Best Small Dog Insurance

Pets Best Lemonade and Pumpkin offer the best small dog insurance based on affordability, customer experience and coverage.

Although Pets Best is the best overall option, the right choice for you depends on your small dog's specific profile and your budget.

Find and compare the best pet insurance for your small dog below.

Written by Ritchel Mendiola

Updated: March 12, 2026

Advertising & Editorial Disclosure

Best Pet Insurance Companies for Small Dogs

There's no single best pet insurance company for every small dog, but MoneyGeek found five options that deliver across affordability, customer experience and coverage:

Pets Best: Best Small Dog Insurance Overall
Lemonade: Best Small Dog Insurance Coverage Options and Terms
Pumpkin: Best Small Dog Insurance Customer Experience
ASPCA: Best Cheap Small Dog Insurance
Figo: Best for Accident-Prone Small Dogs

All five providers cover the conditions small dogs are most likely to develop, price their policies competitively against the national average and hold up when policyholders need to file a claim. Below, we summarize the value of each insurer based on your small dog's needs.


Pets Best	4.72	Pairs affordable premiums with comprehensive coverage and pays licensed veterinarians directly for covered claims.
Lemonade	4.70	Provides the most flexible policy customization options at competitive rates for small dog owners.
Pumpkin	4.69	Delivers consistent, high-quality service across buying, claims handling and policy management without sacrificing affordability.
ASPCA	4.67	Balances low monthly premiums with solid coverage, including a 14-day waiting period for knee and ligament conditions.
Figo	4.57	Covers accidents after just one day and offers a 100% reimbursement option that no other provider in our top five matches.

For our best small dog insurance ratings, we evaluated affordability, customer experience and coverage across 18 major pet insurers using over 67,000 small dog profiles representing mixed breeds and purebreds in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Our analysis focused on small dogs weighing 25 pounds and under with standardized coverage terms to ensure consistent comparisons across providers.

We analyzed pricing competitiveness across different breeds and locations, measured customer experience throughout the policy lifecycle from enrollment to claims and assessed coverage quality for small dog-specific health risks. Each insurer received a composite score based on affordability (50% of overall score), customer experience (30% of overall score) and coverage options and terms (20% of overall score).

For a detailed breakdown of the metrics, scoring methodology and analysis approach, see our full methodology.

Providers analyzed

Over 67,000

Small dog profiles analyzed

Over 10,000

Customer experiences evaluated

Best Small Dog Insurance Overall

Pets Best

Pets Best stands out as the best small dog insurance company overall, combining the cheapest rates with strong coverage for the conditions that small breeds are most likely to develop. It also offers direct vet payment, settling covered claims with your veterinarian directly so you're not covering large bills out of pocket while waiting for reimbursement.

Where Pets Best performs best:

Pet parents whose small breeds carry hereditary condition risks, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Shih Tzus and Pomeranians among them, and need those covered at an affordable price point
Small dog owners who want direct vet payment to reduce large out-of-pocket costs during emergencies

Where Pets Best performs less competitively:

Owners who value exceptional customer service as much as price
Fur parents who want immediate accident coverage

Learn more: Pets Best Pet Insurance Review

Pets Best is the cheapest small dog insurance company in our analysis, averaging $29 per month, which is 40% below the national average. Its the best option for budget-conscious pet parents who don't want to trade down on coverage to get savings. For owners who also want direct vet payment, that combination is hard to match at this price point: you get the lowest available monthly cost and the option to have Pets Best settle pay your veterinarian directly, reducing what you need to pay upfront during an emergency.

Small dog owners in the following states will find Pets Best is the most affordable option available:
- Northeast: CT, DE, NJ, NY
- Midwest: IL, IN, KS, MO, NE, SD
- South: AL, AR, FL, GA, LA, OK, TN, TX
- West: AK, AZ, ID, NM, NV

Price transparency is where Pets Best earns its clearest customer experience win, so small dog owners will have a good sense of what they're paying before committing to a policy. However, the company performed poorly in claims submission and claims speed, meaning filing your first claim and waiting for reimbursement may feel more frustrating than with higher-ranked competitors.

Check the table below to see how Pets Best performed across every customer experience category in our small dog insurance analysis, including online reviews and direct testing by our team.


