Dog Breeds / Chihuahua
Best Pet Insurance for Chihuahuas (2026)
Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed but can have big health bills. Dental disease, knee problems, and heart conditions are common. Their tiny size also makes them vulnerable to injuries from falls or accidents.
See Top Picks →🏆 Our Top Picks for Chihuahuas
Embrace
Best for small breeds (dental, heart covered)
Pumpkin
Best dental coverage
Pets Best
Best budget option
Why Chihuahuas Need Insurance
Chihuahuas are prone to luxating patella (knee surgery can cost $3,500), heart disease, and severe dental problems. Their long lifespan (14-18 years) means more time for issues to develop.
Common Health Issues & Costs
| Condition | What It Is | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Disease | Severe crowding and decay | $500 - $2,500 |
| Luxating Patella | Kneecap dislocation | $1,500 - $3,500 |
| Heart Disease (MVD) | Mitral valve disease | $3,000 - $10,000 |
| Hypoglycemia | Low blood sugar | $500 - $2,000 |
| Collapsed Trachea | Windpipe weakness | $2,000 - $5,000 |
| Hydrocephalus | Fluid on brain | $5,000 - $10,000 |
What to Look For in Chihuahua Insurance
✓ Must-Have Coverage
- Orthopedic coverage — Luxating patella is extremely common
- Heart condition coverage — MVD affects many Chihuahuas
- Dental illness coverage — Their teeth are a major issue
- Accident coverage — Tiny dogs get injured easily
✗ Red Flags to Avoid
- Dental exclusions
- Congenital heart condition exclusions
- Bilateral exclusions on knees
- Minimum weight requirements
Best Insurance Providers for Chihuahuas
Embrace
Best for Small Breeds
$28-45/mo
estimated monthly
Embrace covers dental illness, hereditary heart conditions, and has a shorter orthopedic waiting period. Perfect for Chihuahuas with their multiple health concerns.
Pros
- Covers dental illness
- Covers hereditary heart conditions
- 6-month orthopedic wait
- Good chronic condition coverage
Cons
- Annual limits apply
- Wellness costs extra
Pumpkin
Best Dental Coverage
$25-42/mo
estimated monthly
Pumpkin's standard dental illness coverage is crucial for Chihuahuas. Their tiny mouths guarantee dental problems—you'll use this coverage.
Pros
- Dental illness included
- 90% reimbursement available
- Covers hereditary conditions
- No breed restrictions
Cons
- Newer company
- Annual limits apply
Pets Best
Best Budget Option
$22-40/mo
estimated monthly
For budget-conscious Chihuahua owners, Pets Best offers competitive rates for small dogs while still covering the important stuff.
Pros
- Lower premiums for small dogs
- Multiple plan options
- Covers congenital conditions
- No annual limit options
Cons
- Dental coverage varies
- Some customer service complaints
How Much Does Chihuahua Insurance Cost?
Chihuahuas are among the cheapest breeds to insure. Here's what to expect:
Puppy (8 weeks - 1 year)
$18 - $32/month
Adult (1-7 years)
$25 - $50/month
Senior (8+ years)
$45 - $85+/month
* Estimates based on average rates. Actual cost depends on your location, chosen deductible, reimbursement level, and coverage limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Chihuahuas expensive to insure?
No, Chihuahuas are among the cheapest breeds to insure—typically $25-50/month. Their small size means lower surgery costs, though dental and heart issues can still be expensive.
Why do Chihuahuas have dental problems?
Their tiny jaws can't accommodate all their teeth properly, leading to severe crowding, decay, and gum disease. Many Chihuahuas need teeth extracted. Look for insurance covering dental illness.
Is pet insurance worth it for a Chihuahua?
Yes. Despite low premiums, Chihuahuas commonly need knee surgery ($3,000+), heart treatment, and dental work. Their long lifespan (14-18 years) means more opportunity for issues.
What is luxating patella?
A condition where the kneecap slides out of place, causing pain and lameness. It's very common in Chihuahuas and other toy breeds. Surgery costs $1,500-$3,500 per knee.
Do Chihuahuas have heart problems?
Yes, Chihuahuas are prone to mitral valve disease, a progressive heart condition. It's manageable with medication but can require expensive treatment. Insurance with heart coverage is important.
Protect Your Chihuahua
Protect your tiny Chihuahua from big vet bills. Compare quotes and find affordable coverage today.
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