The Best Pet Insurance for Brittany Spaniels in 2025
Brittany Spaniel : Health & Insurance
The Brittany Spaniel is a famously intelligent and athletic medium-sized dog, prized for its boundless energy and stamina. This active lifestyle, while a hallmark of the breed, directly contributes to its specific medical needs and risk of injury.This breed is genetically predisposed to several costly health conditions, most notably hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and hypothyroidism. Their athleticism also makes them highly susceptible to accidental injuries like cruciate ligament tears and they can suffer from recurrent ear infections and skin conditions.Due to this combination of hereditary risks and a high likelihood of activity-related injuries, the Brittany Spaniel has a breed vulnerability score of 7 out of 10.While routine annual veterinary care may average $500-$800 in the US, treating a common breed-specific issue can be far more expensive: surgery for a cruciate ligament tear often costs $3,000-$6,000, and managing chronic conditions like hip dysplasia or epilepsy can accumulate to thousands over their lifetime.Many standard insurance plans are unsuitable for Brittanys. They frequently impose long waiting periods of 6 months or more for orthopedic conditions, have low payout caps that are insufficient for major surgery, or contain exclusions for hereditary issues.To ensure adequate protection, owners should consider insurers with robust coverage for these specific risks.➡️ Pumpkin is an excellent choice due to its standard 14-day waiting period for all conditions, including crucial orthopedic issues like hip dysplasia and cruciate ligament tears.➡️ Trupanion is highly suitable for its policy with no payout limits, which is essential for covering expensive, unexpected surgeries or the lifelong treatment of chronic conditions.➡️ Fetch offers a comprehensive plan that includes coverage for hereditary conditions, sick-visit exam fees, and even behavioral therapy for this high-energy breed.➡️ Spot provides valuable flexibility with customizable plans, allowing owners to select an unlimited payout option to prepare for high-cost veterinary care.Below, you will find a complete health sheet, a detailed comparison table of the best plans, and essential cost-saving tips for your Brittany Spaniel.
- ✅Excellent coverage for breed-specific hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia and epilepsy.
- ✅Top-tier plans offer high or unlimited annual limits, essential for costly surgeries like cruciate ligament repair.
- ✅Options are available with short waiting periods (14 days) for orthopedic conditions, a key risk for this active breed.
- ❌Premiums can be higher to reflect the breed's risk of expensive orthopedic injuries and hereditary issues.
- ❌Some recommended plans may impose extended waiting periods (up to 6 months) for knee conditions unless waived by a vet exam.
- ✅Excellent coverage for breed-specific hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia and epilepsy.
- ✅Top-tier plans offer high or unlimited annual limits, essential for costly surgeries like cruciate ligament repair.
- ✅Options are available with short waiting periods (14 days) for orthopedic conditions, a key risk for this active breed.
Brittany Spaniel : Health & Insurance
- ✅Excellent coverage for breed-specific hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia and epilepsy.
- ✅Top-tier plans offer high or unlimited annual limits, essential for costly surgeries like cruciate ligament repair.
- ✅Options are available with short waiting periods (14 days) for orthopedic conditions, a key risk for this active breed.
- ❌Premiums can be higher to reflect the breed's risk of expensive orthopedic injuries and hereditary issues.
- ❌Some recommended plans may impose extended waiting periods (up to 6 months) for knee conditions unless waived by a vet exam.
- ✅Excellent coverage for breed-specific hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia and epilepsy.
- ✅Top-tier plans offer high or unlimited annual limits, essential for costly surgeries like cruciate ligament repair.
- ✅Options are available with short waiting periods (14 days) for orthopedic conditions, a key risk for this active breed.
- Brittany Spaniel at a glance
- Veterinary Issues & Cost
- Best Insurance Plans
- Insurance Criteria
- Savings Tips
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
To create this guide, our HelloSafe pet insurance expert combined insights from veterinary professionals, real feedback from Brittany Spaniel owners, and an in-depth review of 34 active insurance policies. The result: a clear, expert-driven comparison of the best options tailored to the unique needs of this breed. Read on for practical advice and trusted recommendations to help you find the right coverage at every stage of your Brittany Spaniel's life.
