The Best Pet Insurance Plans for Whippets in 2025
Whippet : Health & Insurance
The Whippet is a graceful and athletic sighthound, known for its incredible speed and gentle temperament. However, this same athleticism, combined with their delicate build and thin skin, makes them more susceptible to injuries and specific medical issues.This breed faces a significant risk of costly health problems, including musculoskeletal injuries like cruciate ligament tears and fractures, skin lacerations, and hereditary conditions such as Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) and eye disorders like cataracts or Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA).Due to the high probability of both accidental injuries and chronic genetic conditions, the Whippet has a breed vulnerability score of 6 out of 10.While routine annual vet care may average between $500 and $800, treating a common Whippet ailment can be expensive: cruciate ligament surgery can cost $3,000-$8,000, and long-term management of heart disease can exceed $2,000 annually.Many standard insurance plans are a poor fit for Whippets, as they may have long waiting periods for orthopedic injuries, exclude hereditary heart or eye conditions, or impose low payout caps that are insufficient for major surgery or chronic care.To ensure your Whippet is protected, consider insurers offering robust coverage for their specific needs.➡️ Trupanion is an excellent choice for managing chronic illnesses like MVD, thanks to its per-condition deductible and no payout limits.➡️ Fetch offers comprehensive coverage that includes hereditary conditions, physical therapy for injuries, and vet exam fees.➡️ Spot provides a valuable unlimited payout option, ideal for covering high-cost emergencies like fractures or major surgery.➡️ Healthy Paws is another top option with no payout caps, ensuring coverage for major, unexpected cardiac or orthopedic treatments.Below, you will find a complete health sheet, a detailed comparison table of the best plans, and essential cost-saving tips for your Whippet.
- ✅Excellent coverage for breed-specific hereditary conditions like Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) and eye disorders.
- ✅Top-tier plans offer high or unlimited annual payout limits suitable for major surgeries or chronic cardiac care.
- ✅Comprehensive coverage for accident-related costs, including physical therapy, which is vital for an athletic breed.
- ❌Premiums may be higher to reflect the breed's combined risk of high-cost injuries and genetic conditions.
- ❌Most recommended plans impose a waiting period of 6 months or more for orthopedic conditions, particularly cruciate ligament injuries.
- ✅Excellent coverage for breed-specific hereditary conditions like Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) and eye disorders.
- ✅Top-tier plans offer high or unlimited annual payout limits suitable for major surgeries or chronic cardiac care.
- ✅Comprehensive coverage for accident-related costs, including physical therapy, which is vital for an athletic breed.
Whippet : Health & Insurance
- ✅Excellent coverage for breed-specific hereditary conditions like Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) and eye disorders.
- ✅Top-tier plans offer high or unlimited annual payout limits suitable for major surgeries or chronic cardiac care.
- ✅Comprehensive coverage for accident-related costs, including physical therapy, which is vital for an athletic breed.
- ❌Premiums may be higher to reflect the breed's combined risk of high-cost injuries and genetic conditions.
- ❌Most recommended plans impose a waiting period of 6 months or more for orthopedic conditions, particularly cruciate ligament injuries.
- ✅Excellent coverage for breed-specific hereditary conditions like Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) and eye disorders.
- ✅Top-tier plans offer high or unlimited annual payout limits suitable for major surgeries or chronic cardiac care.
- ✅Comprehensive coverage for accident-related costs, including physical therapy, which is vital for an athletic breed.
- Whippet 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 Whippet 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 Whippet's life.