Buying	Overall	4.46	13
Buying	Onboarding	4.28	17
Buying	Price Transparency	4.59	8
Buying	Sales Support	4.48	15
Claims	Appeals	4.84	8
Claims	Overall	4.35	14
Claims	Claims Fairness	4.50	14
Claims	Claims Speed	4.05	15
Claims	Submission Ease	4.00	18
Policy Management	Account Servicing	4.84	13
Policy Management	Admin Support	4.52	15
Policy Management	App UX	4.22	15
Policy Management	Billing & Renewals	3.93	9
Policy Management	Overall	4.43	14

Pets Best earns its second-place finish in our coverage ranking through its strong core inclusions and various coverage options, including an unlimited annual limit. Its three-day injury waiting period is a practical advantage for small breeds with high accident risk. However, the six-month waiting for cruciate ligament condition coverage is a drawback for small breeds like Pomeranians and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels where orthopedic issues are common.

The table below breaks down Pets Best's coverage terms, waiting periods and available add-on options for small dog insurance.


Annual limits	$5,000, $10,000, Unlimited
Deductibles	$100, $200, $250, $500, $1000
Reimbursement rates	70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting periods	3 days for accidents, 14 days for illnesses, 6 months for cruciate ligament events and related conditions
Core coverages	Veterinary treatment, diagnostic tests, surgery and hospitalization, outpatient care, medications (in-clinic), emergency care, cancer treatment, chronic disease management, hereditary and congenital conditions, behavioral conditions
Optional add-ons	Wellness plans: Covers wellness exams, vaccinations, blood work, fecal exams, urinalysis, heartworm tests, deworming, spaying/neutering and teeth cleaning based on tier. Exam fees: Reimburses the cost of vet exam fees associated with diagnosing an accident or illness. Physical therapy: Extends coverage to rehabilitation, acupuncture and chiropractic care related to a covered condition.
Pre-existing condition terms	Curable pre-existing conditions may be eligible for coverage if cured and no further treatment is needed

Best Small Dog Insurance Coverage Options and Terms

Lemonade

If policy flexibility matters as much as price, Lemonade is the strongest option for small dog insurance. The company's accident coverage starts the day you enroll with no waiting period, and its wide range of coverage options and add-ons lets owners tailor the policy to their small dog's specific health profile rather than paying for a fixed plan that may not fit.

Where Lemonade performs best:

Small dog owners with high-energy breeds where the risk of early accidents is real
Owners who want to build a policy around their dog's specific health risks
Pet parents who prefer handling enrollment, claims and reimbursements entirely through a mobile app

Where Lemonade performs less competitively:

Pet parents who want behavioral treatment, physical therapy or dental illness coverage without purchasing add-ons
Owners whose priority is the lowest possible monthly premium

Learn more: Lemonade Pet Insurance Review

Lemonade ranks fourth for affordability, providing 30% savings compared to the national average at $34 per month. This makes it a competitive option for small dog owners who want broad coverage flexibility without paying a high premium for it. Discounts for multiple pets, annual payment and policy bundling are all available, giving small dog owners practical ways to bring the monthly rate down without reducing coverage.

Lemonade is the cheapest option for small dogs in the following states:
- Midwest: MI, OH
- South: MS, SC
- West: MT, UT, WA

While Lemonade ranks 11th for customer experience overall, its claims speed is its strongest feature, meaning small dog owners typically get reimbursed faster than with most competitors after a vet visit. That said, the buying experience tells a different story: Lemonade's price transparency ranks 13th, which can make it harder to know exactly what you'll pay before you commit.

See the table below for a full breakdown of how Lemonade performed across every customer experience category in our small dog insurance analysis, including online reviews and direct testing by our team.


Buying	Overall	4.52	12
Buying	Onboarding	4.60	12
Buying	Price Transparency	4.36	13
Buying	Sales Support	4.60	11
Claims	Appeals	4.65	13
Claims	Overall	4.62	11
Claims	Claims Fairness	4.68	11
Claims	Claims Speed	4.51	7
Claims	Submission Ease	4.61	12
Policy Management	Account Servicing	4.87	11
Policy Management	Admin Support	4.84	10
Policy Management	App UX	4.64	13
Policy Management	Billing & Renewals	4.05	5
Policy Management	Overall	4.62	11

Lemonade outperforms for coverage, earning its top position through the broadest policy flexibility and the widest range of specialized add-ons available. Accident coverage starts the day you enroll with no waiting period and annual limit options stretch up to $100,000, making Lemonade a strong fit for dog owners who want maximum financial protection for their accident-prone small breeds. That said, behavioral treatment, physical therapy and dental illness coverage require purchasing separate add-ons.

Here's a closer look at Lemonade's coverage terms, waiting periods and add-on options for small dog insurance.


