discount (best in the industry) | |
| Every year that you go without filing a claim,your deductible drops by $50 | |
| Curable pre-existing conditions are covered after a year in which there are no symptoms | |
| 2-day accident waiting period is shorter than most | |
| Several wellness add-on plans to choose from |
In-Depth Review Of Embrace
Find additional details regarding this insurer’s coverage,customizations,reimbursement processes,and much more in my thorough review of Embrace.
Most Affordable: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
Premium pricing is an important consideration,especially for Great Danes,who can be costly to insure. Lemonade stands out for its affordability,making it a great option for budget-conscious Dane owners. Its basic plan is often one of the most competitively priced in the market. With Lemonade,you can also choose to add extra coverage for things like exam fees,dental care,physical therapy,and behavioral therapy by paying additional premiums for each. This allows you to customize your pet’s insurance to fit your specific needs while keeping your costs in check.
Lemonade debuted in the pet insurance sector in 2020 and has quickly gained recognition. Although it’s relatively new compared to other providers I recommend,Lemonade has garnered outstanding customer feedback,largely due to its efficient claims processing.
Expert Price Analysis
While comparing quotes,I discovered that Lemonade often offered some of the lowest prices for Great Danes.This trend held true even when I included vet exam fees to evaluate the premium costs from different providers. However,it’s important to note that an eight-year-old Dane living in Newark,NJ,was uninsurable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Consistently among the most affordable for Great Danes | Only available in 37 states and Washington,D.C. |
| 5% multi-pet discount | Additional premium costs for coverage of vet exams,dental care,complementary care,and behavioral therapy |
| Curable pre-existing conditions are covered after a year in which there are no symptoms | No coverage available for alternative therapies |
| Typical 2-day claim processing time is shorter than many | Doesn’t enroll some Great Danes once they reach a certain age |
| 2 optional wellness plans available | |
| Waiting period for hip dysplasia coverage is only 30 days |
In-Depth Review Of Lemonade
Read my detailed review of Lemonade to discover more about this budget-friendly provider’s coverage,add-ons,customization choices,benefits,AI-powered reimbursement system,and plenty more.
Best For Pre-Existing Bilateral Conditions:Trupanion
- Policy Options:Accident &Illness
- Per-Incident Deductible Options:$0 – $1,000 (in $5 increments)
- Annual Payout Options:Unlimited
- Reimbursement Options:50%,60%,70%,80%,90%,100%
Why I Picked Trupanion
To start,what exactly is a bilateral condition? These are health issues thatoften impact both sides of the body,though not necessarily at the same time.For instance,in Great Danes,common bilateral conditions include hip dysplasia,CCL tears,entropion,cherry eye,and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). Most pet insurance companies will not cover a second occurrence if the first was diagnosed on one side prior to enrollment.
On the other hand,Trupanion’s policies are different as they do not exclude pre-existing bilateral conditions.Since treatment for these conditions can be quite costly,having Trupanion’s coverage can provide significant financial relief if your Dane has already shown signs of a bilateral condition on one side.
Expert Price Analysis
My review of Trupanion’s quotes for Great Dane insurance revealed that their rates were consistently higher than other insurers.In many instances,the premiums were twice as expensive,and in some cases,they were hundreds of dollars more.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Annual payouts are unlimited with every policy | Highest premiums for Great Danes |
| Makes direct payments to participating veterinarians | Coverage for exam fees is unavailable |
| Doesn’t deny coverage for pre-existing bilateral conditions | Lengthy 30-day waiting period for illnesses |
| Curable pre-existing conditions are covered after a year in which there are no symptoms | |
| Processes claims in 2 days on average | |
| Shorter than average hip dysplasia waiting period at 30 days |
In-Depth Review Of Trupanion
For a more comprehensive insight into this insurer,including coverage details,benefits,customization choices,waiting periods,direct payments to veterinarians,and additional information,please check out my in-depth review of Trupanion.
What Type Of Pet Insurance Plan Is Best For Great Danes?
