The best pet insurance company for German Shepherds is AKC due to its balance of affordable rates, a great customer service reputation and a wide selection of coverages. Also, consider Lemonade, Pets Best, Rainwalk and Spot for coverage for your German Shepherd.
German Shepherd Insurance
Updated: August 25, 2025
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Key Takeaways
AKC is the best pet insurance company for German Shepherds, offering the best balance of affordability, customer service and coverage.
Pumpkin offers the cheapest pet insurance rates for German Shepherds, with average rates of around $39 monthly for standard protection.
German Shepherds are the 62nd most expensive dog breed to insure, with an average pet insurance cost of $119 per month or around $1,422 per year.
Best German Shepherd Pet Insurance Companies
| AKC | 4.25 | $59 | 3 | 1 |
| Lemonade | 4.15 | $41 | 3 | 6 |
| Pets Best | 4.15 | $42 | 5 | 2 |
| Rainwalk | 4.15 | $61 | 1 | 4 |
| Spot | 3.90 | $57 | 2 | 8 |
*Pet insurance coverage varies by state and provider. Rates shown are estimates; actual costs vary based on your pet's age, health and location. Coverage exclusions and waiting periods apply. Consult individual providers for specific terms.
AKC
Best for German Shepherds
MoneyGeek Rating
4.3/ of 5
3.9/5Affordability
4.4/5Customer Experience
5/5Coverage Options
Average Monthly Rate
$59Overall Sentiment
86% positiveMaximum Annual Limit
$10,000Most Unique Coverage Inclusion or Add-on
Covers pre-existing conditions
Best German Shepherd Pet Insurance by State
Even by state, AKC still wins the vast majority of states, 46 out of 50. Rainwalk is the best provider in Illinois, Michigan, Utah and Virginia.
| Alabama | AKC | 4.25 |
| Alaska | AKC | 4.25 |
| Arizona | AKC | 4.25 |
| Arkansas | AKC | 4.35 |
| California | AKC | 4.30 |
| Colorado | AKC | 4.30 |
| Connecticut | AKC | 4.30 |
| Delaware | AKC | 4.25 |
| Florida | AKC | 4.30 |
| Georgia | AKC | 4.25 |
| Hawaii | AKC | 4.30 |
| Idaho | AKC | 4.25 |
| Illinois | AKC | 4.25 |
| Illinois | Rainwalk | 4.25 |
| Indiana | AKC | 4.30 |
| Iowa | AKC | 4.25 |
| Kansas | AKC | 4.25 |
| Kentucky | AKC | 4.35 |
| Louisiana | AKC | 4.25 |
| Maine | AKC | 4.25 |
| Maryland | AKC | 4.25 |
| Massachusetts | AKC | 4.25 |
| Michigan | Rainwalk | 4.20 |
| Minnesota | AKC | 4.25 |
| Mississippi | AKC | 4.30 |
| Missouri | AKC | 4.25 |
| Montana | AKC | 4.30 |
| Nebraska | AKC | 4.25 |
| Nevada | AKC | 4.25 |
| New Hampshire | AKC | 4.25 |
| New Jersey | AKC | 4.25 |
| New Mexico | AKC | 4.35 |
| New York | AKC | 4.30 |
| North Carolina | AKC | 4.25 |
| North Dakota | AKC | 4.35 |
| Ohio | AKC | 4.25 |
| Oklahoma | AKC | 4.35 |
| Oregon | AKC | 4.30 |
| Pennsylvania | AKC | 4.30 |
| Rhode Island | AKC | 4.30 |
| South Carolina | AKC | 4.30 |
| South Dakota | AKC | 4.35 |
| Tennessee | AKC | 4.25 |
| Texas | AKC | 4.30 |
| Utah | AKC | 4.20 |
| Utah | Rainwalk | 4.20 |
| Vermont | AKC | 4.30 |
| Virginia | AKC | 4.20 |
| Virginia | Rainwalk | 4.20 |
| Washington | AKC | 4.40 |
| West Virginia | AKC | 4.30 |
| Wisconsin | AKC | 4.20 |
| Wyoming | AKC | 4.30 |
*Rates are based on a 6-year-old German Shepherd with a $5,000 annual limit, $500 deductible and 80% reimbursement. Your rates will differ based on your pet's specific profile and location.
