Top 9 Pet Insurance Plans For French Bulldogs (2024)

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The French Bulldog breed’s popularity has soared in recent years, and it’s no wonder. These adorable squish-faced dogs entertain us with their goofy antics and warm our hearts with their affectionate nature.

Unfortunately, the French Bulldog breed is predisposed to certain medical conditions. While these health issues can be expensive to treat, you may be able to cover the high costs if you invest in pet insurance for your dog early.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when it comes to choosing the right pet insurance plan for your beloved Frenchie. This guide will help you select a plan that covers everything you want it to, so you can be there for your dog when they need you most.

Compare The Top 9 Pet Insurance Plans for Your French Bulldog Using our Free No-Obligation Quote Tool below

The simplest way to compare pet insurance prices is to use our tool below. The comparison tool will show you quotes from the top 9 pet insurance carriers, including Trupanion, Pets Best, Lemonade, ManyPets, FIGO, HealthyPaws, Prudent Pet, Spot, and Embrace pet insurance.

How Much Does Pet Insurance for a French Bulldog Cost?

Below are some sample pet insurance plans for a 1-year-old male French Bulldog using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example.

• Pets Best – $81.84 per month
• Embrace – $67.73 per month
• Healthy Paws – $59.13 per month
• ManyPets – $74.84 per month

Ultimately, your plan’s premium will depend on several factors, including your dog’s age, size, and breed, as well as where you live. You also want to know what type of coverage your plan has and if it will help with French Bulldog-specific health problems. Let’s get more into those medical conditions and how much you can expect to pay to treat them.

Common Health Problems Associated With French Bulldogs

Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome in French Bulldogs

As you may already know, the cute squishy faces we love about French Bulldogs also make them prone to breathing problems. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome is the term for several conditions associated with short-muzzled dogs: an elongated soft palate (which leads to windpipe obstruction), stenotic nares (narrowed nostrils), and everted laryngeal saccules. 

Blocked airways are obviously serious, so look out for these warning signs:

• Exercise intolerance
• Coughing
• Loud breathing
• Retching or gagging
• Bluish Gums
• Fainting

Sady, 70% of French Bulldogs will be diagnosed with at least one of the BAS conditions.

Conjunctivitis in French Bulldogs

Usually caused by bacterial or viral infections and allergies, conjunctivitis (a.k.a. “pink eye”) is more common in brachycephalic dogs like Frenchies. Severe conjunctivitis could stem from blocked ducts in the eye, which will require surgery.

Look out for pink or red eyes or if your dog blinks more than usual. They also may have mucus, pus, or discharge leaking from their eyes.

Cherry Eye in French Bulldogs

Your French Bulldog may also suffer from “Cherry Eye” (a.k.a. prolapsed nictitans gland). Dogs have a third eyelid, and this condition involves the prolapse of the gland in the third eyelid.

You’ll notice a reddish lump in the corner of your dog’s eye. Not only is Cherry Eye painful, but it could also get to the point of obscuring your dog’s vision. They might paw at their eyes, which could make it worse.

Heat Stroke in French Bulldogs

Because dogs can’t regulate their body temperature as easily as humans can, they can overheat quickly in warm weather. Flat-faced dogs like French Bulldogs are especially at risk for heatstroke.

Beyond dehydration, dogs suffering from heatstroke can lose consciousness and even experience organ failure. That’s why it’s so important to keep your dog cool, consistently provide them with water (regardless of weather), and not keep them in direct sunlight for too long. 

If you sense your dog might be suffering from heatstroke, take them to the vet immediately. Symptoms of heatstroke in dogs include:

• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Vomiting blood
• Muscle tremors
• Seizures

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in French Bulldogs

When a disc between the vertebrates in a dog’s spinal column deteriorates and calcifies, it can rupture with too much movement. A diseased or ruptured disc can press on your Frenchie’s spinal column, leading to extreme pain and even paralysis. They’ll probably need surgery to correct the issue.

Dogs with short, stocky legs like French Bulldogs are more likely to suffer from this health condition.