The Brittany Spaniel: At a Glance
| 🐶 Brittany Spaniel Characteristics | Details |
|---|---|
| 🕰️ Average lifespan | 12–14 years |
| 🧠 Temperament | Energetic, intelligent, friendly, eager to please, sensitive |
| 🐕 Lifestyle needs | Needs daily vigorous exercise, mental challenges, interactive play, thrives on activity |
| 🫶🏻 Physical traits | Medium size, compact, well-muscled, floppy ears, expressive eyes, feathered tail |
| 📑 Animal type/category | Sporting group, hunting dog |
| 🐾 Trainability | High; quick learner, very responsive to positive training |
| 👶🏻 Child-friendly? | Yes |
| 🧗♀️ Stairs compatibility | Yes |
| 📏 Size (puppy/adult) | Puppy: 8–18 lbs, 8–14" / Adult: 17.5–20.5" tall at shoulder |
| ⚖️ Weight (puppy/adult) | Puppy: 8–18 lbs / Adult: 30–40 lbs |
| 🧥 Coat & grooming | Dense, medium-length, wavy or flat, moderate shedding; regular brushing needed |
| 💰 Purchase price | $800–$1,800 (from reputable breeders) |
| ❤️ Popularity (US) | Very popular hunting & family dog; AKC ranking ~30–35th most popular breed |
| 🩺 Food & health budget | ~$600–$1,200/year for food, vet care, and health expenses |
| 🏥 Health risks | Robust but with genetic risk for hip dysplasia, ear infections, epilepsy, skin & eye issues |
Is Pet Insurance Relevant for a Brittany Spaniel?
Breed Risk Index for Brittany Spaniel: 6/10
Brittany Spaniels are generally robust but have a moderate risk profile due to a combination of hereditary and activity-related health issues. Key risk factors include a relatively high incidence of hip dysplasia (OFA data: ~15% affected), cruciate ligament injuries linked to their athleticism, and chronic ear infections from their floppy ears. Additional concerns are genetic epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and eye diseases (cataracts, glaucoma). While these conditions usually require medical management or orthopedic surgery, most are not as systematically severe or costly as found in more vulnerable breeds. That said, recurrent surgery (CCL tears: often $2,000–$4,000/knee), diagnostics, or lifelong medication can drive high veterinary expenses. Insurers may exclude hereditary or chronic issues if pre-existing, reinforcing the need for early comprehensive coverage, but overall the Brittany Spaniel does not face the highest exclusion rates or catastrophic risks. This justifies a veterinary-backed risk score of 6/10.
🩺 Health Conditions & Veterinary Costs for Brittany Spaniel
| Type of Condition | Example Condition | 📊 Occurrence frequency | Treatment / Care | Average Cost & Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Common illnesses | Otitis externa (ear infection) | Frequent: up to 3–4 times/year | Ear cleaning, topical antibiotics | $200–$500/year – ✔️ Recurring illness coverage important |
| Gastrointestinal upsets | Occasional: 1–2 times/year | Diet, probiotics, supportive care | $100–$300/episode – ✔️ Covered by basic plan | |
| Hereditary diseases | Hip dysplasia | Moderate: ~15% (OFA, hereditary) | Diagnostics, anti-inflammatories, TPO surgery | $2,000–$5,000+ – ✔️ Needs premium ortho coverage |
| Epilepsy | Occasional: presents before age 5 | Lifelong anti-seizure medication, exams | $400–$900/year – ✔️ Chronic care coverage essential | |
| Chronic conditions | Hypothyroidism | Moderate: middle-aged and senior | Bloodwork, daily thyroid meds | $300–$600/year – ✔️ Endocrine disorder/add-on |
| Atopic dermatitis (allergies) | Somewhat common: varies by region | Cytopoint, special diets, topical care | $400–$1,000/year – ✔️ Dermatology coverage | |
| Age/species-related risks | Cataracts | Occasional: older adults | Surgery (phacoemulsification if needed) | $2,500–$4,000/eye – ✔️ High-limit, specialist plan required |
| Dental disease | Frequent: annual tartar build-up | Dental cleaning, extractions | $200–$700/year – ✔️ Preventive dental coverage | |
| Behavioral risks | Separation anxiety | Occasional: high-energy, working dogs | Behavior therapy, medication | $300–$900 – ⚠️ Not always included in pet insurance |
| Emergency or accident risks | Cranial cruciate ligament tear | Moderate: active/field Brittanys | TPLO surgery, rehabilitation | $2,500–$4,500/event – ✔️ Surgical coverage necessary |
| Preventive care needed | Vaccinations, annual check-ups | Yearly | Exams, boosters, core vaccines | $200–$400/year – ✔️ Add wellness/prevention to plan |
The Best Insurance Plans for a Brittany Spaniel in the US
After thoroughly reviewing and comparing all available GTC (General Terms & Conditions) and IPID (Insurance Product Information Documents), my goal was to identify which insurance providers in France deliver the best support for a Brittany Spaniel. This analysis looked closely at the breadth of guarantees (including covered treatments, reimbursement levels, and annual benefit maximums), key exclusions—especially concerning hereditary or breed-specific health issues—and the flexibility of each policy, such as waiting periods, age limits, and deductible options. The table below ranks the leading options, summarizing which plans offer the most comprehensive and reliable protection for your Brittany Spaniel.
