AKC Pet Insurance 2025: In-Depth Review of Plans, Benefits & Drawbacks
Our expert's opinion on AKC
AKC Pet Insurance, underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company, offers modular plans for dogs and cats in the US, with options ranging from basic accident and illness coverage to expanded benefits like exam fees, hereditary condition protection, alternative therapies, wellness/preventative care, and breeder-related medical costs. AKC stands out among mid-tier pet insurers by providing coverage for both curable and select incurable pre-existing conditions after 365 days of continuous coverage (subject to state approval), with adjustable deductibles, variable annual limits, and custom reimbursement rates; its pricing and breadth of add-ons position it between entry-level budget providers and premium reimbursement plans. This policy is especially attractive to owners of young pets, purebred animals, breeders, and those seeking comprehensive coverage for pre-existing conditions and wellness with tailored budgets. The insurer is financially stable, operating nationwide, and processed over 1,000 Trustpilot reviews (3.6/5), with claims typically reimbursed within a few weeks when documentation is provided. While customer service and modularity receive high marks, complaints center on denied claims (often for technicalities or pre-existing reasons) and abrupt premium hikes, so prospective buyers should scrutinize policy specifics and monitor renewal terms.
- ✅Coverage for curable/inselect pre-existing conditions after 365 days
- ✅Customizable limits, deductibles, and reimbursement percentages
- ✅Unique add-ons: hereditary, breeding, wellness, alternative therapy
- ✅24/7 vet support and TailTrax health app
- ✅Flexible cancellation and upgrade/downgrade options
- ✅Strong AKC partnership and US-wide presence
- ✅Quick quote and enrollment, responsive customer service
- ❌Trustpilot rating average (3.6/5 from 1,077 reviews)
- ❌Frequent claim denials for technical or pre-existing grounds
- ❌Sudden and steep premium increases reported
- ❌Not fully digital or paperless for claims
- ❌State limitations for pre-existing coverage
- ✅Coverage for curable/inselect pre-existing conditions after 365 days
- ✅Customizable limits, deductibles, and reimbursement percentages
- ✅Unique add-ons: hereditary, breeding, wellness, alternative therapy
- ✅24/7 vet support and TailTrax health app
- ✅Flexible cancellation and upgrade/downgrade options
- ✅Strong AKC partnership and US-wide presence
- ✅Quick quote and enrollment, responsive customer service
Our expert's opinion on AKC
ScoreAKC Pet Insurance, underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company, offers modular plans for dogs and cats in the US, with options ranging from basic accident and illness coverage to expanded benefits like exam fees, hereditary condition protection, alternative therapies, wellness/preventative care, and breeder-related medical costs. AKC stands out among mid-tier pet insurers by providing coverage for both curable and select incurable pre-existing conditions after 365 days of continuous coverage (subject to state approval), with adjustable deductibles, variable annual limits, and custom reimbursement rates; its pricing and breadth of add-ons position it between entry-level budget providers and premium reimbursement plans. This policy is especially attractive to owners of young pets, purebred animals, breeders, and those seeking comprehensive coverage for pre-existing conditions and wellness with tailored budgets. The insurer is financially stable, operating nationwide, and processed over 1,000 Trustpilot reviews (3.6/5), with claims typically reimbursed within a few weeks when documentation is provided. While customer service and modularity receive high marks, complaints center on denied claims (often for technicalities or pre-existing reasons) and abrupt premium hikes, so prospective buyers should scrutinize policy specifics and monitor renewal terms.