You can choose between two main types of pet insurance:plans that cover only accidents and those that cover both accidents and illnesses.Additionally,many insurance providers offer optional wellness plans.These wellness plans are designed to help you save on preventive care,ensuring your Dane remains in excellent health,but they are distinct from traditional pet insurance.
| Accident-Only | Accident &Illness | Wellness | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Injuries(gastric torsion,eye trauma,foreign object ingestion,lacerations,broken bones,etc.) |  | | |
| Diseases(heart disease,cancer,hip dysplasia,arthritis,skin allergies,ear infections,Addison’s disease,etc.) | | ||
| Preventative(annual exams,vaccinations,professional dental cleaning,etc.) | |
What Are Accident-Only Pet Insurance Plans?
Accident-only pet insurance plans are designed to help cover emergency care expenses related to specific accidents and injuries,such as swallowing foreign objects,gastric torsion,tail injuries,fractures,and cuts. These plans are ideal for pet owners working with a tighter budget.
They can also be a suitable choice for dogs with multiple pre-existing health conditions that wouldn’t be included in a more comprehensive accident and illness policy. It’s essential to remember that these plans do not cover illnesses or genetic disorders,which is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a pet insurance option. Additionally,many insurance providers do not offer accident-only plans.
Pricing Tip– Premiums for accident-only plans are generally much more affordable compared to those for plans that cover both accidents and illnesses.
What Are Accident &Illness Pet Insurance Plans?
Protecting your beloved pup with accident and illness insurance is definitely worth considering. These policies provide extensive coverage for accidental injuries and various health concerns,including allergies,skin and ear infections,cancer,Addison’s disease,wobbler syndrome,eye issues,heart defects,and other typical conditions seen in Great Danes. This way,you can be financially ready for nearly any health challenge that comes your way.
What Are Wellness Plans?
Adding a wellness plan to your pet insurance is a smart way to prioritize your furry friend’s health. These plans help cover some expenses related to regular preventive care,such as yearly check-ups,vaccinations,dental cleanings,parasite control,and more. By incorporating a wellness plan,you’re investing in your pet’s future health,allowing you to budget for their care more effectively. This can ease the financial strain of pet ownership and contribute to their overall well-being.
Wellness plans should not be confused with pet insurance,as they do not cover expenses related to accidents or illnesses.
What Does Pet Insurance Cover &Exclude?
Many accident and illness insurance plans from various providers typically include coverage for the conditions below when deemed medically necessary. It’s important to thoroughly review your policy,as different providers may impose unique restrictions for specific situations.What one insurer covers might not be available under another’s plan.
| 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
Check out my comprehensive guide that explains what pet insurance covers what it doesn’t,so you can be aware of the limitations to consider when choosing a policy.
What Determines The Cost Of Pet Insurance For Great Danes?
It’s important to grasp the various elements that affect the price of pet insurance,including your Great Dane’s age,where you live,and the specific underwriting rules of each insurance provider. Here’s a brief summary to give you a clearer picture of how insurers determine premium costs.
- Keep in mind that the cost of pet insurance can change based on your pet’s age.Typically,younger dogs enjoy lower premiums since they tend to have fewer health problems compared to their older counterparts.
- The cost of living in your areaplays a significant role in determining premium rates. It’s essential to recognize that fluctuations in pricing affect both you and your veterinarians. As a result,if you live in a region with a high cost of living,you may see an increase in both your pet insurance premiums and veterinary expenses.
- Your dog’s breedplays a major role in determining the cost of pet insurance. Certain breeds are more prone to health issues than others. For instance,purebred dogs like Great Danes tend to face more health challenges,which can significantly affect their insurance premiums.
- It’s also worth noting that insurance rates for male Great Danes may be higher compared to females. This is primarily because male Danes are generally larger,leading to a need for bigger medical equipment,more supplies,and higher medication dosages. However,it’s important to remember that not all insurance providers take a dog’s gender into accountwhen setting premium rates.
While these elements that influence your coverage costs are out of your hands,you still have the opportunity to choose a pet insurance plan that offers a variety of customization options to fit your needs and budget perfectly.
