Dog Breeds / English Bulldog
Best Pet Insurance for English Bulldogs (2026)
English Bulldogs are lovable, stubborn, and extremely prone to health problems. Their flat faces, stocky build, and wrinkled skin create a perfect storm of medical issues. Insurance isn't optional for this breed—it's essential.
See Top Picks →🏆 Our Top Picks for English Bulldogs
Embrace
Best overall (covers hereditary conditions, shorter ortho wait)
Healthy Paws
Best for unlimited coverage (no caps on claims)
Trupanion
Best for direct vet payment
Why English Bulldogs Need Insurance
English Bulldogs are one of the most expensive breeds to insure because they're one of the most expensive breeds to treat. Most Bulldogs will need significant veterinary care during their lifetime.
Common Health Issues & Costs
| Condition | What It Is | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| BOAS | Breathing issues from flat face | $2,000 - $5,000 |
| Hip Dysplasia | Joint malformation | $3,500 - $7,000 |
| Cherry Eye | Prolapsed tear gland | $500 - $1,500 |
| Skin Fold Dermatitis | Infections in wrinkles | $200 - $1,000/year |
| Heart Disease | Pulmonic stenosis | $5,000 - $20,000 |
| Luxating Patella | Kneecap dislocation | $1,500 - $3,000 |
What to Look For in English Bulldog Insurance
✓ Must-Have Coverage
- Respiratory condition coverage — BOAS surgery is common and expensive
- Orthopedic coverage with short waiting period — Hip and joint issues are frequent
- Skin condition coverage — Ongoing infections need treatment
- No breed-specific exclusions — Some insurers limit Bulldog coverage
✗ Red Flags to Avoid
- Policies that exclude brachycephalic conditions
- 12+ month orthopedic waiting periods
- Annual limits under $15,000 (one surgery can exceed $10k)
- Bilateral exclusions that affect both hips
Best Insurance Providers for English Bulldogs
Embrace
Best Overall for English Bulldogs
$75-100/mo
estimated monthly
Embrace offers the best combination of coverage and waiting periods for Bulldogs. Their 6-month orthopedic wait (vs 12 months elsewhere) is crucial for a breed this prone to joint issues.
Pros
- Only 6-month orthopedic waiting period
- Covers hereditary conditions fully
- Diminishing deductible saves money
- Covers BOAS treatment
Cons
- Higher premiums for Bulldogs
- Wellness plan costs extra
Healthy Paws
Best for Unlimited Coverage
$70-95/mo
estimated monthly
If you want no caps on what insurance will pay, Healthy Paws is your best bet. For a breed that can rack up $20k+ in lifetime vet bills, unlimited coverage provides real peace of mind.
Pros
- No annual or lifetime limits
- Fast claim processing
- Covers hereditary conditions
- No caps on cancer treatment
Cons
- No wellness coverage option
- 12-month hip dysplasia wait
Trupanion
Best for Direct Vet Payment
$80-110/mo
estimated monthly
Trupanion can pay your vet directly so you don't have to front thousands of dollars for surgery. For expensive Bulldog procedures, this is a huge benefit.
Pros
- Pays vet directly at checkout
- No payout limits
- Covers congenital conditions
- One deductible per condition for life
Cons
- Only 90% reimbursement option
- Higher premiums for Bulldogs
How Much Does English Bulldog Insurance Cost?
English Bulldogs are among the most expensive breeds to insure. Here's what to budget:
Puppy (8 weeks - 1 year)
$55 - $80/month
Adult (1-7 years)
$70 - $100/month
Senior (8+ years)
$100 - $175+/month
* Estimates based on average rates. Actual cost depends on your location, chosen deductible, reimbursement level, and coverage limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is English Bulldog insurance so expensive?
Bulldogs have more health issues than almost any breed. Their flat faces cause breathing problems, their body structure leads to joint issues, and their skin folds cause infections. Insurers price based on expected claims—and Bulldogs file a lot of them.
Is pet insurance worth it for an English Bulldog?
Absolutely. The question isn't if your Bulldog will need expensive care, but when. BOAS surgery alone costs $5,000+, and most Bulldogs need some medical intervention. Insurance typically pays for itself within 1-2 years.
What's the best age to insure my English Bulldog?
As young as possible—ideally 8-12 weeks. This ensures no pre-existing conditions are documented and waiting periods finish before issues typically emerge around age 2-4.
Will insurance cover my Bulldog's breathing surgery?
Most comprehensive policies cover BOAS surgery as long as it wasn't a pre-existing condition. Get insurance before any vet documents breathing concerns. Embrace, Healthy Paws, and Trupanion all cover this.
Are there companies that won't insure English Bulldogs?
Most major pet insurers cover Bulldogs, but some may have breed-specific exclusions or waiting periods. Always confirm coverage details before purchasing. Avoid any policy that excludes brachycephalic conditions.
Protect Your English Bulldog
English Bulldogs need insurance more than almost any breed. Don't wait until health problems start—compare quotes and protect your Bulldog today.
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