| Insurer | 💬 Verdict | 🛡️ Key Coverage Strengths | ❌ Exclusions / Weak Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trupanion | ✅ High breed adaptation | • Hereditary & congenital condition coverage • No annual/lifetime caps • Direct vet payment for many practices | • No reimbursement of exam fees • 30-day illness wait • Per-condition deductible for unrelated issues |
| Fetch | ✅ High breed adaptation | • Robust for hereditary, chronic, and breed-specific risks • Sick visit exam fees included • Behavioral & alternative therapies | • Requires annual health and dental exams • Annual coverage caps (customizable) |
| Spot | ✅ High breed adaptation | • Fully customizable (limits, deductibles, reimbursement) • Hereditary & congenital covered • Wellness add-on available | • Add-ons needed for wellness coverage • 14-day wait for illness/injury |
| Prudent Pet | ✅ High breed adaptation | • Unlimited annual plan available • Strong orthopedic and hereditary protection • 24/7 live vet chat | • 6-month wait for knee/ligament issues (waivable) • Exam fees require an add-on |
| Pumpkin | ✅ High breed adaptation | • All-encompassing hereditary and orthopedic coverage • Exam fees always included • Reasonable, standard waits | • Only 90% reimbursement rate option • Higher base premium |
| Embrace | ✅ High breed adaptation | • Covers all major breed risks • Diminishing deductible • Includes chronic & behavioral therapy coverage | • 6-month orthopedic waiting period (waivable) • Dental illness subject to $1,000/year sub-limit |
| Pets Best | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation | • Budget-friendly, very flexible plans • 3-day accident wait • Hereditary/congenital coverage standard | • Add-ons required for exam/rehab • 6-month ligament/cruciate wait |
| Figo | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation | • Immediate accident coverage (1 day) • Covers hereditary and chronic conditions • Diminishing deductible available | • Exam/rehab coverage are paid add-ons • 6-month orthopedic wait (can be waived) |
| ASPCA | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation | • Short 14-day wait for ligament issues • Covers behavioral & alternative treatments | • Website unavailable for detail checks • Mixed claim reviews |
| Lemonade | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation | • Fast digital claims • Hereditary/chronic covered • Multi-policy and multi-pet discounts | • No base coverage for behavior/therapy • 6-month ligament wait |
| Healthy Paws | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation | • No annual or lifetime caps • Reliable for hereditary/chronic risks | • 12-month wait for hip dysplasia • No exam or preventive care reimbursement |
| AKC/PetPartners | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation | • Customizable via add-ons • Unique pre-existing policy opportunity | • Must purchase 'HereditaryPlus' for breed risks • 180-day ligament/IVDD wait |
| Nationwide | ❌ Low breed adaptation | • Includes wellness/preventive on some plans • Long-term reputation | • Some plans use benefit schedule only • 1-year ligament wait; may severely limit coverage reimbursements |
| Many Pets | ❌ Low breed adaptation | • Previously offered unlimited coverage | • No new policies in US; transitioning out • Claims and continuity risk |
| MetLife | ❌ Low breed adaptation | • "Healthy Pet Incentive" removes deductible • Base plan includes some holistic coverage | • Poor customer service/claims track record • Lowest industry satisfaction rating |
• No annual/lifetime caps
• Direct vet payment for many practices
• 30-day illness wait
• Per-condition deductible for unrelated issues
• Sick visit exam fees included
• Behavioral & alternative therapies
• Annual coverage caps (customizable)
• Hereditary & congenital covered
• Wellness add-on available
• 14-day wait for illness/injury
• Strong orthopedic and hereditary protection
• 24/7 live vet chat
• Exam fees require an add-on
• Exam fees always included
• Reasonable, standard waits
• Higher base premium
• Diminishing deductible
• Includes chronic & behavioral therapy coverage
• Dental illness subject to $1,000/year sub-limit
