Not all dogs are created equal. One look at a basset hound, a Great Dane, and a toy poodle, and you’ll wonder how these three equally lovable but vastly unique animals could be considered the same species. Their differing features also require varying care and attention to health problems. Some dogs are just more likely to suffer injury or illness than others. With that in mind, make sure you have proper pet insurance for the following five dog breeds.
1. Basset Hound
A low-slung, belly-drooping, wrinkly tub of love and loyalty, the basset hound can be a great family pet. Unfortunately, the adorable short legs on these French hunting dogs have to carry a lot of weight, which can lead to health problems, especially hip and back problems. Owners should also be aware of stomach trouble like bloat.
Basset hounds tend to be slaves to their heightened sense of smell, making them insatiable eaters. Their weight should be constantly monitored as a way of ensuring steady health. As a result, their life expectancy is a tad lower than most breeds at around 10-12 years. Anyone who has ever owned one of these pups, however, will tell you that getting quality coverage for dogs like this is well worth it because they are such great companions.
2. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
A beautiful, multicolored large working-class pooch, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog (GSMD) originated centuries ago in the Swiss Alps. They are known to be social yet calm. Although relatively healthy for dogs of their size (up to 140 pounds for a male), they have the highest average pet insurance claim of all breeds at $425. Should that fact influence your decision to raise one of these majestic-looking animals? Breeders and trainers would say categorically no, as the GSMD has a gentle disposition and is highly trainable and obedient to their human counterparts.
3. Cane Corso
This massively impressive specimen makes for an excellent guard dog. One look at the sheer size, muscular build, and somewhat intimidating expression is enough to ward off any intruder. A deeper investigation into the breed, however, reveals that they are mostly gentle giants.
The Cane Corso (also known as the Italian mastiff) is one of the most well-rounded breeds in the world. They are known to be gentle, intelligent, athletic, fearless, and highly trainable. Nonetheless, idiopathic epilepsy, mange, and eyelid abnormalities are common problems that can arise. Most coverage options for pets will take care of the relatively frequent care of these issues.
4. American Staffordshire Terrier
Also known as a “pit bull,” this breed gets a bad rap due to the minority of unscrupulous people who train them for fighting. When raised properly and treated with love and care, the American Staffordshire terrier is smart, playful, and a great dog for kids.
Pet insurance is recommended for these dogs because if they are provoked and unleashed, they may get into a fight with another dog, leading to injuries.
5. Bernese Mountain Dog
It’s difficult for an animal to be as awe-inspiring as the Bernese Mountain Dog (BMD). Intelligent, affectionate, and loyal to a fault, this dog also has a distinct “peanut butter” appearance of brown mixed with black and white.
Sadly, the BMD has a life expectancy of just 6-9 years, one of the shortest of any breed. For unknown reasons, these dogs have the unfortunate characteristic of being nearly twice as likely as any other dog breed to suffer from a fatal form of cancer.
If you own a BMD, don’t let that information get you down. Get a great insurance policy for dogs, and you’ll have the best treatments available if your furry friend acquires an illness. Medication and surgeries are available that can increase your dog’s quality of life and overall lifespan. Just make sure you have the coverage to help that happen.
Where Can You Get Great Coverage for Your Dog Today?
Although these dogs are considered high-risk, all dogs are susceptible to injury or illness of some kind. Treatments often cost a few hundred dollars for minor incidents. Severe illness can result in high-priced medication or chemotherapy. Recovering from a major injury, which can happen to any dog or human, can often cost several thousand dollars. Make sure your furry family member, regardless of breed, is covered today.
Whether you have a 200-pound bull mastiff or a 4-pound Chihuahua, Freeway Insurance has a policy that can suit the unique pet insurance needs of your BFF (Best Fur Friend). Get a fast and free online quote for pet insurance, reach out to us by phone at (800) 777-5620 or stop by one of our convenient locations.