Annual limits	$5,000, $10,000, $20,000, $50,000, $100,000
Deductibles	$100, $250, $500, $750
Reimbursement rates	60%, 70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting periods	14 days for illnesses, 30 days for orthopedic conditions
Core coverages	All veterinary exams, diagnostics, surgery, hospitalization, outpatient treatments, emergency dental treatment, prescribed medications, prescribed pet food, costs for advertising and reward, lost pet due to theft or straying
Optional add-ons	Preventative care packages: Covers wellness exams, vaccines, routine diagnostics, spaying/neutering, heartworm/flea/tick prevention medication, plus more based on tier. Vet visit fees: Reimburses exam fees for eligible accidents or illnesses. Physical therapy: Provides coverage for rehabilitation, acupuncture, chiropractic care and hydrotherapy. Dental illness: Covers dental services like tooth extractions, root canals and gum disease treatment. Behavioral: Extends coverage to behavioral training and therapy for issues like anxiety or aggression. End-of-life: Provides reimbursement for vet-recommended euthanasia, cremation and memorial expenses.
Pre-existing condition terms	Non-chronic pre-existing conditions may be covered if cured and symptom-free for 12 months

Best Small Dog Insurance Customer Experience

Pumpkin

As our third pick for the best small dog insurance, Pumpkin delivers exceptional customer service without charging pet owners a high premium for it. Pumpkin's strength runs across the full policy lifecycle: buying, claims handling and policy management, making it the most consistently reliable option for small dog owners who want a smooth experience from enrollment through reimbursement.

Where Pumpkin performs best:

Small dog owners who file claims often and need fast, predictable reimbursements they can count on
Those who want affordable monthly premiums without giving up customer service quality at claim time

Where Pumpkin performs less competitively:

Fur parents whose top priority is the broadest possible coverage
Owners who need immediate accident coverage for their small dogs

Learn more: Pumpkin Pet Insurance Review

Pumpkin offers small dog insurance at an average rate of $32 per month, 33% lower than the national benchmark. For small dog owners who can't decide between service quality and a manageable monthly rate, Pumpkin delivers a strong combination of both. A multi-pet discount is also available, giving households with more than one small dog a straightforward way to reduce their total monthly cost.

Pumpkin excels in customer experience, with top ranks across buying, claims and policy management. The buying process is where it pulls furthest ahead: enrollment is clear and straightforward, pricing is transparent from the start and sales support ranks first among all providers, so small dog owners know exactly what they're getting before they commit. Admin support is the one area where Pumpkin slips relative to its otherwise top-tier performance, so owners who need frequent help with policy changes or coverage updates may find that specific experience less responsive than the rest.

See how Pumpkin performed across all customer experience categories in our small dog insurance analysis, including online reviews and direct testing by our team, in the table below.


Buying	Overall	4.95	1
Buying	Onboarding	4.96	1
Buying	Price Transparency	4.91	1
Buying	Sales Support	4.99	1
Claims	Appeals	5.00	2
Claims	Overall	4.95	1
Claims	Claims Fairness	5.00	2
Claims	Claims Speed	4.82	2
Claims	Submission Ease	4.98	1
Policy Management	Account Servicing	5.00	2
Policy Management	Admin Support	4.93	5
Policy Management	App UX	4.93	3
Policy Management	Billing & Renewals	4.56	1
Policy Management	Overall	4.86	1

Pumpkin's core inclusions are solid for small breed owners: cancer treatment, behavioral therapy and alternative therapy are all covered in the base plan, and the 14-day waiting period applies uniformly across accidents, illnesses and ligament or knee conditions, which is an advantage for small breeds like Miniature Dachshunds and Pomeranians where spinal and joint issues are common. However, small dog owners who want flexibility over deductibles, reimbursement rates and annual limits will find Pumpkin limiting compared to higher-ranked competitors.

Review Pumpkin's coverage terms and options for small dog insurance below.


Annual limits	$5,000, $10,000, $20,000, Unlimited
Deductibles	$100, $250, $500, $1,000
Reimbursement rates	80% or 90%
Waiting periods	14 days for accidents, illnesses and ligament or knee conditions
Core coverages	Surgery and hospitalization, cancer treatment, behavioral problems, veterinary treatments, IV fluids and medications, diagnostic imaging, prescription pet food, prescription medications, tooth extractions due to accident, alternative therapy, end of life expenses
Optional add-ons	Wellness Club: Provides coverage for wellness exams, vaccinations, fecal tests and spay/neuter procedures depending on the tier.
Pre-existing condition terms	Curable conditions may be eligible for coverage after 180 symptom-free days

Best Cheap Small Dog Insurance

ASPCA

In our analysis, ASPCA ranks second for affordability and fourth for coverage, giving budget-conscious small dog owners a policy that holds up on both fronts without requiring a significant compromise on either. Hereditary condition coverage comes standard in its base plan, which matters for small breed owners whose dogs carry genetic health risks, such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with heart conditions and Miniature Schnauzers with hyperlipidemia.

