Dog Breeds / Dachshund
Best Pet Insurance for Dachshunds (2026)
Dachshunds' adorable long bodies come with a serious downside: back problems. Up to 25% of Dachshunds develop Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), which can require surgery costing $10,000. Insurance is essential for this breed.
See Top Picks →🏆 Our Top Picks for Dachshunds
Embrace
Best for IVDD (6-month ortho wait, covers rehab)
Healthy Paws
Best unlimited coverage (no caps on surgery)
Petplan
Best for alternative therapy coverage
Why Dachshunds Need Insurance
Dachshunds have one of the highest rates of back problems of any breed. IVDD surgery is expensive and common. Add in dental issues and obesity-related problems, and insurance becomes a smart investment.
Common Health Issues & Costs
| Condition | What It Is | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| IVDD | Back/spine disc disease | $4,000 - $10,000 |
| Obesity | Weight issues worsen back problems | Varies |
| Dental Disease | Teeth crowding and decay | $500 - $2,000 |
| Luxating Patella | Kneecap dislocation | $1,500 - $3,500 |
| Cushing's Disease | Hormonal disorder | $1,000 - $5,000 |
| PRA | Progressive eye disease | $1,000 - $3,000 |
What to Look For in Dachshund Insurance
✓ Must-Have Coverage
- IVDD/back surgery coverage — This is the #1 concern for Dachshunds
- Short orthopedic waiting period — 6 months beats 12 months
- No spinal condition exclusions — Some policies exclude back issues
- Physical therapy coverage — Rehab is often needed after back surgery
✗ Red Flags to Avoid
- Spinal/back condition exclusions
- 12+ month orthopedic waiting periods
- Bilateral exclusions (if one disc herniates, others may follow)
- Physical therapy exclusions
Best Insurance Providers for Dachshunds
Embrace
Best for IVDD Coverage
$45-65/mo
estimated monthly
Embrace has only a 6-month orthopedic waiting period (vs 12 months elsewhere) and covers physical therapy. For a breed where back surgery is likely, this matters.
Pros
- Only 6-month orthopedic wait
- Covers physical therapy
- Covers hereditary conditions
- Diminishing deductible
Cons
- Annual limits apply
- Wellness costs extra
Healthy Paws
Best Unlimited Coverage
$40-60/mo
estimated monthly
No limits on what they'll pay means your Dachshund's $10,000 back surgery is fully covered. For a high-risk breed, unlimited coverage provides peace of mind.
Pros
- No annual or lifetime limits
- Covers IVDD surgery fully
- Fast claims processing
- No per-incident caps
Cons
- 12-month orthopedic wait
- No physical therapy coverage
Petplan
Best Alternative Therapy Coverage
$45-70/mo
estimated monthly
Petplan covers acupuncture and rehabilitation—helpful for Dachshunds recovering from back problems. Also covers dental illness, which is common in the breed.
Pros
- Covers acupuncture and rehab
- Dental illness covered
- Hereditary conditions covered
- Good chronic condition coverage
Cons
- Annual limits apply
- Higher premiums possible
How Much Does Dachshund Insurance Cost?
Dachshunds have moderate insurance costs despite their back problem risks. Here's what to expect:
Puppy (8 weeks - 1 year)
$30 - $50/month
Adult (1-7 years)
$40 - $70/month
Senior (8+ years)
$65 - $110+/month
* Estimates based on average rates. Actual cost depends on your location, chosen deductible, reimbursement level, and coverage limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Dachshunds prone to back problems?
Their elongated spine and short legs put tremendous stress on intervertebral discs. About 1 in 4 Dachshunds will experience IVDD in their lifetime, making back surgery coverage essential.
Is pet insurance worth it for a Dachshund?
Highly recommended. IVDD surgery costs $4,000-$10,000, and many Dachshunds need it. Given the high likelihood of back issues, insurance typically pays for itself with this breed.
Does insurance cover IVDD surgery?
Most comprehensive policies cover IVDD as long as it's not pre-existing. Check orthopedic waiting periods—some insurers require 12 months before covering spinal issues. Embrace only requires 6 months.
How can I reduce my Dachshund's back problems?
Keep them at a healthy weight (crucial!), use ramps instead of stairs, prevent jumping on/off furniture, and support their back when carrying them. Even with precautions, insurance is still recommended.
Should I get dental coverage for my Dachshund?
Dental illness coverage can be valuable for Dachshunds since their small mouths are prone to crowding and decay. Embrace and Pumpkin include dental illness coverage in their standard plans.
Protect Your Dachshund
Protect your Dachshund's back—and your wallet. Compare insurance quotes and find coverage before problems start.
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