Dog insurance is problematic. It depends on the breed and if it has a known history of medical problems. Some breeds are healthier than others. The quality of food one gives their pet; some foods are much more healthier than others (do your research). How you care for your beloved pet. Exposure to dangerous elements indoors & out. That said, my personal opinion about animal insurance is that some companies are rip-offs; some okay, but most companies charge exorbitant fees when the animal gets older. They start reasonably when the animal is young, then as the pet gets older, rates start climbing until an older pet the rates are doubled when started. Example: my insurance started out about $400 a year which included 80% payment of many items, but at about 10 years of age the premium doubled and I had extreamly little uses for it other than normal office visits. (had to drop it ~ too ecxpensive) Luckly I had a very healthy girl. My other girl, I don't carry insurance, i pay out of pocket and its less than premiums ~ thank goodness I have another very healthy girl. BUT, if your pet is of the sickly nature background or is accident prone, then I'd suggest insurance. Remember: all insurance companies & what they do & do not cover vary (sometimes greatly) so do your homework if you decide to get insurance. It's a jungle out there & every 2/3 years check out the other companies just like car or home insurance. Oh, pre-existing problems are not covered so switching can be a huge problem. Pet insurance companies need much more regulation ~ it ain't like human health insurance.