Where ASPCA performs best:

Pet parents who want affordable monthly premiums without sacrificing comprehensive financial protection
Owners of small breeds prone to hereditary conditions who need those risks covered in the base plan

Where ASPCA performs less competitively:

Small dog owners who expect a smooth, highly rated buying experience
Those who want the broadest add-on options or the most flexible policy customization beyond what the base plan provides

Learn more: ASPCA Pet Insurance Review

ASPCA is the second-cheapest small dog insurance company at $30 per month, offering 39% savings compared to the national average. For owners of small breeds where vet costs trend higher over time, including Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with cardiac care needs or French Bulldogs with respiratory conditions, keeping monthly premiums this low matters more the longer you hold the policy. That savings gap widens further for multi-pet households, as ASPCA offers a multi-pet discount that brings the per-dog monthly cost down across every additional pet you add.

ASPCA leads in affordability for small dog insurance in these states:
- Northeast: MA, MD, ME, NH, PA, RI
- Midwest: IA, KY, MN, ND
- South: NC, OR, VA, WV, WY, DC
- West: CA, CO, HI

Ranking 16th for customer experience, ASPCA's pain points are most visible in billing and renewals and app UX. Small dog owners who prefer managing their policy digitally or want a smooth, predictable renewal process are likely to find ASPCA frustrating to work with day-to-day. Claims fairness and claims speed are the relative bright spots, which means payouts tend to be handled reasonably once a claim is in.

Use the table below to see how ASPCA performed across every customer experience category in our small dog insurance analysis, including online reviews and direct testing by our team.


Buying	Overall	4.35	16
Buying	Onboarding	4.33	15
Buying	Price Transparency	4.22	16
Buying	Sales Support	4.50	13
Claims	Appeals	4.33	15
Claims	Overall	4.34	15
Claims	Claims Fairness	4.56	13
Claims	Claims Speed	4.26	13
Claims	Submission Ease	4.09	15
Policy Management	Account Servicing	4.78	15
Policy Management	Admin Support	4.53	14
Policy Management	App UX	4.13	18
Policy Management	Billing & Renewals	3.61	18
Policy Management	Overall	4.31	16

ASPCA's coverage features strong core inclusions and policy terms that hold up well against pricier competitors, with behavioral treatment, alternative therapy and prescription pet food all covered in the base plan. However, small dog owners who want the broadest possible add-on options or more flexible policy customization will find higher-ranked competitors better suited to those needs.

The table below provides a quick look at ASPCA's coverage terms, waiting periods and available options for small dog insurance.


Annual limits	$2,500, $3,000, $5,000, $7,000, $10,000, Unlimited
Deductibles	$100, $250, $500, $750
Reimbursement rates	70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting periods	14 days for accidents, illnesses and ligament or knee conditions
Core coverages	Veterinary treatments, surgery and hospitalization, diagnostic testing, IV fluids and medications, cancer treatments, behavioral problems, prescription medications, tooth extractions due to accident, alternative therapy, prescription pet food, end of life expenses
Optional add-ons	Wellness plans: Covers wellness exams, routine vaccines, dental cleaning, heartworm testing, deworming, spay/neuter procedures, urinalysis and health certificates based on the tier.
Pre-existing condition terms	Curable conditions may qualify for coverage after 180 symptom-free days

Best for Accident-Prone Small Dogs

Figo

Rounding out our top five recommendations, Figo is a strong option for small dogs like Jack Russell Terriers, Miniature Pinschers and Toy Fox Terriers where curiosity and energy translate directly into injury risk. Figo also offers a unique 100% reimbursement option, which means eligible claims can be covered in full.

Where Figo performs best:

Owners of high-energy small breeds like Jack Russell Terriers and Miniature Pinschers where the risk of accidents is present from the moment coverage starts
Pet parents who want a 100% reimbursement option

Where Figo performs less competitively:

Budget-conscious small dog owners who want the lowest possible rate
Owners who want alternative therapy or behavioral treatment included in the base plan without purchasing a separate add-on

Learn more: Figo Pet Insurance Review

Figo carries higher premiums than the other providers in our top five, but small dog owners can still save 23% compared to the national average at 37 per month. The value case rests less on price and more on what you get at that rate: a one-day accident waiting period and a 100% reimbursement option that no competing provider in our analysis matches. A multi-pet discount is also available for households insuring more than one dog, giving owners a practical way to offset the higher base rate across multiple pets.