Typical Costs Of Treating Health Issues In French Bulldogs and How Pet Insurance Can Help

If left untreated, many of the health conditions listed above can result in long-term consequences and even require surgery, which ultimately makes them more expensive to manage. Selecting a pet insurance plan suited for your French Bulldog’s particular needs might save you tons of money on medical costs.

Here are just some sample veterinary expenses for Frenchies:

• Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome Costs: This depends on the symptoms and causes of breathing difficulty. Soft palate resection surgery costs $500-$1,500. Stenotic nares resection may cost $200 – $1,000. Surgery to repair tracheal collapse can range anywhere from $3,500 to $6,500.
• Conjunctivitis Costs: This will also depend on the condition, so it could cost you $50, or you might end up paying $3,000 per eye if surgery is required.
• Cherry Eye Costs: Anti-inflammatory meds will help, but surgery is the only way to completely get rid of Cherry Eye. Doctors will either stitch the gland back in place or remove it completely. You could spend anywhere from $400 – $1,000.
• Heat Stroke Costs: Heatstroke can be deadly, so the quicker you take your dog to the vet, the better. Minor heatstroke will require IV fluids and oxygen administration. If the condition is severe, it may require a hospital stay. The average heat stroke claim is around $1,300.
• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) Costs: Caught early enough, IVDD can be treated with non-invasive treatments like pain medication and exercise control. In severe cases, however, surgery can cost between $1,500 and $4,000. Those costs also don’t include the price of X-rays and other imaging techniques, which can add hundreds to thousands of dollars onto your bill.

Knowing the signs and symptoms of these conditions common in French Bulldogs can help you catch them early, saving your dog and your money. When in doubt, take your pup to the vet to have them diagnosed.

What Is Pet Health Insurance And Why Do I Need It For My French Bulldog?

Pet health insurance works very similarly to human health insurance. Your policy quote will range in monthly price, depending on your dog’s breed, age, and where you live. Typically, you’ll spend around $15-$129 per month as a pet parent.

Pet insurance is mainly about peace of mind, knowing you won’t be totally overwhelmed in case of an emergency. Enrolling even when your dog is young and healthy will ensure you have plenty of coverage when they need expensive medical care later. If you choose a plan more suited to your dog’s particular breed, you’ll be more prepared when something happens later on in their life.

Some plans cover accidents and illnesses, while others only cover accidents. Certain plans do cover breed-specific illnesses, and others do not. It all depends on what type of coverage you choose. With our free pet insurance comparison tool, you can get quotes from multiple insurance companies with no obligation to commit.

Whatever plan you choose, you’ll feel better knowing you can take care of your dog when they need you most. Plus, you won’t have to suddenly shell out thousands of dollars. Learn more about how pet insurance works here.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About French Bulldog Pet Insurance

 

1. What specific health issues should I consider when purchasing pet insurance for a French Bulldog?

French Bulldogs are prone to certain breed-specific conditions like hip dysplasia, brachycephalic syndrome, and allergies. It’s essential to choose pet insurance that covers these conditions for your French Bulldog to ensure they can receive the necessary medical care without high out-of-pocket expenses.

2. How much does pet insurance typically cost for a French Bulldog?

The cost of pet insurance for a French Bulldog can vary depending on factors like age, health, and coverage plan. Given the breed’s susceptibility to specific health conditions, premiums may be higher compared to other breeds, generally ranging from $35 to $70 per month.

3. Is a French Bulldog more expensive to insure than other breeds?

French Bulldogs can be more expensive to insure due to their predisposition to various health issues such as brachycephalic syndrome and hip dysplasia. These breed-specific conditions often require ongoing treatment, which can drive up insurance costs.

4. Will pet insurance cover genetic conditions in my French Bulldog?

Some pet insurance companies cover hereditary and congenital conditions, common in French Bulldogs. However, coverage varies by provider and policy, so you’ll need to ensure your selected plan covers these conditions for your French Bulldog.

5. Can pet insurance providers deny coverage for my French Bulldog because of its breed?

While pet insurance providers cannot deny coverage outright due to your dog’s breed, they might exclude certain conditions typical to French Bulldogs or charge higher premiums. Always inquire about breed-specific conditions when purchasing pet insurance for your French Bulldog.