Whippet: At a Glance
| 🐶 Whippet Characteristics | Details |
|---|---|
| 🕰️ Average lifespan | 12–15 years |
| 🧠 Temperament | Affectionate, gentle, intelligent, calm at home yet playful; enjoys snuggling and often forms strong family bonds |
| 🐕 Lifestyle needs | Requires daily exercise (running in secure area), but is a calm, low-key companion indoors; enjoys regular interaction and soft bedding |
| 🫶🏻 Physical traits | Sleek, slender build; deep chest, long neck, noticeably fine skin and thin fur; streamlined and athletic |
| 📑 Animal type/category | Sighthound; Sporting/Hunting dog |
| 🐾 Trainability | Highly trainable, quick learner, responds best to positive reinforcement; can be sensitive, so gentle methods recommended |
| 👶🏻 Child-friendly? | Yes (with supervision); excellent with respectful children due to their gentle nature |
| 🧗♀️ Stairs compatibility | Yes (typically no issues, agile and lightfooted) |
| 📏 Size (puppy/adult) | Puppy: 8–18 lbs, 10–16 in; Adult: 25–40 lbs, 18–22 in (height at shoulder varies slightly by gender) |
| ⚖️ Weight (puppy/adult) | Puppy: 8–18 lbs; Adult: 25–40 lbs |
| 🧥 Coat & grooming | Short, fine coat; low shedding; easy grooming (occasional brushing), prefers warmth—coat recommended in cold weather |
| 💰 Purchase price | $1,000–$2,500 (from a reputable breeder; lower from rescues) |
| ❤️ Popularity (US) | Moderately popular; ranked around #59 (AKC, 2023) |
| 🩺 Food & health budget | $900–$2,000/year (quality food, routine veterinary care, recommended insurance for breed-prone injuries and hereditary conditions) |
| 🏥 Health risks | Fragile: Prone to musculoskeletal injuries, thin skin lacerations, cardiac disease (MVD), eye problems (PRA, cataracts), anesthesia sensitivity, rare autoimmune disorders |
*Legend: Key facts about Whippet in US.*
The Relevance of Pet Insurance for a Whippet
Breed Risk Index for Whippet: 7/10
Whippets have a moderate-to-high breed medical risk profile. Their main vulnerabilities stem from their athletic build and unique sighthound physiology. Verified veterinary data, including sources such as the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) and results from breed health surveys (e.g., UK Kennel Club, American Whippet Club, and peer-reviewed studies), report the following major factors for this score:
- Frequent musculoskeletal injuries: High-speed running predisposes Whippets to muscle sprains, fractures, and cruciate ligament tears. Orthopedic surgeries and prolonged rehabilitation costs are significant and expected.
- Genetic cardiac disease: Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) is observed in the breed, often leading to chronic, expensive management with medication and diagnostic tests, as detailed in Veterinary Cardiology studies.
- Eye disorders: Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and cataracts are confirmed in Whippet lineages (OFA, breed club data), incurring ongoing ophthalmic evaluations and, rarely, surgical intervention.
- Thin skin and anesthesia sensitivity: Whippets’ delicate skin increases the risk of traumatic lacerations requiring suturing and post-operative care. Their sighthound physiology also makes them sensitive to anesthesia, necessitating specialized protocols and close monitoring in vet settings.
- Chronic or lifelong needs, exclusion risk: Hereditary and orthopedic issues typically require long-term treatment and can face policy exclusions or long waiting times, as confirmed by leading pet insurers and breed club insurance advisory panels.
These factors justify a 7/10 risk score—lower than breeds with higher rates of internal organ or airway disease, but clearly elevated due to orthopedic emergencies, genetic disease, and specialized veterinary requirements. Early, comprehensive insurance with robust hereditary/orthopedic/chronic cover is strongly advised.
