The Best Pet Insurance for Your English Cocker Spaniel
- Is Pet Insurance Worth It for an English Cocker Spaniel?
- The Best Insurance Plans for English Cocker Spaniel in the US
- How to Choose the Best Insurance for Your English Cocker Spaniel?
- How to Save on Pet Insurance for Your English Cocker Spaniel
- The English Cocker Spaniel: At a Glance
- FAQ
With their expressive eyes and joyful personalities, the English Cocker Spaniel makes a charming companion—but this breed comes with distinct health considerations. Hip dysplasia and patellar luxation can threaten mobility, while hereditary eye issues such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts may require specialized care. Their signature long ears contribute to frequent ear infections, often leading to repeated vet visits and medication. Skin allergies and chronic conditions like seborrhea are common, while heart problems and certain cancers add to the medical risks. These inherited or recurring issues mean that vet bills can quickly escalate, especially when advanced diagnostics or surgery are required. That’s why comprehensive pet insurance is a practical choice, helping absorb the shock of both routine and unexpected expenses. This guide reviews top insurance options and essential tips—so keeping an English Cocker Spaniel happy and healthy is always within reach.
Why trust HelloSafe?
To create this guide, our HelloSafe pet insurance expert combined insights from veterinary professionals, real feedback from English Cocker 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—and lasting peace of mind—at every stage of your English Cocker Spaniel's life.
Is Pet Insurance Worth It for an English Cocker Spaniel?
Breed Risk Index for English Cocker Spaniel: 7/10
The English Cocker Spaniel carries a moderately high veterinary risk, driven primarily by a predisposition to several hereditary and chronic conditions. Orthopedic problems such as hip dysplasia and patellar luxation can require surgical intervention. Hereditary eye diseases—especially Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and cataracts—demand regular specialist monitoring and may lead to surgery. Chronic, recurrent ear infections are prevalent due to the breed’s long, pendulous ears and often necessitate frequent examinations, medications, and specialist diagnostics. Dermatological conditions, particularly skin allergies and seborrhea, are common and may require lifelong care. Reports from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and breed studies confirm a noticeably increased risk for both cancer and heart disease (like DCM) compared to average breeds. While many insurance policies target hereditary and chronic exclusions, catastrophic costs are less common than in breeds with scores of 8+. Comprehensive insurance is recommended for peace of mind and predictable expenses, especially for dogs from high-risk lines.
🩺 Health conditions & veterinary costs for English Cocker Spaniel
| Type of Condition | Example Condition | 📊 Occurrence frequency | Treatment / Care | Average Cost & Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Common illnesses | Otitis externa (chronic ear infection) | Very frequent: 2–4 times/year | Ear cleaning, cultures, meds | $250–$600/year – ✔️ Need recurrent care/inc. exam fees |
| Gastrointestinal upset | Common: 2–3 times/year | Diet, vet exams, medications | $200–$500/episode – ✔️ Covered by basic plan | |
| Hereditary diseases | Hip dysplasia | Breed risk: ~8–15% | Ortho consult, x-ray, possible surgery | $1,500–$5,000 – ✔️ Requires hereditary & ortho coverage |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) | Moderate | Genetic tests, regular eye exams | $350–$900/year – ✔️ Eye/genetic coverage recommended | |
| Cataract | Moderate–common in older Spaniels | Medication, surgical removal (if advanced) | $2,000–$3,000/surgery – ✔️ Hereditary/eye coverage | |
| Chronic conditions | Allergic dermatitis or seborrhea | Frequent: chronic in the breed | Cytopoint, Apoquel, diet, special shampoos | $600–$1,200/year – ✔️ Chronic & dermatology care needed |
| Age/species-related risks | Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) | Increased prevalence in mid-age | Cardiology consult, meds, echo | $800–$2,000/year – ✔️ High chronic/heart coverage needed |
| Behavioral risks | Separation anxiety | Common: indoor/social dogs | Behavioral therapy, training | $300–$900/year – ⚠️ Not always covered |
| Emergency or accident risks | Foreign body (ear/airway/gut) | Occasional | Emergency imaging, surgery | $1,500–$3,000 – ✔️ Needs robust accident coverage |
| Preventive care needed | Dental scaling | Very frequent: 1–2x/year | Scaling, exam, potential extractions | $350–$800/year – ✔️ Preventive dental coverage advised |
The Best Insurance Plans for English Cocker Spaniel in the US
I thoroughly reviewed and compared all available General Terms & Conditions (GTC) and Insurance Product Information Documents (IPID) in order to determine which insurance providers in the United States offer the most suitable coverage for an English Cocker Spaniel. My analysis cross-checked the quality of guarantees (covered treatments, reimbursement levels, annual payout limits), potential exclusions (particularly for breed-specific or hereditary conditions), and policy flexibility (such as waiting periods, age caps, and deductible models). Here are the results of this detailed review.