Cheapest German Shepherd Pet Insurance Companies
Pumpkin has the cheapest pet insurance rates for German Shepherds, starting at $26 monthly for basic coverage. For our standard comparison profile (6-year-old German Shepherd, $5,000 annual limit, $500 deductible, 80% reimbursement), Pumpkin averages $39 per month or $464 per year. We also recommend Lemonade, Pets Best, ASPCA and Figo for affordable coverage.
| Pumpkin | $39 | $464 | 29% |
| Lemonade | $41 | $491 | 25% |
| Pets Best | $42 | $507 | 23% |
| ASPCA | $48 | $571 | 13% |
| Figo | $52 | $626 | 5% |
*Rates are based on a 6-year-old German Shepherd with a $5,000 annual limit, $500 deductible and 80% reimbursement. Your rates will differ based on your pet's specific profile and location.
Pumpkin
Cheapest Pet Insurance for German Shepherds
MoneyGeek Rating
3.9/ of 5
4.4/5Affordability
4.4/5Customer Experience
1.7/5Coverage Options
Average Monthly Rate
$39Overall Customer Sentiment
79% positiveMaximum Annual Limit
UnlimitedMost Unique Coverage Inclusion or Add-on
Routine wellness coverage
Cheapest German Shepherd Pet Insurance by State
Pumpkin is the cheapest pet insurance provider for German Shepherds in all states. Its rates range from $29 to $51 per month on average, depending on where you live.
| Alabama | Pumpkin | $29 | 33% |
| Alaska | Pumpkin | $38 | 30% |
| Arizona | Pumpkin | $48 | 27% |
| Arkansas | Pumpkin | $26 | 33% |
| California | Pumpkin | $50 | 24% |
| Colorado | Pumpkin | $49 | 28% |
| Connecticut | Pumpkin | $45 | 28% |
| Delaware | Pumpkin | $39 | 30% |
| Florida | Pumpkin | $44 | 29% |
| Georgia | Pumpkin | $35 | 28% |
| Hawaii | Pumpkin | $40 | 31% |
| Idaho | Pumpkin | $39 | 29% |
| Illinois | Pumpkin | $49 | 27% |
| Indiana | Pumpkin | $35 | 28% |
| Iowa | Pumpkin | $33 | 31% |
| Kansas | Pumpkin | $36 | 30% |
| Kentucky | Pumpkin | $31 | 33% |
| Louisiana | Pumpkin | $32 | 31% |
| Maine | Pumpkin | $48 | 29% |
| Maryland | Pumpkin | $38 | 35% |
| Massachusetts | Pumpkin | $51 | 28% |
| Michigan | Pumpkin | $39 | 29% |
| Minnesota | Pumpkin | $41 | 28% |
| Mississippi | Pumpkin | $33 | 31% |
| Missouri | Pumpkin | $31 | 31% |
| Montana | Pumpkin | $33 | 30% |
| Nebraska | Pumpkin | $35 | 30% |
| Nevada | Pumpkin | $41 | 28% |
| New Hampshire | Pumpkin | $46 | 28% |
| New Jersey | Pumpkin | $44 | 28% |
| New Mexico | Pumpkin | $35 | 30% |
| New York | Pumpkin | $43 | 28% |
| North Carolina | Pumpkin | $35 | 31% |
| North Dakota | Pumpkin | $30 | 30% |
| Ohio | Pumpkin | $36 | 31% |
| Oklahoma | Pumpkin | $33 | 30% |
| Oregon | Pumpkin | $49 | 27% |
| Pennsylvania | Pumpkin | $41 | 30% |
| Rhode Island | Pumpkin | $34 | 30% |
| South Carolina | Pumpkin | $37 | 28% |
| South Dakota | Pumpkin | $35 | 31% |
| Tennessee | Pumpkin | $36 | 29% |
| Texas | Pumpkin | $42 | 27% |
| Utah | Pumpkin | $37 | 30% |
| Vermont | Pumpkin | $37 | 30% |
| Virginia | Pumpkin | $42 | 31% |
| Washington | Pumpkin | $45 | 31% |
| West Virginia | Pumpkin | $34 | 29% |
| Wisconsin | Pumpkin | $42 | 31% |
| Wyoming | Pumpkin | $36 | 29% |
*Rates are based on a 6-year-old German Shepherd with a $5,000 annual limit, $500 deductible and 80% reimbursement. Your rates will differ based on your pet's specific profile and location.
How Much Does German Shepherd Insurance Cost?