Figo offers the cheapest small dog insurance the states below:
- Northeast: VT
- Midwest: WI

Based on our study, claims submission ease is Figo's clearest customer experience strength, a practical advantage for small dog owners who want the process of filing a claim to be as straightforward as possible after a vet visit. Claims speed also performs well, so once a claim is submitted, reimbursements arrive faster than with most competitors. However, claims appeals ranks last, so owners who need to dispute a claim decision may find that process more frustrating than with higher-rated competitors.

The table below breaks down how Figo performed across every customer experience category in our small dog insurance analysis, including online reviews and direct testing by our team.


Buying	Overall	4.38	15
Buying	Onboarding	4.80	8
Buying	Price Transparency	3.94	18
Buying	Sales Support	4.46	16
Claims	Appeals	4.08	18
Claims	Overall	4.43	13
Claims	Claims Fairness	4.28	17
Claims	Claims Speed	4.50	8
Claims	Submission Ease	4.94	3
Policy Management	Account Servicing	4.89	10
Policy Management	Admin Support	4.76	11
Policy Management	App UX	4.86	9
Policy Management	Billing & Renewals	3.80	13
Policy Management	Overall	4.59	12

Figo's fifth-place finish in our coverage ranking is due to a narrower base plan and fewer built-in inclusions as alternative care, rehabilitation, physical therapy and veterinary exam fees all require separate add-ons rather than coming standard. Where Figo's coverage terms work in small dog owners' favor is the one-day accident waiting period and the 100% reimbursement option: for breeds where accident risk is immediate and vet bills can run high, those two terms together offer a level of early financial protection that no other provider in our top five matches.

The table below covers Figo's full coverage terms, waiting periods and add-on options for small dog insurance.


Annual limits	$5,000, $10,000, Unlimited
Deductibles	$100, $250, $500, $750
Reimbursement rates	70%, 80%, 90%, 100%
Waiting periods	1 day for accidents, 14 days for illnesses, six months for orthopedic conditions
Core coverage	Accidents, genetic conditions, cancer, chronic conditions, diagnostic imaging, prescription medications, hospitalization, emergency pet ambulance, endodontic treatment for injuries
Optional add-ons	Wellness plans: Covers wellness exams, vaccines, spay/neuter or dental cleaning and testing. Veterinary exam fees: Provides reimbursement for vet exam fees for eligible conditions. Extra care pack: Reimburses the cost of advertising and reward for lost pets, boarding fees, vacation cancellation, third-party property damage liability and final respects (cremation/burial) services. Alternative care, rehabilitation and physical therapy riders: Covers behavioral consultations, alternative therapies, rehabilitation or physical therapy.
Pre-existing condition terms	Curable pre-existing conditions may be covered after 12 symptom-free months

Best Small Dog Insurance by Breed

Pumpkin offers the best small dog insurance for 24 breeds that include Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, Pugs and Shetland Sheepdogs. Pets Best follows with 11 small breed wins, covering well-known breeds like Beagles, Bichon Frises and Australian Terriers. Lemonade rounds out the top three, ranking first for eight small breeds that include Boston Terriers, Italian Greyhounds and Miniature Schnauzers.

Data filtered by:


American Eskimo	Pumpkin	2	1	11
American Hairless Terrier	Pumpkin	2	1	11
Australian Silky Terrier	Pets Best	1	14	2
Australian Terrier	Pets Best	1	14	2
Beagle	Pets Best	1	14	2
Bichon Frise	Pets Best	1	14	2
Border Terrier	Pets Best	1	14	2
Boston Terrier	Lemonade	2	11	1
Cairn Terrier	Pets Best	1	14	2
Cavachon	Pumpkin	2	1	11
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel	Pumpkin	2	1	11
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel	Lemonade	4	11	1
Cavapoo	Pumpkin	2	1	11
Coton De Tulear	Lemonade	2	11	1
Dachshund	Pumpkin	2	1	11
Fox Terrier	Pets Best	1	14	2
French Bulldog	Pumpkin	2	1	11
German Spitz	Pumpkin	2	1	11
Havanese	Pumpkin	2	1	11
Italian Greyhound	Lemonade	1	11	1
Jack Russell Terrier	Pumpkin	3	1	11
Japanese Spitz	Pumpkin	2	1	11
Lhasa Apso	Pumpkin	3	1	11
Miniature Bull Terrier	Lemonade	2	11	1
Miniature Poodle	Pumpkin	3	1	11
Miniature Schnauzer	Lemonade	3	11	1
Norfolk Terrier	Pets Best	1	14	2
Norwich Terrier	Pets Best	1	14	2
Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen	Pumpkin	3	1	11
Pug	Pumpkin	3	1	11
Pug	Lemonade	4	11	1
Pug	Pets Best	1	14	2
Puggle	Pumpkin	2	1	11
Scottish Terrier	Lemonade	4	11	1
Shetland Sheepdog	Pumpkin	2	1	11
Welsh Terrier	Pumpkin	2	1	11
West Highland White Terrier	Pumpkin	3	1	11
Wire Fox Terrier	Pumpkin	3	1	11