Customization Options Affect Cost &Benefits
You may be amazed to discover that you can take control of your pet insurance costs.Many pet insurance providers offer various plans that can be customized to suit your budget. First,you’ll want to choose whether you want coverage for both illnesses and accidents or just for accidents. Furthermore,you can modify the annual payout limit,the reimbursement percentage,and your deductible. It’s important to grasp how each of these changes will affect your overall coverage and benefits.
What Is A Maximum Payout?
Pet insurance providers typically offer either annual or lifetime maximum payout options. The companies discussed in this article all feature annual limits,with common caps set at $5,000,$10,000,and even unlimited.An annual payout indicates the total amount an insurance company will reimburse you throughout the policy year.In contrast,lifetime coverage refers to the maximum amount an insurer will pay over the entire insured life of your pet. Generally,pet owners tend to favor annual payouts when selecting insurance.
Pricing Tip– Choosing a bigger payout can help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses for costly vet care for your dog,but keep in mind that it will lead to a higher monthly premium.
What Is A Deductible?
The deductible is the portion of your veterinary bill you must cover yourselfbefore your insurance benefits kick in. For pet insurance,annual deductibles typically fall between $100 and $1,000. Trupanion,however,has a per-incident deductible for each incident rather than annual deductibles.
What distinguishes annual deductibles from per-incident deductibles? With an annual deductible,you only have to pay it once each year,no matter how many health issues your furry friend faces or treatments they need.This predictability makes it easier to budget for your pet’s healthcare costs.
On the other hand,if you have a per-incident deductible,you’ll need to pay that amount every time your pet encounters a medical issue or emergency.This can add up quickly if your pet has several health problems in one year. However,for ongoing chronic conditions like allergies,arthritis,hypothyroidism,and epilepsy,a per-incident deductible can be advantageous since you only pay it once for that particular condition during your pet’s insured lifetime.
Pricing Tip:If you opt for a lower deductible,your monthly premium will go up,but your out-of-pocket expenses during treatment will be reduced.
What’s The Reimbursement Percentage?
When determining the cost of your pet’s medical care,it’s essential to think about your selected reimbursement rate. This rate indicates the portion of veterinary expenses that your insurance provider will cover once you’ve met your deductible.For example,with a 70% reimbursement rate and a $750 deductible,the insurance would take care of the remaining 30% of the vet bills after you’ve paid the initial $750. Typical reimbursement rates are often set at 70%,80%,or 90%.
Pricing Tip– Choose your reimbursement rate carefully. While opting for a lower rate can lower your monthly premium,it means you face higher out-of-pocket costs for your dog’s medical care.
Learn More About Pet Insurance Costs
Premium pricing can be a bit perplexing,so I invite you to check out my detailed article on pet insurance costs to help clear up any questions you might have.
How Much Is Pet Insurance For A Great Dane?
Please fill out the form below with your dog’s details and your zip code. After that,we’ll send you tailored pet insurance quotes from leading companies,ensuring you get the most accurate estimate for your dog’s insurance costs. Plus,I’ve gathered some sample Great Dane pet insurance quotes to help you understand the typical premium rates.
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 collected pet insurance quotes for Great Danes of different ages and locations to provide you with a general idea of premium costs. To ensure that the comparison is most beneficial,I looked at prices from various insurers with comparable payout,deductible,and reimbursement rates.
*70% reimbursement;†50% reimbursement and $1,000 deductible (no other options);‡$0 deductible;§Unlimited annual payouts
Great Dane Insurance Cost:Lowest &Highest Amounts
I also collected quotes for the lowest and highest monthly premium range of Great Dane pet insurance from leading companies to provide you with a more comprehensive comparison. These rates take into account factors like the deductible,reimbursement,annual payout,and any add-on options (excluding wellness plans). Additionally,I’ve included quotes for two different ages of Danes to illustrate how a dog’s age at enrollment impacts insurance costs.