🩺 Health conditions & veterinary costs for Whippet
| Type of Condition | Example Condition | 📊 Occurrence frequency | Treatment / Care | Average Cost & Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Common illnesses | Lacerations (cuts, wounds) | Frequent due to thin skin | Suturing, antibiotics, wound care | $350–$800/incident – ✔️ Accident/injury cover |
| Hereditary diseases | Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) | Notable incidence in adults | Echocardiography, lifelong meds | $800–$3,500/year – ✔️ Hereditary/chronic cover |
| Chronic conditions | Progressive Retinal Atrophy | Seen in older dogs | Specialist monitoring, vision aids | $300–$700/year – ✔️ Ophthalmology coverage |
| Age/species-related risks | Cataracts | More frequent with age | Monitoring, possible eye surgery | $2,000–$3,000 (surgery) – ✔️ Major illness cover |
| Behavioral risks | Anxiety, noise sensitivity | Reported in some individuals | Behavioral therapy, training | $200–$600/year – ⚠️ Sometimes excluded |
| Emergency or accident risks | Leg fractures/sprains | Moderate (athletic/active breed) | Surgery, splint/cast, rehab | $1,500–$4,000/incident – ✔️ Orthopedic cover |
| Preventive care needed | Cardiac screening, dental | Recommended annually | Exams, cleanings, minor interventions | $300–$600/year – ✔️ Preventive/routine plan |
The Best Insurance Plans for Whippet
After thoroughly reviewing and comparing all available General Terms & Conditions (GTC) and Insurance Product Information Documents (IPID), I set out to determine which US pet insurance providers offer the most suitable coverage for a Whippet. This comparison is based on a rigorous cross-check of:
- Guarantees: such as reimbursement levels, covered treatments, and annual payout limits
- Exclusions: with particular focus on breed-specific risks and hereditary condition coverage
- Policy flexibility: including waiting periods, age restrictions, and deductible models
Here is the synthesized ranking of the best US insurers for Whippet owners:
| Insurer | 💬 Verdict | 🛡️ Key Coverage Strengths | ❌ Exclusions / Weak Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fetch | ✅ High breed adaptation |
|
|
| Spot | ✅ High breed adaptation |
|
|
| Trupanion | ✅ High breed adaptation |
|
|
| Healthy Paws | ✅ High breed adaptation |
|
|
| Prudent Pet | ✅ High breed adaptation |
|
|
| Embrace | ✅ High breed adaptation |
|
|
| Figo | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation |
|
|
| Pets Best | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation |
|
|
| Hartville | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation |
|
|
| ASPCA | ⚠️ Moderate breed adaptation |
|
|
| AKC/PetPartners | ❌ Low breed adaptation |
|
|
| Lemonade | ❌ Low breed adaptation |
|
|
| Nationwide/VPI | ❌ Low breed adaptation |
|
|
| Safeco | ❌ Low breed adaptation |
|
|
| Metlife | ❌ Low breed adaptation |
|
|
| Physicians Mutual | ❌ Low breed adaptation |
|
|
| Kanguro | ❌ Low breed adaptation |
|
|
| Many Pets | ❌ Low breed adaptation |
|
|
- Covers hereditary & breed-specific conditions
- Exam fees for sick visits are included
- Physical therapy & alternative care
- Comprehensive dental coverage
- Waiting period for knee/ligament issues (waivable with vet exam)
- Premiums may increase following claims
- Covers hereditary & chronic conditions
- Behavioral & alternative therapy included
- Customizable annual limits, deductibles & reimbursement
- No age cap
- 14-day waiting period for accidents
- Knee/ligament conditions remain as pre-existing if not cured
- No annual or lifetime payout limits
- Hereditary & congenital conditions included
- Per-condition deductible
- Direct vet payment
- Does not cover vet exam fees
- 30-day waiting period for illnesses
- No per-incident/annual/lifetime payout caps
- Covers hereditary & congenital conditions
- Fast claims app process
- Does not cover vet exam fees
- 12-month hip dysplasia waiting period
- Unlimited annual benefit option
- Hereditary & congenital conditions covered
- 24/7 live vet chat
- Excellent customer ratings
- 6-month waiting period for knee conditions (can be waived)
- Co-pay applied before deductible
- Covers exam fees, alternative therapies & behavioral care
- Hereditary & congenital conditions
- Curable pre-existing conditions (after 12 months)
- 6-month waiting period for orthopedic conditions (can be reduced/waived with vet exam)
- Diminishing deductible for claim-free years
- Optional riders for exam fees, wellness & rehab
- 24/7 vet access
- 6-month orthopedic waiting period (can be waived with vet exam form)
- Mixed customer reviews on claims process
- Unlimited annual limit option
- 24/7 pet helpline
- Fast 3-day injury waiting period