| Insurer | 💬 Verdict | 🛡️ Key Coverage Strengths | ❌ Exclusions / Weak Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fetch | ✅ High breed adaptation. An excellent all-around choice for an English Cocker Spaniel, providing comprehensive coverage for the breed’s most common hereditary and chronic risks, including exam fees. | • Covers vet exam fees for sick visits • Full coverage for hereditary & congenital conditions (hips, eyes, heart) • Includes dental illness, behavioral, and alternative therapies | • 6-month waiting period for hip & knee injuries (can be waived with a vet exam) • Requires annual health and dental checks to maintain coverage |
| Spot | ✅ High breed adaptation. A highly suitable and flexible option that covers the key health concerns for English Cocker Spaniels, including hereditary conditions and the associated exam fees. | • Covers vet exam fees • Strong coverage for hereditary conditions • Curable pre-existing conditions may become eligible after 180 days • Wellness add-on available | • 14-day waiting period applies to accidents and illnesses, including knee conditions |
| Trupanion | ✅ High breed adaptation. Ideal for owners prioritizing coverage for major, high-cost events like cancer or orthopedic surgery, thanks to no payout limits and direct vet pay. | • No annual or lifetime payout limits • Covers hereditary & congenital conditions • Per-condition deductible can be beneficial for chronic issues • VetDirect Pay™ simplifies payment for large bills | • Does not cover vet exam fees • 30-day waiting period for illnesses is longer than average |
| Pumpkin | ✅ High breed adaptation. A top contender due to its simple, comprehensive plan and exceptionally short waiting period for orthopedic conditions, a key risk for the breed. | • Short 14-day waiting period for all conditions, including hip dysplasia • Vet exam fees are included in the base plan • Covers hereditary, chronic, and behavioral conditions | • Less customizable than other providers (one primary plan) |
| Embrace | ✅ High breed adaptation. A well-balanced policy offering strong coverage for the breed’s typical health issues, including exam fees, with a clear path to waive the orthopedic waiting period. | • Covers exam fees & behavioral therapy • Covers hereditary & chronic conditions • 6-month orthopedic waiting period can be waived via vet exam | • Dental illness coverage capped at $1,000 per year |
| Figo | ✅ High breed adaptation. A flexible, tech-forward option that allows owners to build a plan well-suited to the breed's needs, particularly if key riders are included. | • Covers hereditary conditions • 6-month orthopedic waiting period can be waived with a vet exam • Diminishing deductible rewards claim-free years | • Exam fees, rehab, and alternative care require optional add-ons |
| Prudent Pet | ✅ High breed adaptation. Strong coverage for hereditary issues with a notable waiver for the orthopedic waiting period, making it a great choice for this breed. | • 6-month waiting period for knee issues can be waived with a vet exam within 30 days • Covers hereditary conditions • Unlimited 24/7 vet chat included | • Exam fees are an optional add-on, not standard • $1,000 annual limit on behavioral therapy |
| Healthy Paws | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation. A strong plan for major claims due to no payout caps, but less ideal for managing chronic conditions due to lack of exam fee coverage and long hip dysplasia wait. | • No annual or lifetime payout limits • Covers hereditary & congenital conditions • Fast claim processing | • 12-month waiting period for hip dysplasia • Does not cover vet exam fees |
| AKC / PetPartners | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation. Can be a good policy, but only if crucial riders like HereditaryPlus and ExamPlus are added, which significantly increases complexity and cost. | • Coverage for pre-existing conditions after a 365-day waiting period • Highly customizable with add-on riders | • Excludes hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia unless the HereditaryPlus rider is purchased • Base plan is insufficient for the breed's needs |
| Hartville / ASPCA | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation. Provides decent core coverage for the breed's risks, but the 14-day accident waiting period and inconsistent reviews present drawbacks. | • Covers hereditary, behavioral, and alternative therapies • Curable pre-existing conditions may be covered after 180 days symptom-free | • 14-day waiting period for accidents is slower than competitors • Customer reviews are mixed regarding claim handling |
| Kanguro | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation. Covers the basics but is weakened by a slow accident waiting period and key therapy exclusions relevant to orthopedic health. | • Covers hereditary & genetic conditions • Includes vet exam fees in base plan | • 14-day waiting period for accidents • Alternative therapies like rehab and hydrotherapy are excluded |