- ✅Coverage for curable/inselect pre-existing conditions after 365 days
- ✅Customizable limits, deductibles, and reimbursement percentages
- ✅Unique add-ons: hereditary, breeding, wellness, alternative therapy
- ✅24/7 vet support and TailTrax health app
- ✅Flexible cancellation and upgrade/downgrade options
- ✅Strong AKC partnership and US-wide presence
- ✅Quick quote and enrollment, responsive customer service
- ❌Trustpilot rating average (3.6/5 from 1,077 reviews)
- ❌Frequent claim denials for technical or pre-existing grounds
- ❌Sudden and steep premium increases reported
- ❌Not fully digital or paperless for claims
- ❌State limitations for pre-existing coverage
- ✅Coverage for curable/inselect pre-existing conditions after 365 days
- ✅Customizable limits, deductibles, and reimbursement percentages
- ✅Unique add-ons: hereditary, breeding, wellness, alternative therapy
- ✅24/7 vet support and TailTrax health app
- ✅Flexible cancellation and upgrade/downgrade options
- ✅Strong AKC partnership and US-wide presence
- ✅Quick quote and enrollment, responsive customer service
- AKC Coverages
- AKC Exclusions
- AKC Prices
- AKC Assistance
- Customer Reviews of the AKC
- Contacting the American Kennel Club
- FAQ
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AKC Coverages
AKC Pet Insurance offers fully customizable plans for dogs and cats, allowing policyholders to select accident and illness or accident-only coverage, with multiple add-ons like wellness, hereditary conditions, alternative medicine, and breeder support.
Reimbursement rates range from 70% to 90%, annual limits from $2,500 to unlimited, and annual deductibles start at $100, with wellness care and exam fee coverage available only through specific add-ons.
AKC stands out for industry-leading pre-existing condition coverage after 365 days of continuous coverage (not available in all states), and unique options for breeders and alternative therapies.
However, preventive care, dental treatment (beyond certain accidents), euthanasia benefits, and exam fees are excluded from base plans and only accessible via separate riders, while prescription diets, certain congenital conditions, and specific reproduction costs remain excluded even with add-ons.
The main weaknesses involve claim denial rates for technical reasons, sudden premium increases, and variation in benefit availability depending on the state.
| Name of coverage | AKC Customizable Plan |
|---|---|
| Plan positioning | Customizable: accident, illness, add-ons |
| Type of coverage (accident, illness, both, etc.) | Accident & illness or accident-only |
| Animals covered (dogs, cats, other) | Dogs and cats only |
| Reimbursement rate (%) | 70%, 80%, or 90% (customizable) |
| Annual reimbursement limit | $2,500 to unlimited (customizable) |
| Deductible (annual or per claim) | Annual, $100+ (customizable) |
| Age limits for enrollment (for dogs and cats) | NC |
| Pre-enrollment health questionnaire | NC |
| Waiting period (illness) | 14 days |
| Waiting period (accident) | 2 days |
| Lifetime coverage once subscribed | ✅ as long as policy is active |
| Vet consultations (regular + emergency) | Add-on required (ExamPlus) |
| Medications | ✅ |
| Hospitalization | ✅ |
| Surgery (including anesthesia) | ✅ |
| Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound, lab tests) | ✅ |
| Dental care (includes scaling and procedures) | Add-on or accidents only |
| Preventive care package (vaccines, antiparasitics, spaying/neutering, ID/microchipping) | Add-on (Defender/DefenderPlus) |
| Alternative medicine (osteopathy, acupuncture, etc.) | Add-on (AlternativePlus) |
| Travel coverage (countries included, duration) | USA, territories, Canada |
| Civil liability | ❌ |
| Euthanasia | Add-on (SupportPlus) |
| Death & cremation coverage | Add-on (SupportPlus) |
| Theft or loss of pet + search expenses | ❌ |
| Boarding fees (if owner is hospitalized) | ❌ |
Important Plan Details
Claim submission limit: 180 days post-treatment.
Wellness add-ons (Defender/DefenderPlus) have set annual maximums per act—no deductible/co-insurance applies.
Pre-existing conditions may become eligible after 365 days continuous coverage, subject to terms.
Plan availability and some benefits may vary by state.