Depending on your state, pet insurance costs for German Shepherds range from $81 to $154 per month, making them the 62nd most expensive dog breed to insure. However, this represents an average across all coverage types available on the market, so your pricing will vary based on your dog and preferred coverage level.
| Alabama | $90 | $1,074 | -24% |
| Alaska | $117 | $1,406 | -1% |
| Arizona | $142 | $1,697 | 19% |
| Arkansas | $81 | $965 | -32% |
| California | $147 | $1,763 | 24% |
| Colorado | $149 | $1,782 | 25% |
| Connecticut | $136 | $1,627 | 14% |
| Delaware | $120 | $1,442 | 1% |
| Florida | $135 | $1,620 | 14% |
| Georgia | $106 | $1,265 | -11% |
| Hawaii | $121 | $1,454 | 2% |
| Idaho | $118 | $1,420 | -0% |
| Illinois | $145 | $1,743 | 23% |
| Indiana | $107 | $1,285 | -10% |
| Iowa | $98 | $1,179 | -17% |
| Kansas | $108 | $1,294 | -9% |
| Kentucky | $95 | $1,139 | -20% |
| Louisiana | $96 | $1,150 | -19% |
| Maine | $143 | $1,717 | 21% |
| Maryland | $124 | $1,487 | 5% |
| Massachusetts | $154 | $1,845 | 30% |
| Michigan | $120 | $1,432 | 1% |
| Minnesota | $122 | $1,458 | 3% |
| Mississippi | $102 | $1,226 | -14% |
| Missouri | $94 | $1,128 | -21% |
| Montana | $101 | $1,208 | -15% |
| Nebraska | $107 | $1,276 | -10% |
| Nevada | $121 | $1,451 | 2% |
| New Hampshire | $136 | $1,634 | 15% |
| New Jersey | $133 | $1,592 | 12% |
| New Mexico | $105 | $1,253 | -12% |
| New York | $130 | $1,556 | 9% |
| North Carolina | $108 | $1,289 | -9% |
| North Dakota | $92 | $1,099 | -23% |
| Ohio | $111 | $1,325 | -7% |
| Oklahoma | $100 | $1,192 | -16% |
| Oregon | $148 | $1,767 | 24% |
| Pennsylvania | $125 | $1,496 | 5% |
| Rhode Island | $105 | $1,258 | -12% |
| South Carolina | $114 | $1,365 | -4% |
| South Dakota | $107 | $1,277 | -10% |
| Tennessee | $110 | $1,312 | -8% |
| Texas | $123 | $1,468 | 3% |
| Utah | $115 | $1,380 | -3% |
| Vermont | $111 | $1,325 | -7% |
| Virginia | $130 | $1,554 | 9% |
| Washington | $138 | $1,647 | 16% |
| West Virginia | $102 | $1,222 | -14% |
| Wisconsin | $128 | $1,535 | 8% |
| Wyoming | $109 | $1,308 | -8% |
*The rates include all coverage selections on the market for a 6-year-old German Shepherd. Your rates will differ based on your pet's specific profile and location.”
What Factors Affect German Shepherd Insurance Costs?
German Shepherds rank as the 62nd most expensive dog breed to insure, and several breed-specific factors drive these higher rates. Here's why German Shepherds cost more to insure (and what you can do about it):
Health Predispositions
Potential Vet Costs: $1,500 to $19,200
As a German Shepherd owner, you may already know these magnificent dogs can face certain breed-specific health challenges. German Shepherds are prone to several serious genetic conditions that insurers consider high-risk, which is why you should understand your coverage options.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are extremely common, requiring expensive surgery. They're also susceptible to a progressive spinal condition (degenerative myelopathy), bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) and various heart conditions. Their predisposition to certain cancers and autoimmune disorders also drives up costs.
Size-Related Factors
Potential Vet Cost Increase: 20% to 50% higher vet costs
As large dogs, German Shepherds require higher medication dosages, larger surgical equipment and more anesthesia during procedures. Their size also makes them more prone to joint problems and orthopedic injuries. Recovery times are longer, and they may need specialized equipment like larger crates or lifting harnesses during treatment.
Lifespan Considerations
Annual Vet Costs By Age: $500 to $1,500 (Young) to $2,000 to $8,000+ (Senior)
With a typical lifespan of 9 to 13 years, German Shepherds live relatively shorter than smaller breeds. This shorter lifespan means health problems develop earlier and progress more rapidly, leading to higher claim frequencies during their senior years.
Behavioral and Activity Risks
Potential Vet Costs: $800 to $3,000
German Shepherds are active, working dogs with high energy levels. Their athleticism increases the risk of exercise-related injuries, torn ligaments and fractures. In some situations, their protective instincts and size also create higher liability risks, though this affects coverage options more than premiums.
Breeding-Related Issues
Potential Vet Costs: $400 to $2,000
Poor breeding practices have made certain genetic conditions more prevalent in the German Shepherd breed population, making insurers more cautious about coverage and pricing.
While German Shepherds may be predisposed to specific health conditions, individual dogs vary greatly. Pet insurance decisions should be based on your pet's needs and your financial situation. Consult with your veterinarian about your German Shepherd's health risks.