| 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 79404 (Lubbock,TX) | 5yr old 79404 (Lubbock,TX) | 2mo old 07108 (Newark,NJ) | 5yr old 07108 (Newark,NJ) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $36-$223 | $62-$383 | $24-$150 | $41-$258 | $29-$184 | $47-$297 | $26-$149 | $42-$241 | $38-$216 | $60-$348 |
| $61-$158 | $124-$329 | $59-$132 | $110-$255 | $67-$155 | $124-$290 | $40-$88 | $71-$162 | $64-$145 | $116-$269 |
 | $55-$83 | $80-$121 | $49-$60 | Uninsurable | $41-$107 | $69-$191 | $50-$60 | $73-$88 | $56-$67 | $82-$98 |
| $48-$282 | $62-$366 | $41-$309 | $53-$401 | $32-$245 | $47-$356 | $28-$215 | $41-$312 | $54-$348 | $70-$452 |
 | $40-$314 | Uninsurable | $47-$293 | $48-$300 | $35-$166 | $46-$216 | $34-$157 | $44-$205 | $47-$222 | $62-$290 |
| $34-$227 | $58-$374 | $38-$200 | $56-$285 | $26-$184 | $44-$313 | $38-$167 | $35-$170 | $40-$198 | $64-$284 |
| $102-$446 | $214-$968 | $78-$335 | $135-$600 | $241-$446 | $515-$953 | $82-$355 | $165-$741 | $114-$504 | $237-$1,074 |
What Are Waiting Periods For Great Dane Pet Insurance?
Different pet insurance providers have varying waiting periods,which is the time between enrolling in a policy and when your coverage actually kicks in. For accidents,these waiting periods can be anywhere from 0 to 15 days,while for illnesses,they usually last around 14 days. Additionally,some insurers impose specific waiting periods for orthopedic issues that Great Danes are prone to,such as CCL injuries 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
For a clearer insight into waiting periods and the reasons providers implement them,make sure to check out my detailed article on pet insurance waiting periods.
How Does Pet Insurance For Great Danes Work?
Utilizing your pet insurance is relatively straightforward after the waiting periods specified in your policy have passed.
- First,settle your vet billonce your pet’s appointment is finished.
- Next,submit an itemized receipt along with a claim form to your insurance company. Keep in mind that some insurers may ask for your vet’s signature on the claim form,so it’s a good idea to take a copy with you to the appointment.
- Once your claim is approved by the insurance provider,you will receive reimbursement* through your preferred payment method,whether that’s direct deposit,a check,or another option.
* The time it takes to receive your reimbursement can differ based on the company’s declared processing period and how complicated your claim is,ranging anywhere from just a few minutes to several weeks.
17 Common Health Issues In Great Danes
Great Danes typically have a lifespan of 8-10 years,though some may only reach 6 or 7 years. As with many purebred dogs,they are more likely to face specific health issues because of their genetics. Being aware of these potential health problems and their associated costs can assist you in determining whether your dog should have pet insurance.
- Great Danes are particularly prone to a serious condition known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV),commonly referred to as gastric torsion or canine bloat. This life-threatening health issue arises when dogs consume their food too quickly or in excessive amounts,leading to an expansion and twisting of the stomach. Urgent medical attention is crucial,and the expenses for treatment can reach $3,000 or even higher.
- Common in Danes,hip dysplasia isa painful and progressive condition where the femur doesn’t fit properly into the hip socket. This misalignment can lead to significant discomfort and a decline in the dog’s quality of life. Surgery often becomes necessaryto alleviate these problems,with expenses typically ranging from $1,700 to over $4,500 for each hip.
- Fast-growing giant breed puppies often face developmental orthopedic issuesthat can lead to pain and lameness. In Great Danes,the two most prevalent conditions are osteochondritis dissecans (OCD),which impacts joint cartilage,and hypertrophic osteodystrophy (HOD),which affects the growth plates of their long bones. The expenses for diagnosing and treating either of these conditions can surpass $4,000.
- Because of their considerable size,energetic nature,and genetics,Great Danes are at a higher risk of experiencing cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears. The most effective way to treat a torn CCL in dogs is through orthopedic surgery,which can range in cost from $1,600 to over $6,000.
- Another common problem in Danes is arthritis. Managing this ongoing joint condition can be quite expensive,with medication and physical therapy costs ranging from $100 to $500 or more each month. In more serious situations,surgery might be required,which can run into the thousands.
- Danes are one of the top five breeds with the highest rates of osteosarcoma,a rapidly advancing bone cancer. The expenses associated with the diagnosis and treatment of this condition canexceed $10,000.