• 3-day accident wait
• Hereditary/congenital coverage standard
• 6-month ligament/cruciate wait
• Covers hereditary and chronic conditions
• Diminishing deductible available
• 6-month orthopedic wait (can be waived)
• Covers behavioral & alternative treatments
• Mixed claim reviews
• Hereditary/chronic covered
• Multi-policy and multi-pet discounts
• 6-month ligament wait
• Reliable for hereditary/chronic risks
• No exam or preventive care reimbursement
• Unique pre-existing policy opportunity
• 180-day ligament/IVDD wait
• Long-term reputation
• 1-year ligament wait; may severely limit coverage reimbursements
• Claims and continuity risk
• Base plan includes some holistic coverage
• Lowest industry satisfaction rating
You can explore and compare these insurance options directly on our comparison tool to find the plan that fits your Brittany Spaniel's needs and your budget.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance online.I compareHow to Choose the Best Insurance for Your Brittany Spaniel
When choosing insurance for a Brittany Spaniel, it’s important to select a plan with a high annual limit—at least $1,500 to $2,000—due to the breed’s established risks for hip dysplasia and costly cruciate ligament injuries, which can each require surgery exceeding $1,500. Look for a reimbursement rate of 80–100% to ensure most expenses are covered, especially for chronic issues like ear infections (common with their floppy ears) or lifelong thyroid medication. Opt for a low annual deductible (under $100), which provides better value if your Brittany Spaniel develops several unrelated problems in a single year.
Carefully review each policy’s exclusions and sub-limits—many policies specifically exclude hereditary, chronic, or breed-specific conditions, all of which are relevant for Brittany Spaniels. Finally, it’s essential to enroll your dog before any symptoms are present; early subscription prevents insurers from classifying existing issues as “pre-existing conditions” and denying coverage for high-risk problems later on.
🧾 Recommended Coverage Levels
| Condition Type | Recommended Annual Limit |
|---|---|
| Orthopedic (hip, CCL tears) | ≥ $2,000 |
| Dermatology (chronic ear/skin) | ≥ $1,000 |
| Neurologic, endocrine & eye | ≥ $1,500 |
How to Save on Pet Insurance for Your Brittany Spaniel
| Savings Tip | How It Works | Impact on Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Request ortho wait-period waiver | For Brittany Spaniels, use a vet’s clean orthopedic exam to waive long waiting periods, unlocking preferred pricing for hip/knee issues. | High |
| Customize for breed conditions | Exclude add-ons not relevant to Brittany (e.g., dental, exotic diseases), keeping strong coverage for hips, joints, and allergies at a lower base cost. | Medium |
| Opt for direct-pay insurers | Choose insurers (like Trupanion) offering direct pay to vets, which can lead to lower premiums due to reduced administrative costs and fraud risk. | Medium |
| Schedule annual preventative checkups | Some insurers apply discounts or lower deductibles for Brittany Spaniels with evidence of routine annual wellness exams and healthy checkups. | Low |
| Set reimbursement at 80% | Selecting 80% vs. 90% reimbursement provides a meaningful premium cut yet still covers high Brittany-related orthopedic or emergency expenses. | Medium |
FAQ
What health conditions should I be most concerned about insuring for my Brittany Spaniel?
Brittany Spaniels are at higher risk for hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament injuries, epilepsy, and hereditary eye problems. Ear infections and skin allergies are also common due to their floppy ears and dense coats. A good insurance plan will specifically mention coverage for these congenital, orthopedic, and chronic conditions.
Does pet insurance for a Brittany Spaniel cover orthopedic surgeries, such as for torn ligaments?
Most comprehensive pet insurance plans do cover orthopedic surgeries—including those for cruciate ligament tears—provided the condition is not pre-existing. Watch for waiting periods (often 6 months) and potential waivers with a vet exam soon after enrolling your Brittany Spaniel.