INSURANCE RISK PREVENTION
You can lower your German Shepherd's health risks with the right approach. Start with proper diet and exercise to keep your dog at an ideal weight. When choosing a puppy, health-tested breeding lines matter. Preventive gastropexy surgery is a smart move for bloat prevention. After meals, keep your German Shepherd calm — no running around. Regular vet checkups catch joint and spinal issues before they become expensive problems.
How to Get the Best Cheap German Shepherd Pet Insurance
Getting affordable German Shepherd insurance requires some homework. Follow these steps:
- 1
Decide on coverage needs before buying
Before getting a policy for your German Shepherd, decide whether coverage is a good idea and, if so, how much is appropriate. If you want coverage, understand risks specific to your dog's breed and how much illnesses and accidents cost. We also have a pet insurance coverage guide to help you start researching.
- 2
Research costs and providers
Understanding average costs for the specific coverage you want for your pet helps you create a baseline to understand how much you can save with different providers. Researching provider options and customer experiences also gives you a balanced perspective before getting quotes.
- 3
Before signing, read the fine print
Just because you buy coverage doesn't mean it works immediately; often, there's a waiting period before covered events can be reimbursed. Look at other terms and conditions to thoroughly understand each policy. Many offer sample plans online by state, which are easy to access.
- 4
Compare multiple quotes online
Every pet insurance provider in the U.S. offers quotes and an entirely online buying process, often under 2 minutes. So get as many quotes as possible to get the best deal.
- 5
Reassess every year before renewing
Pet insurance rates fluctuate over time, so search and repeat this process to ensure you get a good deal at every stage of your dog's life.
German Shepherd Dog Insurance: Bottom Line
AKC and Pumpkin are the best and cheapest pet insurance companies, respectively, for German Shepherds. Still, compare them with our other provider recommendations and thoroughly research them to make the best decision for your German Shepherd's unique needs. The right pet insurance can provide peace of mind and ensure your loyal companion gets the care they deserve when health issues arise.
Pet Insurance for German Shepherd: FAQ
Below are our expert answers to frequently asked questions about German Shepherd insurance:
Who is the best pet insurance provider overall?
AKC is the best pet insurance provider, primarily due to its excellent customer service and coverage for preexisting conditions. While it's more expensive than the national average, it may be well worth it to cover what most insurers won't for your dog.
Who offers the cheapest pet insurance for German Shepherds?
Pumpkin offers the lowest pet insurance rates for German Shepherds, starting at $26 monthly for basic coverage. For standard coverage levels, expect to pay around $39 monthly.
How much does German Shepherd insurance cost?
German Shepherds are the 62nd most expensive dog breed to insure, with an average pet insurance cost of $119 per month. However, this varies widely by state, with monthly pricing ranging from $81 to $154.
What are the most common accident and illness risks for German Shepherds?
The three most common risks for German Shepherds are hip and elbow dysplasia (joint malformation causing arthritis and mobility issues), bloat (a life-threatening stomach-twisting emergency) and degenerative myelopathy (progressive spinal cord disease leading to hind leg weakness and paralysis). Due to the German Shepherd's size and body structure, these conditions are largely genetic and breed-specific.
How We Found the Best and Cheapest German Shepherd Insurance
We analyzed pricing for all coverage levels, breeds and ages within all 50 states to find the best and cheapest pet insurance for German Shepherds. We also researched clinical vet statistics for the breed, customer satisfaction for all companies and coverage contract details to tailor our suggestions specifically for German Shepherds.
How We Determined Costs
All costs presented in this article for providers were modeled after the following base profile:
- 6-year-old German Shepherd
- $5,000 annual limit
- $500 deductible
- 80% reimbursement
Average costs provided were based on aggregated pricing for the breed for all coverage selections and all ages insured on the market within reasonable life expectancy limits.
How We Rated Each Provider
We analyzed online sources for comprehensive ratings based on the following basic metrics:
- Affordability (50% of score): This score aggregates ratings based on the relative affordability compared to competition for all profiles and all factor combinations. We also factored in discounts as a minor component to the rating, as there's only slight variation between companies.
- Customer Experience (30% of score): We used ratings derived from a general sentiment rating aggregated from all internet sources, determining positive, neutral and negative sentiment proportions for each company to get this score. More positive sentiment means a higher rating.
- Coverage (20% of score): We read all contract details for every provider in every state, considering add-on options, inclusions, exclusions and restrictions to derive this score. Pet insurance regulations vary widely by state, and coverage options may differ based on your location.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!
Passionate about economics and insurance, he aims to promote transparency in financial topics and empower others to make confident money decisions.