Use the resources below to find the best pet insurance for your small dog's particular breed.

Best Pet Insurance for Beagles

Best Pet Insurance for Bichon Frises

Best Pet Insurance for Border Terriers

Best Pet Insurance for Boston Terriers

Best Pet Insurance for British Bulldogs

Best Pet Insurance for Bull Terriers

Best Small Dog Insurance by State

At the state-level, Pets Best wins as the best pet insurance company for small dogs in 21 states, with wins from Alaska and Connecticut through Nevada and Wisconsin. Lemonade follows with 19 states, ranking first across a wide geographic spread that includes Alabama, Michigan, Texas and Washington. ASPCA takes third, leading in 10 states plus Washington, D.C., with its strongest showing in the West and Mid-Atlantic regions.

Data filtered by:


Alabama	Lemonade	4	11	1
Alaska	Pets Best	1	14	2
Arizona	Lemonade	2	11	1
Arkansas	Pets Best	1	14	2
Arkansas	Pumpkin	2	1	15
California	ASPCA	1	16	4
Colorado	ASPCA	1	16	4
Connecticut	Pets Best	1	14	2
Delaware	Lemonade	2	11	1
Florida	Pets Best	1	14	2
Georgia	Pets Best	1	14	2
Hawaii	Lemonade	4	11	1
Idaho	Pets Best	1	14	2
Illinois	Pets Best	1	14	2
Indiana	Pets Best	1	14	2
Iowa	Lemonade	2	11	1
Kansas	Pets Best	1	14	2
Kansas	Rainwalk	3	8	6
Kentucky	Pets Best	2	14	2
Louisiana	Pets Best	1	14	2
Maine	ASPCA	1	16	4
Maryland	ASPCA	1	16	4
Massachusetts	Lemonade	3	11	1
Michigan	Lemonade	1	11	1
Minnesota	Lemonade	2	11	1
Mississippi	Lemonade	1	11	1
Missouri	Lemonade	4	11	1
Montana	Lemonade	1	11	1
Nebraska	Pets Best	1	14	2
Nevada	Pets Best	1	14	2
New Hampshire	ASPCA	1	16	4
New Jersey	Pets Best	1	14	2
New Mexico	Lemonade	3	11	1
New York	Pets Best	1	14	2
North Carolina	Pets Best	2	14	2
North Dakota	Pets Best	2	14	2
Ohio	Lemonade	1	11	1
Oklahoma	Lemonade	2	11	1
Oregon	ASPCA	1	16	4
Pennsylvania	Lemonade	2	11	1
Rhode Island	Pets Best	2	14	2
South Carolina	Lemonade	1	11	1
South Dakota	Pets Best	1	14	2
Tennessee	Pets Best	1	14	2
Texas	Lemonade	2	11	1
Utah	Lemonade	1	11	1
Vermont	Figo	1	13	5
Vermont	Pets Best	2	14	2
Virginia	ASPCA	1	16	4
Washington	Lemonade	1	11	1
Washington D.C.	ASPCA	1	16	4
West Virginia	ASPCA	1	16	4
Wisconsin	Pets Best	2	14	2
Wyoming	ASPCA	1	16	4

Explore small dog insurance recommendations based on where you live using the state-level resources below.

Best Pet Insurance in Alabama (AL)

Best Pet Insurance in Alaska (AK)

Best Pet Insurance in Arizona (AZ)

Best Pet Insurance in Arkansas (AR)

Best Pet Insurance in California (CA)

Best Pet Insurance in Colorado (CO)

What Determines the Best Small Dog Insurance for You

The best small dog insurance is different for every owner. Your pet's breed, size and health history all influence which provider and policy terms will hold up when your small dog needs care.