| Lemonade | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation. A modern, simple option, but key exclusions in the base plan make it less comprehensive for a breed prone to chronic and behavioral issues. | • Fast, digital-first claims process • Optional preventative care packages | • Does not cover vet exam fees • Excludes behavioral, physical, and alternative therapies in the base policy • 6-month waiting period for cruciate ligament issues |
| MetLife | ❌ Low breed adaptation. While the policy features appear strong on paper, extremely poor customer satisfaction ratings suggest a high risk of encountering service issues. | • Covers vet exam fees and some preventive care in the base plan • Healthy Pet Incentive reduces deductible annually | • Ranked last in its category on Trustpilot (2.6/5 score) • Numerous complaints about claims processing and customer service |
| Safeco | ❌ Low breed adaptation. Unsuitable due to specific exclusions in its illness endorsement that target common orthopedic issues in English Cocker Spaniels. | • Highly modular with many optional endorsements | • Illness endorsement excludes common conditions like luxating patella and arthritis • Base policy is accident-only; comprehensive coverage is complex to build |
| VPI / Nationwide | ❌ Low breed adaptation. The potential for a restrictive benefit schedule and a very long orthopedic waiting period make this a high-risk choice. | • Offers wellness add-ons | • Some plans use a fixed benefit schedule, which may not cover the actual vet bill • 1-year waiting period for orthopedic conditions |
| Physicians Mutual | ❌ Low breed adaptation. A combination of rider-dependent coverage, a long orthopedic waiting period, and very poor customer reviews makes this an inadvisable option. | • Diminishing deductible feature | • Exam fees and other key coverages require add-on riders • Extremely low customer satisfaction rating (2.2/5 on Trustpilot) |
| Many Pets | ❌ Low breed adaptation. Unsuitable for 2025 due to the company transitioning its US policies to another carrier, creating significant uncertainty for coverage continuity and service quality. | • Good policy features like no annual limits and exam fee coverage | • Transfer of policies to a new provider in 2025 introduces risk and uncertainty for policyholders |
• Full coverage for hereditary & congenital conditions (hips, eyes, heart)
• Includes dental illness, behavioral, and alternative therapies
• Requires annual health and dental checks to maintain coverage
• Strong coverage for hereditary conditions
• Curable pre-existing conditions may become eligible after 180 days
• Wellness add-on available
• Covers hereditary & congenital conditions
• Per-condition deductible can be beneficial for chronic issues
• VetDirect Pay™ simplifies payment for large bills
• 30-day waiting period for illnesses is longer than average
• Vet exam fees are included in the base plan
• Covers hereditary, chronic, and behavioral conditions
• Covers hereditary & chronic conditions
• 6-month orthopedic waiting period can be waived via vet exam
• 6-month orthopedic waiting period can be waived with a vet exam
• Diminishing deductible rewards claim-free years
• Covers hereditary conditions
• Unlimited 24/7 vet chat included
• $1,000 annual limit on behavioral therapy
• Covers hereditary & congenital conditions
• Fast claim processing
• Does not cover vet exam fees
• Highly customizable with add-on riders
• Base plan is insufficient for the breed's needs
• Curable pre-existing conditions may be covered after 180 days symptom-free
• Customer reviews are mixed regarding claim handling
• Includes vet exam fees in base plan
• Alternative therapies like rehab and hydrotherapy are excluded
• Optional preventative care packages
• Excludes behavioral, physical, and alternative therapies in the base policy
• 6-month waiting period for cruciate ligament issues
• Healthy Pet Incentive reduces deductible annually
• Numerous complaints about claims processing and customer service
• Base policy is accident-only; comprehensive coverage is complex to build
• 1-year waiting period for orthopedic conditions
• Extremely low customer satisfaction rating (2.2/5 on Trustpilot)
You can explore and compare these insurance options directly on our comparison tool to find the plan that fits your English Cocker Spaniel's needs and your budget.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance online.I compareHow to Choose the Best Insurance for Your English Cocker Spaniel?
When choosing insurance for your English Cocker Spaniel, look for a high annual limit—at least $1,500 to $2,000—to cover expenses related to hereditary conditions like hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and genetic eye diseases such as PRA or cataracts, which commonly require costly treatments or surgery in this breed.
