Top 10 Dog Insurance Claims in the USA for 2025

Dog insurance provides essential financial relief by covering unexpected veterinary expenses when your cherished dog faces illness or injury. In many U.S. policies, coverage can also include liability for accidents or damage your pet may cause, offering additional security against hefty bills. While veterinary costs can be significant, liability claims can sometimes surpass these vet expenses by a wide margin.

Many American dog owners see pet insurance as a smart investment to help handle unpredictable medical costs. However, it’s important to keep in mind that most policies exclude pre-existing conditions known before purchase, routine or preventable illnesses, and specific high-risk activities such as breeding or show participation.

Understanding and selecting the best dog insurance requires careful evaluation of coverage limits, claim reimbursements, pricing, and plan details to suit your lifestyle and budget. Whether you already have coverage or are shopping for a policy, it's useful to know which conditions U.S. dog owners claim most often and how insurance payouts generally work.

Based on recent U.S. veterinary data and common claims in 2025, this article outlines the top 10 dog insurance claims in the United States, spotlighting typical conditions covered and what you might expect when filing a claim.

1. Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia is a predominant cause of front leg lameness, especially affecting larger breeds such as German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers. This painful joint condition often demands costly treatments, including surgery, physical therapy, and long-term care, with expenses sometimes reaching several thousands of dollars.

2. Dental Disease

Dental problems, including periodontal disease, tartar accumulation, and tooth decay, are frequent reasons for claims. Treatments often involve professional dental cleanings, extractions, or ongoing oral care—highlighting the value of maintaining your dog’s dental hygiene with regular veterinarian checkups.

3. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs occur in dogs of all breeds and ages and usually require prompt veterinary diagnosis and management, typically with antibiotics. Early detection and treatment can reduce complications, making UTIs a common claim among dog owners.

4. Arthritis

As dogs grow older, arthritis becomes a widespread chronic joint ailment causing stiffness and discomfort. Insurance claims frequently cover medications, joint supplements, physical therapy, and pain management to enhance mobility and quality of life.

5. Poisoning and Toxic Exposures

Ingesting toxic substances like chocolate, grapes, certain household plants, or chemicals can lead to severe health emergencies. Emergency care costs, hospitalization, and extended treatment for poisoning cases can easily total several thousand dollars in veterinary bills.

6. Skin Conditions

Chronic skin issues such as allergies, dermatitis, and bacterial or fungal infections are common claim triggers. These often require multiple veterinary visits, prescription treatments, and long-term management strategies to keep symptoms under control.

7. Ear Infections

Dogs with floppy ears or those frequently exposed to water and outdoor environments are prone to persistent ear infections. These infections cause discomfort and often necessitate repeated veterinary care, making them frequent claims among U.S. dog owners.

8. Gastrointestinal Problems

Digestive troubles including vomiting, diarrhea, and food sensitivities can affect dogs and lead to veterinary visits. These conditions may require diagnostic tests, meds, and tailored diets to manage symptoms effectively.

9. Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia, similar to elbow dysplasia, predominantly impacts large breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Rottweilers in the U.S. It can cause serious mobility issues, often requiring surgical interventions or lifelong medical management with significant costs.

10. Eye Conditions

Eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, or injuries are notable causes of insurance claims. Some breeds—like Pug puppies—are predisposed to eye disorders due to their anatomy and require attentive care.

Claims for these conditions highlight routine health challenges dog owners face across the United States and emphasize the importance of having pet insurance to handle expensive treatments. With an estimated 3.5 million insured dogs in the U.S. and an average claim payout around $1,000 in 2025, coverage plays a critical role in supporting many pet families through unexpected medical costs.

Being a responsible pet owner also means prioritizing preventive measures, such as annual veterinary exams, dental cleanings, maintaining healthy weight, and understanding breed-specific health risks prevalent in the USA. When choosing insurance, check details on lifelong coverage options, hereditary condition clauses, and whether dental care is included.

By staying informed on the most frequently claimed dog health issues and insurance coverage details, you can plan better for your pet’s medical needs and safeguard your finances.