- Script meds not in base plan (needs rider)
- 6-month cruciate ligament waiting period
- Accidents, illnesses & hereditary conditions covered
- Behavioral & alternative therapies
- Curable pre-existing after 180 days
- 14-day waiting period for accidents
- Negative reviews re: admin/billing
- Hereditary/behavioral/alternative therapy covered
- Microchip included
- 14-day waiting for accidents
- Many complaints for claim denials (pre-existing)
- Covers pre-existing after 365 days
- Highly modular with add-ons
- Hereditary/congenital not included without expensive rider
- 180-day cruciate waiting period
- Fast, digital-first claims
- Bundle and multi-pet discounts
- Excludes physical therapy, behavioral and dental illness in base
- 6-month waiting for cruciate ligament
- Wellness add-on options
- Long-standing company
- 1-year cruciate ligament waiting period
- Fixed benefit schedules/low annual cap ($7,500 common)
- Modular with endorsements for hereditary/alternative care
- Hereditary excluded from base
- $10,000 annual limit may be low
- 1-year cruciate ligament waiting period
- Exam fees & holistic care
- Deductible reduced with no claims
- $5,000 annual limit often insufficient
- Lowest customer ratings
- Diminishing deductible
- Wellness and rehab riders
- Very low customer reviews
- 6-month orthopedic waiting period
- Hereditary/genetic included
- Digital-first platform
- 14-day accident, 6-month knee waiting periods
- $1,000 sub-limit for dental care/euthanasia
- No annual/lifetime limits, exam fees covered
- Exiting US market, unstable, poor customer satisfaction
You can explore and compare these insurance options directly on our comparison tool to find the plan that fits your Whippet's needs and your budget.
👉 Compare the best pet insurance online.I compareHow to Choose the Best Insurance for Your Whippet?
For a Whippet, selecting the right insurance plan requires special attention to their athletic and breed-specific risks. Choose a policy with a high annual limit—ideally at least $2,000—to cover potential orthopedic surgeries (e.g., cruciate ligament repair can exceed $2,500 per incident) and chronic cardiac care, both of which are more common in Whippets than in many breeds. Look for a high reimbursement rate (80–100%) to reduce out-of-pocket costs, especially since Whippets are prone to recurring issues like muscle injuries and hereditary conditions such as Mitral Valve Disease or Progressive Retinal Atrophy.
A low annual deductible (preferably under $100) can help manage repeated vet visits for maintenance care or unexpected injuries. Always scrutinize exclusions for breed-specific, chronic, or genetic conditions—some providers may not cover issues like heart disease or hereditary eye problems. Subscribe early, before any symptoms emerge or treatments begin, to avoid denied claims for “pre-existing conditions,” which is a common policy restriction in all major US pet insurance contracts.
How to Save on Pet Insurance for Your Whippet
| Savings Tip | How It Works | Impact on Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Opt for annual payment | Paying yearly instead of monthly eliminates administrative installment fees, reducing total cost. | Medium |
| Start coverage as a puppy | Insuring a Whippet before age 1 locks in lower risk rates, before conditions like heart disease or orthopedic injuries manifest. | High |
| Submit preventive care records | Providing vet records showing dental cleanings and cardiac screenings can demonstrate your Whippet’s low risk, qualifying for discounts with some carriers. | Medium |
| Avoid accident-only plans for active dogs | These seem cheap, but Whippets are prone to hereditary illnesses; investing in full illness+accident cover prevents expensive uninsured claims later. | Medium |
| Choose reimbursement-by-service plans | Selecting reimbursement based on actual vet bills (not benefit schedules) ensures you receive maximum value on high Whippet-specific claims (e.g., cruciate ligament repair). | High |
FAQ
What health conditions are most common in Whippets?
Whippets are prone to musculoskeletal injuries, such as muscle sprains, fractures, and cruciate ligament tears, due to their athletic build and speed. Cardiac issues—especially Mitral Valve Disease—are also relatively common. Additionally, they can be affected by hereditary eye conditions like Progressive Retinal Atrophy and cataracts.
Does pet insurance cover hereditary or genetic conditions in Whippets?
Not all plans automatically cover hereditary or breed-specific conditions. You should carefully check each policy for explicit coverage of genetic disorders such as Mitral Valve Disease or Progressive Retinal Atrophy, as these can become costly over time.