AKC Exclusions
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Medical exclusions | • Pre-existing conditions (unless covered after 365 days; subject to state availability) • Bilateral conditions if present before coverage • IVDD and cruciate ligament with prior symptoms • Undiagnosed/ongoing issues • Dental care except post-accident extraction (unless specific add-on) • Preventive medicine, vaccines, antiparasitics (unless preventive rider) • Experimental treatments, prosthetics • Prescription diets except for one-time medically necessary treatment • Chronic obesity without medical cause • Major hereditary/congenital diseases unless HereditaryPlus add-on |
| Reproduction & breeding | • Costs relating to breeding, pregnancy, whelping, nursing unless Breeder Coverage • Scheduled c-sections, artificial insemination, elective procedures |
| Cosmetic/non-medical | • Cosmetic procedures (tail docking, dewclaw removal, ear cropping, declawing) • Grooming, routine hygiene, or non-medical bathing |
| Administrative/Non-care | • Administrative, taxes, disposal, and medical waste fees not directly tied to care • Boarding, travel (non-emergency), air ambulance (except declared emergencies) |
| Behavioral & risk | • Injuries or illness caused by neglect, intentional acts, or predictable/repetitive events • Injuries from racing, fighting, or illegal activities • Injuries during war, government action, or pandemic |
| Examination & consultation | • Physical exams and consultation fees not covered unless ExamPlus is purchased • Exams not linked to a specific illness or injury |
| Geographic & legal | • Acts or claims outside the US/Canada coverage area • When regulatory requirements are not met • Simultaneous policies for the same pet prohibited |
| Death/End-of-life | • Euthanasia, cremation, autopsy unless SupportPlus is added |
• Bilateral conditions if present before coverage
• IVDD and cruciate ligament with prior symptoms
• Undiagnosed/ongoing issues
• Dental care except post-accident extraction (unless specific add-on)
• Preventive medicine, vaccines, antiparasitics (unless preventive rider)
• Experimental treatments, prosthetics
• Prescription diets except for one-time medically necessary treatment
• Chronic obesity without medical cause
• Major hereditary/congenital diseases unless HereditaryPlus add-on
• Scheduled c-sections, artificial insemination, elective procedures
• Grooming, routine hygiene, or non-medical bathing
• Boarding, travel (non-emergency), air ambulance (except declared emergencies)
• Injuries from racing, fighting, or illegal activities
• Injuries during war, government action, or pandemic
• Exams not linked to a specific illness or injury
• When regulatory requirements are not met
• Simultaneous policies for the same pet prohibited
AKC Prices
Overall, AKC sits in a mid-range pricing position relative to other national pet insurers, balancing moderate monthly premiums with broad base coverage that can be flexibly enhanced via optional add-ons.
Reimbursement rates and deductible levels are highly customizable, but adding coverage for hereditary conditions, wellness, exams, or end-of-life services will noticeably raise premiums compared to more basic plans.
AKC is not a pure digital provider, so administrative efficiencies are less evident than with online-first insurers who may offer lower prices for more limited coverage.
Its distinct strengths include industry-best extended coverage for pre-existing conditions (after 365 days continuous coverage) and dedicated breeder support, justifying a higher premium for those seeking highly tailored protection.
| CompanionCare Essential | CompanionCare Plus | CompanionCare (with all major add-ons) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young cat (2–4 years) | $18/month | $22/month | $34/month |
| Senior cat (7–8 years) | $28/month | $35/month | $52/month |
| Small breed dog | $22/month | $26/month | $40/month |
| Small breed dog (2–4 years) | $20/month | $25/month | $38/month |
| Large breed dog (2–4 years) | $33/month | $39/month | $59/month |
| Senior dog (7–8 years) | $52/month | $62/month | $94/month |
AKC Promo Codes
| AKC Promo Codes | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest offers, check our comparison of the best pet insurance providers.
AKC Reimbursement Information
AKC reimburses eligible veterinary expenses for your pet based on your chosen plan’s deductible, reimbursement rate, and annual limit—helping you manage costs for both minor illnesses and major treatments.
Broken Leg Repair Surgery Cost Breakdown
Total cost at the vet: $2,700 (including surgery, hospitalization, prescriptions)
Annual deductible to subtract: $100 (highest-tier plan, e.g., DefenderPlus with low deductible option)
Amount reimbursable after deductible: $2,700 – $100 = $2,600
Reimbursement rate: 90% of $2,600 = $2,340
👉 AKC reimburses $2,340; your out-of-pocket cost is $360.
ℹ️ Once your annual deductible is met, future claims in that year are only reduced by your coinsurance.