Coverage for dog-specific risks

Small breeds come with a distinct set of health risks that large dog policies aren't built around. Dental disease is one of the most common and expensive conditions in small breeds, showing up earlier in Chihuahuas, Miniature Schnauzers and Toy Poodles than most owners expect. Luxating patella affects a wide range of small breeds, while brachycephalic dogs like Pugs and French Bulldogs deal with breathing complications that drive repeat vet visits throughout their lives.

A policy worth buying for a small dog should include:

Hereditary and congenital conditions in the base plan
Orthopedic waiting periods short enough to provide real financial protection before problems develop
Dental illness coverage included or available as an add-on, given how early small breeds develop periodontal disease

Affordable pricing

Monthly premiums are only part of the cost picture. Small breeds live longer than large ones, with many reaching 14 to 16 years, so rate increases and post-claim adjustments accumulate over a longer timeline than most owners plan for. Comparing how rates change with age matters just as much as comparing starting prices.

Reliable customer service

An insurer's real quality shows at claim time, not at sign-up. The providers that consistently earn high marks deliver on:

A claims process that's straightforward to complete without excessive back-and-forth
Reimbursements that arrive quickly and match what the policy covers
Customer service agents who answer coverage questions directly
Easy policy adjustments as your small dog moves through different life stages

How to Choose the Best Small Dog Insurance

Choosing the best small dog insurance starts with knowing what your dog needs before you compare quotes. Use these steps to build a shortlist you can feel good about when your small dog needs veterinary care.

1
Know your small dog's breed, health history and life stage
Your dog's breed and medical background determine which coverage features carry the most weight. A Pug's airway complications demand different policy priorities than a Dachshund's spinal risks, and a newly adopted Bichon Frise puppy needs a different plan than a ten-year-old Miniature Schnauzer managing a chronic condition.

Ask yourself:
- Does your dog's breed have documented hereditary conditions? The American Kennel Club has breed health guides that are a useful starting point for identifying what your small dog may develop down the road.
- What life stage is my dog in? Small dogs under 12 months are most exposed to accidents and ingestion injuries, while those aged seven and older carry growing risks for dental disease, joint problems and heart conditions common in small breeds.
- What's in your dog's vet records? Review past visit notes carefully as conditions mentioned even once can be flagged as pre-existing by insurers, which limits what gets covered under a new policy.
2
Decide what matters most to you
Settling on your top priorities before you shop makes tradeoffs easier to evaluate. If you're unsure where to start, lean toward coverage first; procedures like luxating patella surgery, brachycephalic airway correction and dental extractions carry costs that basic policies often won't cover in full.

Match your priorities to your situation:
- Comprehensive coverage + affordable pricing: A strong fit for mixed-breed small dog owners without major hereditary concerns who want broad financial protection at a manageable monthly cost.
- Comprehensive coverage + reliable customer service: The better choice for purebred small dog owners and first-time buyers who want both strong coverage and a claims experience that's low-stress when something goes wrong.
- Affordable pricing + reliable customer service: Works well for healthy small dogs with uncomplicated coverage needs, where keeping costs down and filing claims without friction matter more than maximum coverage depth.
3
Look into small dog insurance providers
Search for insurers with strong track records for small breed coverage in your state. Check customer satisfaction scores, financial strength ratings and how providers handle claims before adding anyone to your shortlist. Strong performance across all three categories is a better indicator of long-term reliability than a competitive starting premium alone.
4
Read the sample policies
Sample policies are publicly available from every major pet insurer. The terms that will most affect your small dog's coverage are discussed in those documents. Before committing, use Ctrl + F to quickly search for these terms:
- Pre-existing condition: How broadly is this defined? Some insurers exclude any condition noted in your dog's records, even a passing reference, which can create unexpected gaps later.
- Waiting period: Accident, illness and orthopedic waiting periods are often different. For small breeds with elevated accident risk, the accident wait is the figure that matters most.
- Hereditary/Congenital: Confirms whether breed-specific conditions are covered before a formal diagnosis is made, and whether that coverage is standard or requires a paid add-on.
- Dental illness: Small breeds develop periodontal disease earlier than large dogs. Verify whether dental illness is part of the base plan or covered through an optional add-on.
- Exclusions: Spells out exactly what won't be covered, which is critical reading for spotting gaps that relate directly to your small dog's breed or health background.
- Claims: Outlines the filing process, required documentation, submission deadlines and whether direct vet payment is an option.
5
Compare your shortlist using three main priorities
Compare your final candidates on the same terms across the board. Coverage inclusions, waiting periods, annual limits and hereditary condition language belong in that comparison alongside premiums, deductibles and reimbursement rates.