Will my pet insurance cover chronic conditions such as epilepsy and hypothyroidism in Brittany Spaniels?
Yes—if you enroll your Brittany Spaniel before the first symptoms appear, many policies provide lifelong coverage for chronic issues like epilepsy or hypothyroidism. Be sure to review annual or lifetime cap limits and whether ongoing medications and regular checkups are included.
Are hereditary and genetic conditions covered for Brittany Spaniels in most pet insurance plans?
Leading pet insurers now include hereditary and genetic condition coverage as a standard or optional benefit. It’s important that you enroll your Brittany Spaniel early to avoid exclusions for pre-existing issues or breed-specific risks, which are otherwise common.
How are ear infections and skin allergies handled by Brittany Spaniel pet insurance?
Coverage for treatment of ear infections and allergies varies: accident and illness plans typically include them, but some exclude recurring skin or ear problems as “pre-existing” if seen before enrollment. Document symptoms early and verify policy terms with your chosen insurer.
Are exam fees included in Brittany Spaniel pet insurance policies?
Exam fee coverage is sometimes built into premium plans, but often requires an add-on, especially with lower-tier policies. If your Brittany is prone to chronic illnesses or injuries, including routine exam fees can provide significant savings over time.
What payout limit is recommended for insuring a Brittany Spaniel?
Experts suggest choosing an annual payout limit of at least $10,000, or selecting unlimited coverage, to ensure protection against expensive orthopedic surgeries and treatment for chronic conditions during your Brittany Spaniel’s lifetime.
Will enrolling my Brittany Spaniel as a puppy reduce insurance costs?
Yes! Insuring your Brittany Spaniel at a young age not only locks in lower, risk-based premiums but also guarantees coverage for hereditary and chronic conditions that often appear later, avoiding pre-existing exclusions.
What health conditions should I be most concerned about insuring for my Brittany Spaniel?
Brittany Spaniels are at higher risk for hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament injuries, epilepsy, and hereditary eye problems. Ear infections and skin allergies are also common due to their floppy ears and dense coats. A good insurance plan will specifically mention coverage for these congenital, orthopedic, and chronic conditions.
Does pet insurance for a Brittany Spaniel cover orthopedic surgeries, such as for torn ligaments?
Most comprehensive pet insurance plans do cover orthopedic surgeries—including those for cruciate ligament tears—provided the condition is not pre-existing. Watch for waiting periods (often 6 months) and potential waivers with a vet exam soon after enrolling your Brittany Spaniel.
Will my pet insurance cover chronic conditions such as epilepsy and hypothyroidism in Brittany Spaniels?
Yes—if you enroll your Brittany Spaniel before the first symptoms appear, many policies provide lifelong coverage for chronic issues like epilepsy or hypothyroidism. Be sure to review annual or lifetime cap limits and whether ongoing medications and regular checkups are included.
Are hereditary and genetic conditions covered for Brittany Spaniels in most pet insurance plans?
Leading pet insurers now include hereditary and genetic condition coverage as a standard or optional benefit. It’s important that you enroll your Brittany Spaniel early to avoid exclusions for pre-existing issues or breed-specific risks, which are otherwise common.
How are ear infections and skin allergies handled by Brittany Spaniel pet insurance?
Coverage for treatment of ear infections and allergies varies: accident and illness plans typically include them, but some exclude recurring skin or ear problems as “pre-existing” if seen before enrollment. Document symptoms early and verify policy terms with your chosen insurer.
Are exam fees included in Brittany Spaniel pet insurance policies?
Exam fee coverage is sometimes built into premium plans, but often requires an add-on, especially with lower-tier policies. If your Brittany is prone to chronic illnesses or injuries, including routine exam fees can provide significant savings over time.
What payout limit is recommended for insuring a Brittany Spaniel?
Experts suggest choosing an annual payout limit of at least $10,000, or selecting unlimited coverage, to ensure protection against expensive orthopedic surgeries and treatment for chronic conditions during your Brittany Spaniel’s lifetime.
Will enrolling my Brittany Spaniel as a puppy reduce insurance costs?
Yes! Insuring your Brittany Spaniel at a young age not only locks in lower, risk-based premiums but also guarantees coverage for hereditary and chronic conditions that often appear later, avoiding pre-existing exclusions.