Prioritize a reimbursement rate of 80–100%, ensuring significant cost relief for ongoing care of chronic ear infections, skin allergies, or heart conditions like Dilated Cardiomyopathy. Select a policy with a low deductible (under $100 per year), which helps spread costs predictably across the year instead of each claim. Examine exclusions closely; avoid plans that limit or exclude coverage for chronic, genetic, or breed-specific conditions, as these are central for English Cocker Spaniels’ lifelong health.
Lastly, enroll early—before your dog exhibits any symptoms—since any pre-existing conditions will be excluded from coverage and ongoing recurrences may be costly without protection.
🧾 Recommended Coverage Levels
| Condition Type | Recommended Annual Limit |
|---|---|
| Orthopedic (hips, knees) | ≥ $2,000 |
| Eye & heart (PRA, cataracts, DCM) | ≥ $1,500 |
| Chronic ear & skin conditions | ≥ $1,000 |
How to Save on Pet Insurance for Your English Cocker Spaniel
| Savings Tip | How It Works | Impact on Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Compare offers | Using HelloSafe's comparison tool helps identify the best-value plans | High |
| Choose higher deductible | A higher deductible lowers monthly premiums but increases out-of pocket costs per claim | Medium |
| Insure early | Enroll before any health issues arise to access lower risk-based rates | High |
| Bundle policies | Adding home or auto insurance with the same provider unlocks discounts | Medium |
| Avoid useless add-ons | Removing optional coverages reduces monthly cost without affecting core protection | Low |
pocket costs per claim
core protection
The English Cocker Spaniel: At a Glance
| 🐶 English Cocker Spaniel Characteristics | Details |
|---|---|
| 🕰️ Average lifespan | 12–15 years |
| 🧠 Temperament | Cheerful, affectionate, intelligent, responsive, sociable, and eager to please |
| 🐕 Lifestyle needs | Needs daily exercise, mental stimulation, play, companionship, and moderate activity |
| 🫶🏻 Physical traits | Medium size, long ears, soulful eyes, silky wavy coat, compact and athletic build |
| 📑 Animal type/category | Sporting dog (originally bred to flush and retrieve game) |
| 🐾 Trainability | Highly trainable, learns quickly, enjoys obedience and field work |
| 👶🏻 Child-friendly? | Yes (typically gentle and loving with children, with early socialization) |
| 🧗♀️ Stairs compatibility | Yes |
| 📏 Size (puppy/adult) | Puppy: 7–11 in; Adult: 15–17 in at shoulder |
| ⚖️ Weight (puppy/adult) | Puppy: 5–15 lbs; Adult: 26–34 lbs |
| 🧥 Coat & grooming | Long, silky, feathered coat; needs frequent brushing, regular ear cleaning, and professional grooming |
| 💰 Purchase price | $1,000–$2,000 (reputable US breeders) |
| ❤️ Popularity (US) | Well-loved companion; moderate popularity, known for family-friendly and happy temperament |
| 🩺 Food & health budget | $700–$1,200 annually (quality food, regular grooming, routine vet and preventive care) |
| 🏥 Health risks | Robust (but prone to hereditary orthopedic, eye, ear, and skin conditions; regular monitoring essential) |
*Legend: Key facts about English Cocker Spaniel in US.*
FAQ
What are the most common health issues for English Cocker Spaniels that pet insurance can cover?
English Cocker Spaniels are prone to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, hereditary eye diseases like PRA and cataracts, chronic ear infections, and skin allergies. Comprehensive pet insurance plans generally cover hereditary and chronic conditions, orthopedic problems, and specialist care. Always review a policy’s details for coverage of these breed-specific risks.
Does insurance help with chronic ear infections in English Cocker Spaniels?
Yes, many plans cover treatment for ear infections, including vet exams, medication, and sometimes diagnostic imaging. It’s important to enroll before infections become frequent, as pre-existing conditions are not covered. Look for a policy that covers exam fees and has no exclusions for chronic or recurring conditions.
Will pet insurance cover surgery for hip dysplasia or patellar luxation in my English Cocker Spaniel?
Most reputable insurance providers do cover orthopedic surgeries for hereditary issues like hip dysplasia and patellar luxation, but you should check the policy’s specific waiting periods and exclusions. Some insurers require a recent vet exam to waive longer waiting periods. Prompt enrollment and thorough vet checkups help maximize your coverage.
Are routine screenings for hereditary eye conditions included in insurance for English Cocker Spaniels?