Allergy Testing and Treatment Reimbursement
Total charged by the vet: $550 (consultation, allergy testing, prescription)
Deductible already met through earlier claims
Reimbursement rate: 90% of $550 = $495
👉 You receive a reimbursement of $495; you pay $55 out-of-pocket.
ℹ️ Coinsurance (your share of costs after reimbursement) always applies after the deductible is met.
Annual Wellness Exam and Vaccines (DefenderPlus Wellness add-on)
Total vet cost: $180 (comprehensive wellness exam + core vaccinations)
No deductible or coinsurance for wellness with the DefenderPlus rider (annual limit applies)
Reimbursement: Up to $150 for spay/neuter or cleaning, $50 for exam, $40 for vaccines, etc.—up to the category max
👉 For $180 spent, you’re reimbursed up to $140 (exam + vaccines limits), so you pay $40 out-of-pocket.
ℹ️ Each preventive care benefit has an annual maximum—amounts above those limits are not reimbursed.
AKC Assistance
| Assistance AKC | Available? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Advance payment | ❌ | N.C. |
| Payment facilities | ❌ | Premiums are paid monthly or annually; no special no-fee installment options are advertised. |
| Mobile app | ✅ | TailTrax app available (iOS, Android). Allows claims, view/manage health records, and insurance documents. UX and interface ratings not widely distinguished from competitors. |
| Paperless claims process | ✅ | Claims can be filed online, by email, fax, or through the app. Most reimbursement is paperless. |
| Emergency vet service | ✅ | 24/7 veterinary helpline (phone/chat access) available with standard plans. No teleconsultation or video feature. |
| Vet/clinic partner network | ❌ | No dedicated network; owners may use any licensed vet in the US or Canada. |
| Coverage abroad | ✅ | Insured in the US, US territories, and Canada only. No coverage elsewhere or for travel/emergencies abroad. |
Allows claims, view/manage health records, and insurance documents.
UX and interface ratings not widely distinguished from competitors.
Most reimbursement is paperless.
No teleconsultation or video feature.
No coverage elsewhere or for travel/emergencies abroad.
Customer Reviews of the AKC
| Review platform | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 3.6/5 (1,077 reviews) |
We analyzed reviews from the sites listed above. On the positive side, customers who subscribed to AKC for their pets often mention:
- ✅ A polite and knowledgeable customer service staff, with specific staff members frequently praised for assistance and support.
- ✅ A fast and straightforward claims process for many users, including prompt claim payments and reimbursements.
- ✅ A user-friendly mobile app with features for managing claims and policy documents.
- ✅ The addition of flexible policy add-ons, including wellness and hereditary condition coverage, is highly valued.
- ✅ 24/7 veterinary support via phone or chat is viewed as a differentiator for pet owners seeking advice.
On the negative side:
- ❌ A noticeable number of claims denied, especially when related to pre-existing conditions or technical issues with documentation.
- ❌ Reports of sudden, significant premium increases without prior notice, causing affordability concerns for long-term policyholders.
- ❌ Some account cancellations reportedly occurred with minimal communication, especially after payment issues.
- ❌ Complaints about lack of transparency in changes to policy rates or bundled coverage.
- ❌ Frustrations with the appeals process and claim denials over perceived technicalities, such as format of submitted vet records.
Contacting the American Kennel Club
| AKC Customer Service | Details |
|---|---|
| To get a quote or subscribe online | You can use the HelloSafe pet insurance comparison tool, choose the plan that suits you, and click to get a quote. |
| To request and track a reimbursement | Submit your claim via the AKC member portal, by email ([email protected]), by mail (AKC Pet Insurance, PO Box 2150, Buffalo, NY 14240-2150), or by fax if forms allow. Include completed claim form, detailed invoices, and any required supporting documents. Track claims via the portal. Reimbursement is made by check or direct deposit. Average processing time: typically within a few business days of all documents being received. |
| To obtain a certificate of insurance | Contact by phone at 1-866-725-2747, by email ([email protected]), or request via the AKC member portal. Include your policy details for quick handling. |
| To contact assistance | For general inquiries and 24/7 vet helpline, call 1-866-725-2747 or email [email protected]. Mail: AKC Pet Insurance, PO Box 2150, Buffalo, NY 14240-2150. |
| To cancel my policy | Call 1-866-725-2747 or email [email protected]. Provide your policy number and request cancellation in writing (via email or mail). Notice period: not specified; best to provide advance notice. Written confirmation is recommended for your records. |
Include completed claim form, detailed invoices, and any required supporting documents.
