The breed born to herd, the German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds, not just in the US, but the entire world. This is probably because they aren’t just a dogs; they’re four-legged superheroes wrapped in fur, ready to guard your home, herd your kids, or save the world—all before breakfast.
Read more about dog insurance here
Even superheroes need a safety net at times. And with a dog like a German Shepherd whose nose can take them places, sometimes dangerous, you will definitely need one. This is where pet insurance can help protect your buddy and your wallet.
But before we get on to the insurance costs for these beasts, here are some interesting facts about German Shepherds that will help make you feel like a proud owner if you already own one or will fast forward your decision if you’re planning to bring one home – (1)
They rank third in most canine intelligence lists after Border Collie and Poodle. This speaks to their obedience, social awareness, ability to solve problems independently, training, memory, etc.
They are also one of the fastest dogs out there that can reach a speed of up to 30 mph.
They are extensively used by militaries and police forces across the world for tasks like narcotics and explosive detection.
They are Hollywood Stars! Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart are two German Shepherds with stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Fascinating, right?
Now that you’re learning about German shepherds, it is important to know one more very important thing about them – the medical conditions they are prone to. They include – (2)
Hip/elbow dysplasia - a congenital joint-related disease passed down from a parent to its offspring.
Degenerative Myelopathy – A disease that results in progressive hind limb weakness and paralysis.
Allergies – Skin allergies commonly seen on their face, ears, paws, sides, hind end, legs and stomach.
Osteosarcoma – A type of bone cancer that usually affects large breeds.
Eye problems – Inherited conditions like cataracts.
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency – Degenerative disease of the pancreas
Looks like a long list? Don’t worry. Not all of these conditions will affect a GSD in their life. It’s just that these conditions are more common in these dogs as compared to others. However, individual health may differ from dog to dog.
It is important to know this because the insurance premium rates are calculated using these details. Other factors that can affect the premium include age, location, previous medical history, type of coverage, etc.
The premium rates can also vary from location to location because every geography comes with a lifestyle, and the chances of a dog getting into an accident or infected by bacteria or other pathogens may also vary.
How Much is The Average Premium for German Shepherds?
The average monthly insurance premium for German Shepherds is $52.01†. The quote may vary depending on the type of coverage you choose. You can consider this figure for a young pup without any medical history.
How Many Claims Did German Shepherd Owners Make?
German Shepherd owners account for 27,106† claims. The number may seem huge here but don’t forget that they are one of the most popular breeds out there.
Is Pet Insurance Worth it for German Shepherds?
Looking at the list of medical conditions German Shepherds are prone to during their life, a monthly premium of around $52† can feel worth it when you see a vet bill with four digits on it.
Some medical conditions may be minor and may need just a few doses of medicine from the vet to be treated. However, there are some conditions which may need extensive treatment and even surgery.
Now, there is a chance that you may never need to claim insurance because you’ve got a healthy dog that does not get itself in accidents. That’s the thing with insurance, right? It’s something you wish you never have to claim, but if, unfortunately, something happens, you’ve got yourself covered.
More About Spot Pet Insurance
If you think pet insurance can help you only in times of major vet expenses like surgeries, then you’re wrong.
Our plans can help pet parents manage the eligible costs of covered veterinary care and help ensure that their pets can receive the best treatment possible. Here are some ways that Spot pet insurance plans can help:
Covers Unexpected Veterinary Costs: Spot pet insurance plans cover the eligible costs of unexpected veterinary treatments, such as emergency surgeries, X-rays, and prescription medications for covered conditions.
Customizable Plans: Choose your annual limit, reimbursement rate, and deductible from a range of options, and create the plan that will fit the needs of your pet and your budget.
Peace of Mind: With Spot pet insurance plans, pet parents can know that they can provide the best care for their pet with less worry about the cost.
To learn more about Spot Plans or to get a free quote, click here.
† Average premiums are based on current policyholders as of 2024 with accident-only or accident-and-illness plans and may vary due to plan options such as annual limit, co-insurance, and annual deductible, as well as your pet’s breed, age, and location. Quotes at purchase will reflect these factors and your specific selections. Premiums are based on and may increase or decrease due to the age of your pet, the species or breed of your pet, and your home address.
With 10 years of experience as a pet parent, I aim to empower pet owners with insights into pet insurance and maintaining their pet's well-being. I aspire to be a trusted source, combining knowledge with a commitment to the welfare of our beloved pets.
As Spot’s resident cat enthusiast, I am dedicated to researching and sharing information that helps pet owners take the best care of their pets. Pet ownership comes with it’s share of challenges, but my goal is to help make this journey easier.
Bark. (2023, January 10). 10 German Shepherd Fun facts. BARK Post. https://post.bark.co/breeds/german-shepherd-fun-facts/13 common health problems in German shepherds. (n.d.). VETERINARY FORMULA, LLC. https://www.veterinaryformula.com/blogs/news/13-common-health-problems-in-german-shepherds?srsltid=AfmBOoqJR9tqClz9Yx7_xZwq4GBzcSsCJPCieL52CTL8pxTdEI3bLDtm