Screenings for eye diseases such as PRA or cataracts may be covered if your insurance plan includes exam fees and hereditary condition coverage. Some providers require routine health and eye exams to remain eligible for advanced treatments. It’s smart to confirm with your chosen insurer exactly what screenings and specialist visits are reimbursed.
Does insurance for English Cocker Spaniels pay for allergy or skin disorder treatments?
Most comprehensive pet insurance plans will reimburse costs for diagnosing and treating allergies or chronic skin conditions unless they were pre-existing. Covered services may include medications, special diets, and ongoing vet visits. Check whether your policy pays for both initial diagnosis and long-term management.
Am I covered if my English Cocker Spaniel develops cancer or a heart condition?
Yes, leading pet insurance policies typically include diagnostics, surgery, treatments, and medications for new cases of cancer or heart disease, such as dilated cardiomyopathy, provided these were not pre-existing. Review your plan for any annual or lifetime benefit limits, and make sure treatment for chronic illnesses is included.
Are exam fees for sick visits included in English Cocker Spaniel insurance plans?
Some insurance providers include vet exam fees for illnesses and injuries in their base plan, while others may offer this only through a rider or add-on. Since English Cocker Spaniels often require multiple vet visits for chronic or hereditary issues, it’s highly beneficial to select a plan that includes these fees for better coverage.
How can I ensure my insurance covers all the risks specific to English Cocker Spaniels?
When choosing a plan, look for coverage of hereditary and chronic diseases, short orthopedic waiting periods, and inclusion of exam fees. Early enrollment is important for avoiding exclusions for pre-existing conditions, and a plan with wellness or preventive care add-ons can help manage your English Cocker Spaniel’s long-term health.
What are the most common health issues for English Cocker Spaniels that pet insurance can cover?
English Cocker Spaniels are prone to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, hereditary eye diseases like PRA and cataracts, chronic ear infections, and skin allergies. Comprehensive pet insurance plans generally cover hereditary and chronic conditions, orthopedic problems, and specialist care. Always review a policy’s details for coverage of these breed-specific risks.
Does insurance help with chronic ear infections in English Cocker Spaniels?
Yes, many plans cover treatment for ear infections, including vet exams, medication, and sometimes diagnostic imaging. It’s important to enroll before infections become frequent, as pre-existing conditions are not covered. Look for a policy that covers exam fees and has no exclusions for chronic or recurring conditions.
Will pet insurance cover surgery for hip dysplasia or patellar luxation in my English Cocker Spaniel?
Most reputable insurance providers do cover orthopedic surgeries for hereditary issues like hip dysplasia and patellar luxation, but you should check the policy’s specific waiting periods and exclusions. Some insurers require a recent vet exam to waive longer waiting periods. Prompt enrollment and thorough vet checkups help maximize your coverage.
Are routine screenings for hereditary eye conditions included in insurance for English Cocker Spaniels?
Screenings for eye diseases such as PRA or cataracts may be covered if your insurance plan includes exam fees and hereditary condition coverage. Some providers require routine health and eye exams to remain eligible for advanced treatments. It’s smart to confirm with your chosen insurer exactly what screenings and specialist visits are reimbursed.
Does insurance for English Cocker Spaniels pay for allergy or skin disorder treatments?
Most comprehensive pet insurance plans will reimburse costs for diagnosing and treating allergies or chronic skin conditions unless they were pre-existing. Covered services may include medications, special diets, and ongoing vet visits. Check whether your policy pays for both initial diagnosis and long-term management.
Am I covered if my English Cocker Spaniel develops cancer or a heart condition?
Yes, leading pet insurance policies typically include diagnostics, surgery, treatments, and medications for new cases of cancer or heart disease, such as dilated cardiomyopathy, provided these were not pre-existing. Review your plan for any annual or lifetime benefit limits, and make sure treatment for chronic illnesses is included.
Are exam fees for sick visits included in English Cocker Spaniel insurance plans?
Some insurance providers include vet exam fees for illnesses and injuries in their base plan, while others may offer this only through a rider or add-on. Since English Cocker Spaniels often require multiple vet visits for chronic or hereditary issues, it’s highly beneficial to select a plan that includes these fees for better coverage.
How can I ensure my insurance covers all the risks specific to English Cocker Spaniels?
When choosing a plan, look for coverage of hereditary and chronic diseases, short orthopedic waiting periods, and inclusion of exam fees. Early enrollment is important for avoiding exclusions for pre-existing conditions, and a plan with wellness or preventive care add-ons can help manage your English Cocker Spaniel’s long-term health.