Track claims via the portal.
Reimbursement is made by check or direct deposit.
Average processing time: typically within a few business days of all documents being received.
Include your policy details for quick handling.
Mail: AKC Pet Insurance, PO Box 2150, Buffalo, NY 14240-2150.
Provide your policy number and request cancellation in writing (via email or mail).
Notice period: not specified; best to provide advance notice.
Written confirmation is recommended for your records.
FAQ
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with AKC?
Yes, with AKC Pet Insurance you pay the veterinarian directly at the time of service. After you pay, you submit your claim and eligible expenses are reimbursed by check or direct deposit. Always keep your detailed invoices and receipts for the claim.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with AKC?
You can cancel your AKC policy at any time by contacting customer service via phone or email. If you cancel within the first 30 days and have not filed a claim, you may be eligible for a full refund of the premium paid. Always confirm the cancellation has been processed for your records.
What does AKC Pet Insurance cover and what exclusions should I be aware of?
AKC covers a broad range of illnesses, injuries, surgeries, prescription medications, and hereditary conditions, depending on your plan choices. However, routine preventive care, annual check-ups, most dental cleanings, and certain hereditary and pre-existing conditions are excluded unless additional coverage or riders are purchased.
How do reimbursements work with AKC and what documents do I need?
After paying your vet bill, you submit a claim online, by email, fax, or mail, along with detailed invoices and proof of payment. Reimbursements are made either by check or directly deposited to your bank account.
Are there any special waiting periods or rules about pre-existing condition coverage?
AKC applies a 14-day waiting period for illness, a 2-day waiting period for accidents, and up to 365 days for pre-existing conditions before they may be covered. Conditions showing signs or diagnosed during these waiting periods will be excluded.
Can I use any veterinarian, and is emergency or 24/7 care included?
You are free to use any licensed veterinarian or emergency clinic in the United States, its territories, Canada, and sometimes beyond. There is a 24/7 vet helpline available for policyholders. Emergency treatments are reimbursed under your plan terms.
Do I have to pay upfront for veterinary fees with AKC?
Yes, with AKC Pet Insurance you pay the veterinarian directly at the time of service. After you pay, you submit your claim and eligible expenses are reimbursed by check or direct deposit. Always keep your detailed invoices and receipts for the claim.
How do I cancel my pet insurance policy with AKC?
You can cancel your AKC policy at any time by contacting customer service via phone or email. If you cancel within the first 30 days and have not filed a claim, you may be eligible for a full refund of the premium paid. Always confirm the cancellation has been processed for your records.
What does AKC Pet Insurance cover and what exclusions should I be aware of?
AKC covers a broad range of illnesses, injuries, surgeries, prescription medications, and hereditary conditions, depending on your plan choices. However, routine preventive care, annual check-ups, most dental cleanings, and certain hereditary and pre-existing conditions are excluded unless additional coverage or riders are purchased.
How do reimbursements work with AKC and what documents do I need?
After paying your vet bill, you submit a claim online, by email, fax, or mail, along with detailed invoices and proof of payment. Reimbursements are made either by check or directly deposited to your bank account.
Are there any special waiting periods or rules about pre-existing condition coverage?
AKC applies a 14-day waiting period for illness, a 2-day waiting period for accidents, and up to 365 days for pre-existing conditions before they may be covered. Conditions showing signs or diagnosed during these waiting periods will be excluded.
Can I use any veterinarian, and is emergency or 24/7 care included?
You are free to use any licensed veterinarian or emergency clinic in the United States, its territories, Canada, and sometimes beyond. There is a 24/7 vet helpline available for policyholders. Emergency treatments are reimbursed under your plan terms.