Why is early enrollment in pet insurance important for Whippets?
Enrolling your Whippet in insurance before any symptoms or accidents occur ensures those future conditions aren’t classified as pre-existing and excluded from coverage. Early subscription locks in protection for hereditary and chronic issues before they are diagnosed.
Are cruciate ligament injuries covered by pet insurance for Whippets?
Many policies do cover cruciate ligament injuries, but often impose a waiting period (commonly 6–12 months). Some insurers may waive or reduce the wait if you provide a clear vet exam when starting the policy, so be sure to ask before enrolling.
How can I find the best insurance for my Whippet’s needs?
Use a pet insurance comparison tool to evaluate different providers, paying special attention to annual limits (at least $2,000), reimbursement rates (80–100%), low annual deductibles, and policies that do not exclude breed-specific risks. Always read the fine print regarding pre-existing condition definitions.
Does pet insurance help with the cost of Whippet injuries at the veterinarian?
Yes, provided you choose a policy that covers accidents and injuries, insurance can reimburse the cost of treatment for broken bones, cuts, or muscle injuries—common issues for active Whippets. Some plans also cover exam fees and physical therapy, which offer additional savings.
What are common exclusions to watch for in Whippet pet insurance?
Typical exclusions include pre-existing conditions, certain hereditary diseases, behavioral issues, and sometimes elective procedures. For Whippets, make sure orthopedic issues, dental injuries, and chronic cardiac care are not excluded from your plan.
Can I insure an older Whippet?
Most insurers allow you to enroll adult or senior Whippets, but your options may decrease and premiums may rise with age. Earlier enrollment results in broader coverage and fewer exclusions, so it’s best to start while your Whippet is still young and healthy.
What health conditions are most common in Whippets?
Whippets are prone to musculoskeletal injuries, such as muscle sprains, fractures, and cruciate ligament tears, due to their athletic build and speed. Cardiac issues—especially Mitral Valve Disease—are also relatively common. Additionally, they can be affected by hereditary eye conditions like Progressive Retinal Atrophy and cataracts.
Does pet insurance cover hereditary or genetic conditions in Whippets?
Not all plans automatically cover hereditary or breed-specific conditions. You should carefully check each policy for explicit coverage of genetic disorders such as Mitral Valve Disease or Progressive Retinal Atrophy, as these can become costly over time.
Why is early enrollment in pet insurance important for Whippets?
Enrolling your Whippet in insurance before any symptoms or accidents occur ensures those future conditions aren’t classified as pre-existing and excluded from coverage. Early subscription locks in protection for hereditary and chronic issues before they are diagnosed.
Are cruciate ligament injuries covered by pet insurance for Whippets?
Many policies do cover cruciate ligament injuries, but often impose a waiting period (commonly 6–12 months). Some insurers may waive or reduce the wait if you provide a clear vet exam when starting the policy, so be sure to ask before enrolling.
How can I find the best insurance for my Whippet’s needs?
Use a pet insurance comparison tool to evaluate different providers, paying special attention to annual limits (at least $2,000), reimbursement rates (80–100%), low annual deductibles, and policies that do not exclude breed-specific risks. Always read the fine print regarding pre-existing condition definitions.
Does pet insurance help with the cost of Whippet injuries at the veterinarian?
Yes, provided you choose a policy that covers accidents and injuries, insurance can reimburse the cost of treatment for broken bones, cuts, or muscle injuries—common issues for active Whippets. Some plans also cover exam fees and physical therapy, which offer additional savings.
What are common exclusions to watch for in Whippet pet insurance?
Typical exclusions include pre-existing conditions, certain hereditary diseases, behavioral issues, and sometimes elective procedures. For Whippets, make sure orthopedic issues, dental injuries, and chronic cardiac care are not excluded from your plan.
Can I insure an older Whippet?
Most insurers allow you to enroll adult or senior Whippets, but your options may decrease and premiums may rise with age. Earlier enrollment results in broader coverage and fewer exclusions, so it’s best to start while your Whippet is still young and healthy.