Pay attention to claims turnaround times and support quality too, as those details become the most important ones when your small dog needs care quickly.
6
Collect quotes
Get quotes from each provider on your shortlist using your small dog's breed, age and ZIP code. Use the same the deductible, reimbursement rate and annual limit across every quote; otherwise you're comparing different levels of coverage, not actual price differences.

Best Small Dog Insurance: Bottom Line

Small dog owners have unique coverage needs, and the right insurer depends on your dog's specific profile and your priorities. Our analysis found that Pumpkin, Pets Best and Lemonade are the best pet insurance companies for small dogs, but each one's value differs across affordability, coverage and customer experience. Matching these factors to your dog's actual health profile gives you a much better chance of avoiding gaps when a vet bill arrives.

Best Pet Insurance for Small Dogs: Next Steps

Ready to move forward? Confirm that your top choices deliver on price, customer service and coverage for your small dog's specific breed and health profile. Compare quotes using your dog's breed, age and location, and use identical coverage levels across every provider so you're seeing real price differences.

If cost is your primary concern

Small dog insurance pricing shifts more than most owners expect once breed, age and location enter the equation. A Pug owner in California will see very different numbers than a Beagle owner in Tennessee, even at the same coverage level.

Review the factors that affect small dog insurance costs most, including how your dog's breed and age affect what you'll pay over a long lifespan
Compare the most affordable small dog insurance providers using identical coverage levels
Check whether discounts apply to your situation, including multi-pet savings if you insure more than one dog

If you're still figuring out the right coverage level

Too little coverage leaves you writing large checks at the vet for conditions common in small breeds. Too much means paying monthly for financial protection your dog is unlikely to need.

Choose an annual limit that matches the health scenarios most relevant to your small dog's breed
Consider your dog's breed when choosing a deductible and reimbursement rate; a French Bulldog owner and a Jack Russell Terrier owner rarely need the same policy structure
Find out whether hereditary condition coverage comes standard or requires a paid add-on for each provider you're considering

If you're ready to get quotes

Actual pricing tied to your small dog's breed, age and health history often looks different from the estimates you'll see on comparison pages.

Use your dog's breed, age and location when requesting quotes to get accurate figures
Collect quotes from at least three providers with the same deductibles, reimbursement rates and annual limits

How We Chose the Best Small Dog Insurance Companies

We analyzed 18 major pet insurers to identify the best small dog insurance companies that balance affordable pricing, reliable customer service and comprehensive coverage for dog-specific health risks.

Data Analysis and Scope

Our analysis is based on standardized small dog profiles representing common coverage needs:

Providers analyzed: 18 major pet insurers
Dog profiles analyzed: Over 67,000
Weight category: 25 pounds and under
Geography: All U.S. states and Washington, D.C.
Breeds covered: Mixed breeds and purebreds
Policy baseline: $500 deductible, $5,000 annual limit, 80% reimbursement rate

Our Scoring Model

Each insurer received a composite score based on the weighted categories below:

Affordability (50% of overall score): We measured how competitively an insurer prices small dog coverage compared to competitors for a $5,000 annual limit, $500 deductible and 80% reimbursement policy across different breeds and states.
Customer experience (30% of overall score): We evaluated how well insurers support small dog owners throughout the policy lifecycle from purchase to claims. We measured performance across buying (30%), policy management (30%) and claims experiences (40%), with detailed subscores within each category.
Coverage options and terms (20% of overall score): We analyzed each insurer's coverage options, including core coverage inclusions (30%), policy flexibility and customization options (25%), policy terms and conditions (23%) and specialized coverage for breed-specific and small dog health risks (22%).

Read our full pet insurance methodology.

About Ritchel Mendiola

Ritchel Mendiola is a Content Writer at MoneyGeek specializing in pet insurance. With a journalism background and over three years of experience in personal finance writing, she brings a reporter's approach to coverage, digging into the details that actually matter when you're trying to protect your furry friends without overpaying.

Ritchel focuses on the policy terms that actually matter when your pet needs care: waiting periods that could delay coverage right when you need it, exclusions that might catch you off guard at the vet, reimbursement levels that determine your real costs, and claim scenarios that reveal how policies hold up in practice. She digs into what providers offer, checks their track records and pricing, then turns it into clear comparisons that help you decide.

Whether you're shopping for your first pet insurance policy or switching providers, Ritchel does the research for you and breaks down your options so you can protect your furry family members, without breaking the bank.

Read Full Bio »

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