- This breed is particulary susceptible to several inherited eye issues such entropion,cherry eye,and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Surgery,which costs up to $1,500 per eye,is frequently necessary to treat entropion and cherry eye,two conditions affecting the eyelids. Unfortunately,there’s no treatment for PRA.
- Addison’s disease(hypoadrenocorticism),which forms from the decrease in corticosteroid secretion from the adrenal gland,is common in young to middle-aged female Great Danes. Initial testing and diagnosis can range from $500 to $1,500. This condition requires lifelong medication,costing from $50-$200 per month.Regular monitoring of blood and urine is another added cost.
- Wobbler syndromeis a neurological disease that affects their cervical spine at the neck,resulting in a wobbling gait and possible eventual paralysis. Surgery and post-op physical therapy are often recommended,with the average cost at $4,000 or more.
- Great Danes have a genetic tendency to develop skin allergies and infections,including conditions like canine atopic dermatitis,lick granuloma,hyperkeratosis of the foot pads,pododermatitis,and others. The expenses associated with managing allergies and skin problems can reach hundreds of dollars each year.
- Great Danes are prone to ear infectionsbecause their floppy ears can hold moisture,which encourages the growth of yeast and bacteria. The costs for diagnostic tests,medications,and both initial and follow-up vet appointments can reach $500 or even higher for each infection.
- Danes are predisposed to a heart condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM),which leads to the weakening and enlargement of the heart. Surgery,with costs ranging from $10,000 to $20,000,is essential to prevent heart failure in severe cases of DCM.
- Tricuspid valve dysplasia (TVD)is a congenital heart condition that is notably more common in Great Danes compared to many other dog breeds. Managing TVD involves regular echocardiogram check-ups ($500 each)and ongoing medication that ranges from $100 to $200 monthly.
- Degenerative myelopathy (DM)is a progressive neurological condition that leads to weakness and,ultimately,a loss of hind leg function. Although there is no cure,consistent physical therapy and dietary supplements,which can cost $500 or more each month,may help to slow down the progression of DM.
- Hypothyroidismoccurs when the body doesn’t produce enough hormones. This common condition in Danes requires lifelong medication and check-ups. Monthly medication costs $20 to $50,initial tests range from $50 to $150,and annual retesting costs $50 to $100.
- Gingival hyperplasia,or the overgrowth or thickening of the gums,is another common issue in Danes. Treatment,costing $250 to $350,entails an oral examination,dental x-rays,and surgical excision (gingivectomy) to restore the gum tissue.
- Great Danes are also prone to happy tail syndrome,which occurs when dogs repeatedly injure their tails from banging them on doorways and other hard surfaces. In many cases,partial tail amputation is required,with surgical costs ranging from $500 to $600.
Is Pet Insurance Worth It For Great Danes?
The simple answer is yes. According to a Breed Health Survey by the Great Dane Club,over half of pet owners and breeders reported health problems in their Danes. The most common issues were dilated cardiomyopathy,bone cancer,gastric torsion (bloat),arthritis,entropion,cherry eye,and wobbler syndrome.
Given that numerous prevalent health issues in Great Danes can lead to significant expenses,having pet insurance is essential.This coverage allows owners to significantly reduce the financial strain associated with medical care. It’s crucial to take action and secure insurance for your dog before any medical emergencies or hereditary conditions arise.Keep in mind that pre-existing health issues may not be covered,so it’s vital to insure your dog as soon as possible.
5 Steps To Find The Best Pet Insurance For Great Danes
When selecting the perfect insurance plan for your Great Dane,these are the key factors to consider.
- Research the reputation of various insurance companies. Established pet insurance providers usually offer more reliability compared to newer ones.
- Take into account all potential health concernsthat Great Danes might face,and thoroughly review the policy details on how these issues are addressed.
- Decide whether you want accident-only coverage or a plan that includes both accidents and illnesses.
- Familiarize yourself with the average processing times for claims and how each provider manages their reimbursement process.
- Gather quotesfrom at least three different insurance companies to evaluate the costs effectively.
Methodology
To determine the best pet insurance for Great Danes,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 point out 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.
