Dog Breeds / Shetland Sheepdog
Best Pet Insurance for Shetland Sheepdogs (2026)
Shetland Sheepdogs are intelligent, eager-to-please herding dogs with beautiful coats. They're prone to eye conditions, hip dysplasia, and thyroid problems. Insurance helps manage these hereditary conditions.
See Top Picks →🏆 Our Top Picks for Shetland Sheepdogs
Embrace
Best for hereditary conditions
Healthy Paws
Best unlimited coverage
Pets Best
Best value option
Why Shetland Sheepdogs Need Insurance
Shelties face Collie Eye Anomaly, dermatomyositis (skin/muscle disease), and hip dysplasia. Multiple hereditary conditions make insurance valuable for this breed.
Common Health Issues & Costs
| Condition | What It Is | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Collie Eye Anomaly | Hereditary eye defect | $500 - $2,000 |
| Hip Dysplasia | Joint malformation | $3,500 - $7,000 |
| Dermatomyositis | Skin and muscle disease | $500 - $2,000/year |
| Hypothyroidism | Underactive thyroid | $200 - $600/year |
| Von Willebrand Disease | Blood clotting disorder | $500 - $3,000 |
| Patent Ductus Arteriosus | Heart defect | $2,500 - $5,000 |
What to Look For in Shetland Sheepdog Insurance
✓ Must-Have Coverage
- Eye condition coverage — CEA is hereditary
- Orthopedic coverage — Hip dysplasia occurs
- Chronic condition coverage — Skin/thyroid issues ongoing
- Hereditary condition coverage — Multiple genetic risks
✗ Red Flags to Avoid
- Eye condition exclusions
- Hereditary exclusions
- Long orthopedic waits
- Low annual limits
Best Insurance Providers for Shetland Sheepdogs
Embrace
Best for Hereditary Conditions
$32-52/mo
estimated monthly
Embrace offers comprehensive hereditary coverage important for Shelties with multiple genetic health risks.
Pros
- Excellent hereditary coverage
- 6-month orthopedic wait
- Good prescription coverage
- Eye conditions covered
Cons
- Annual limits apply
- Wellness costs extra
Healthy Paws
Best Unlimited Coverage
$35-55/mo
estimated monthly
No caps mean your Sheltie's eye treatment, hip surgery, or any condition is fully covered.
Pros
- No annual limits
- Covers hereditary conditions
- Fast claims
- No per-condition caps
Cons
- No wellness coverage
- 12-month hip wait
Pets Best
Best Value Option
$28-48/mo
estimated monthly
Good coverage at competitive prices for Sheltie owners.
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Covers hereditary conditions
- Multiple plans
- Unlimited available
Cons
- Some claim delays
- Service varies
How Much Does Shetland Sheepdog Insurance Cost?
Shetland Sheepdogs have moderate insurance costs. Here's what to expect:
Puppy (8 weeks - 1 year)
$26 - $42/month
Adult (1-9 years)
$32 - $58/month
Senior (10+ years)
$52 - $90+/month
* Estimates based on average rates. Actual cost depends on your location, chosen deductible, reimbursement level, and coverage limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pet insurance worth it for a Sheltie?
Yes. Shelties have multiple hereditary conditions including eye disease, hip dysplasia, and skin disorders. Insurance helps manage these genetic health risks.
What is Collie Eye Anomaly?
CEA is a hereditary condition affecting eye development. Severity varies from mild to severe vision impairment. Genetic testing identifies carriers.
What is dermatomyositis?
A hereditary skin and muscle disease causing lesions and muscle wasting. It requires ongoing management. Shelties and Collies are predisposed.
How long do Shelties live?
12-14 years typically. Their longevity makes insurance a good long-term investment.
Should I get my Sheltie genetically tested?
Yes—tests exist for CEA, vWD, and MDR1 drug sensitivity. Reputable breeders test their dogs.
Protect Your Shetland Sheepdog
Protect your Sheltie from hereditary health issues. Compare quotes today.
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