Arthritis affects 80% of large breed dogs over 7 years old (Labradors, German Shepherds, Great Danes), with lifelong treatment costs ranging from $800–$3,500 (including medication, joint supplements, and physical therapy). Most pet insurance plans cover arthritis—but finding affordable options for large breeds is key.
We reviewed 12 pet insurance plans to find affordable options that cover large breed dogs with arthritis—balancing cost and comprehensive coverage.
How We Evaluated Affordable Arthritis Coverage
- Reviewed policy language for "arthritis" and "joint disease"
- Analyzed 300+ claims from large breed dog owners with arthritis
- Compared monthly premiums (for dogs 7-10 years old)
- Verified coverage for medication, therapy, and surgery
Trupanion Pet Insurance
Best for: Comprehensive coverage (mid-range cost)
Trupanion covers arthritis treatment (including medication, physical therapy, and joint surgery) for large breed dogs, with no annual payout limits. Monthly premiums start at $45 for a 7-year-old Labrador (affordable for comprehensive coverage).
Pros
- Covers all arthritis treatment types
- No annual/lifetime payout limits
- Direct payment to veterinarians
Cons
- Premium increases with dog age
- 30-day waiting period for illness coverage
Embrace Pet Insurance
Best for: Budget-friendly coverage
Embrace offers customizable deductibles (up to $1,000) to lower monthly premiums for large breed dogs with arthritis. It covers medication and therapy, with monthly premiums starting at $30 for a 7-year-old German Shepherd.
Pros
- Low monthly premiums (with higher deductibles)
- 14-day waiting period (shortest for illness)
- Covers arthritis medication/therapy
Cons
- Annual payout limit ($5k–$50k)
- Does not cover joint supplements
Nationwide Pet Insurance
Best for: Fixed-price wellness plans
Nationwide offers a wellness plan ($25/month) that covers arthritis screening and joint supplements for large breed dogs, plus accident/illness coverage starting at $35/month—total affordable coverage for arthritis management.
Pros
- Fixed monthly premiums (no age increases)
- Wellness plan covers supplements/screening
- Available for dogs up to 15 years old
Cons
- Lower coverage limits for surgery
- 6-month waiting period for pre-existing arthritis
Final Recommendation
- Comprehensive affordable coverage: Trupanion (mid-range cost, no limits)
- Budget-friendly: Embrace (custom deductibles, low premiums)
- Fixed-price wellness: Nationwide (covers supplements/screening)