6. Are there any specific pet insurance providers you recommend for a French Bulldog?

Several pet insurance providers offer comprehensive coverage for breed-specific conditions common in French Bulldogs, including Trupanion, Healthy Paws, and Nationwide. Be sure to compare these options to find the best coverage for your French Bulldog.

7. How does age affect pet insurance coverage and costs for my French Bulldog?

As your French Bulldog ages, the cost of pet insurance generally increases due to the increased risk of health issues. Some providers may also limit coverage for older French Bulldogs, making it crucial to start your coverage when your dog is still young.

8. Are dental issues common in French Bulldogs, and will pet insurance cover them?

Yes, dental issues are common in French Bulldogs due to their unique jaw and mouth shape. Some pet insurance policies cover dental illnesses, but it’s important to confirm this before purchasing a policy for your French Bulldog.

9. Will pet insurance cover potential allergy treatments for my French Bulldog?

French Bulldogs are often prone to allergies which can require ongoing treatment. Most comprehensive pet insurance policies should cover the cost of allergy treatments for your French Bulldog, but always verify this with the provider.

10. Can I get my French Bulldog’s hip dysplasia covered by pet insurance?

Hip dysplasia, common in French Bulldogs, can be covered by pet insurance, but usually, it’s not covered if it’s a pre-existing condition. It’s essential to check this while choosing an insurance plan for your French Bulldog.

11. What type of pet insurance is best for a French Bulldog with brachycephalic syndrome?

Comprehensive pet insurance is recommended for French Bulldogs with brachycephalic syndrome as it often covers a wide range of treatments, including surgery if needed. Always verify this with your insurance provider.

12. Can I get pet insurance for my French Bulldog if it’s older or has pre-existing conditions?

While it’s possible to get pet insurance for an older French Bulldog or one with pre-existing conditions, it may not cover those pre-existing conditions, and premiums may be higher. Always disclose these conditions upfront to understand the coverage limits.

13. How do I file a claim if my French Bulldog needs treatment?

After your French Bulldog receives veterinary care, you will submit a claim form and the vet bill to your pet insurance provider. They will then review the claim and, if approved, reimburse the covered portion of the cost.

14. Are regular check-ups and vaccinations covered for my French Bulldog under pet insurance?

Regular check-ups and vaccinations for your French Bulldog might be covered under some pet insurance plans, especially if you choose a policy that includes a wellness plan. However, these are not typically covered under standard plans, so it’s important to check.

15. Will pet insurance cover the cost of spaying or neutering my French Bulldog?

Most basic pet insurance plans do not cover the cost of spaying or neutering a French Bulldog. However, some providers offer wellness plans as an add-on to your policy that may cover these procedures, so it’s worth checking this option.

16. Does pet insurance cover emergencies or accidents involving my French Bulldog?

Yes, most pet insurance plans do cover emergencies and accidents involving your French Bulldog. These could range from injuries due to a fall or car accident to sudden illnesses like poisoning. Always confirm the extent of accident and emergency coverage in your plan.

17. Can I use any vet or do I need to use a specific network for my French Bulldog’s care?

Most pet insurance policies allow you to use any licensed veterinarian for your French Bulldog’s care, which includes specialists and emergency providers. You typically pay upfront for the services and then file a claim for reimbursement with your insurance provider.

18. What’s the best way to compare pet insurance options for my French Bulldog?

When comparing pet insurance options for your French Bulldog, consider factors like the coverage of breed-specific conditions, cost, customer reviews, the claim process, and exclusions. Online comparison tools can be helpful, and it’s always beneficial to get quotes from multiple providers.

19. What kind of tests or procedures are covered for diagnosing health issues in my French Bulldog?

Pet insurance typically covers a range of diagnostic tests for your French Bulldog, including blood tests, X-rays, MRI scans, and more, if they are related to a covered condition. The specifics can vary between providers and policies, so always verify this in the policy details.

20. How can I reduce the cost of pet insurance for my French Bulldog?

To reduce the cost of pet insurance for your French Bulldog, consider a higher deductible, but remember this means a higher out-of-pocket cost if your pet needs care. Additionally, maintaining your French Bulldog’s health with regular vet visits and preventive care can also help keep premiums lower.

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