Finding pet insurance for dogs with pre-existing conditions can be a challenge. Most traditional pet insurance companies exclude coverage for any condition your dog had before the policy started. However, there are a few insurers that offer limited options or alternative solutions for pet parents managing chronic or recurring health issues.
In this 2025 guide, we explore which companies offer the best pet insurance for dogs with pre-existing conditions, what kinds of conditions may still be eligible, and how to get the best protection for your furry friend.
What Are Pre-Existing Conditions in Dogs?
A pre-existing condition refers to any illness, injury, or symptom that your dog had before your pet insurance policy started or during the policy waiting period.
Common pre-existing conditions include:
- Allergies
- Hip dysplasia
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Cancer
- Skin infections
- Chronic ear infections
- Arthritis
Most pet insurance companies will not cover treatment, medication, or testing related to these conditions if they existed prior to enrollment.
Can Dogs With Pre-Existing Conditions Get Pet Insurance?
Yes — but with limitations.
While no pet insurer fully covers chronic, ongoing pre-existing conditions, some companies offer:
- Coverage for “curable” conditions (e.g., ear infections, UTIs, GI issues) if your dog has been symptom-free for 6–12 months.
- Preventive care and wellness plans to offset vet bills even if medical conditions aren’t covered.
- Accident-only coverage to protect against new emergencies unrelated to the pre-existing issue.
- Alternative discount programs like Pet Assure or Pawp that aren’t technically insurance but can help reduce costs.
Best Pet Insurance Companies for Dogs with Pre-Existing Conditions (2025)
| Company | Covers Curable Conditions? | Offers Wellness Plan? | Alternative Coverage? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASPCA | Yes, after 180 symptom-free days | Yes | No | Moderate-cost, curable issues |
| Embrace | Yes, after 12 months symptom-free | Yes | No | Best for curable conditions |
| Spot | Yes, after 180 days | Yes | No | Flexible coverage options |
| Pawp | No (not traditional insurance) | No | Yes (emergency fund) | Immediate help for one emergency |
| Pet Assure | N/A (discount program) | No | Yes | Unlimited vet discount access |
1. Embrace Pet Insurance
Embrace is widely considered one of the most pre-existing-condition-friendly providers.
Key Features:
- Covers curable conditions after 12 months symptom-free.
- Offers wellness rewards for routine care.
- No upper age limits for enrollment.
- Flexible deductibles and reimbursement levels.
What’s Covered:
- Accidents and illnesses
- Genetic and chronic conditions (if not pre-existing)
- Rehab and alternative therapies
- Exam fees and diagnostics
What’s Not Covered:
- Pre-existing conditions (unless curable)
- Cosmetic procedures
- Breeding-related issues
Why it’s great:
Embrace offers the longest “waiting” period for curable pre-existing conditions, which can be a game-changer for dogs with past but resolved issues.
2. ASPCA Pet Health Insurance
Backed by Crum & Forster, ASPCA Pet Insurance is known for accessible pricing and curable condition coverage.
Key Features:
- Covers curable conditions after 180 days without symptoms.
- Optional preventive care plan.
- No network restrictions.
Why it’s great:
ASPCA is one of the few insurers to clearly define and cover curable pre-existing conditions in writing, which provides peace of mind to pet parents.
3. Spot Pet Insurance
Spot offers policies underwritten by the same provider as ASPCA but with more flexible plan customization and a strong focus on customer service.
Key Features:
- Covers curable conditions after 180 days.
- 24/7 telehealth access included.
- Customizable deductible, reimbursement, and annual limits.
Why it’s great:
Spot is ideal for pet owners who want tele-vet support and tailored policies with clear curable condition coverage.
4. Pawp
Unlike traditional pet insurance, Pawp is an emergency vet fund subscription service.
Key Features:
- $24/month covers up to 6 pets in one household.
- Up to $3,000 per year for one life-threatening emergency.
- No restrictions on breed, age, or pre-existing conditions.
Why it’s great:
Pawp doesn’t exclude pre-existing conditions for emergency treatment — which could be life-saving for dogs already dealing with medical issues.
5. Pet Assure
Pet Assure is a veterinary discount plan, not insurance, but it can reduce costs for any pre-existing condition at participating vets.
Key Features:
- 25% off all in-house vet services.
- No exclusions for age, breed, or conditions.
- Can be combined with insurance for more coverage.
Why it’s great:
If your dog is uninsurable due to a major pre-existing condition, Pet Assure can still help lower out-of-pocket expenses on routine and illness-related care.
What Is Considered a “Curable” Pre-Existing Condition?
Most insurers that offer curable condition coverage will cover conditions like:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Ear infections
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Bladder stones
- Respiratory infections
- GI upset
These are eligible only if the dog is symptom-free for a set period (usually 6–12 months).
Chronic or lifelong conditions (e.g., cancer, diabetes, hip dysplasia) are almost always excluded permanently.
Tips for Insuring a Dog With Pre-Existing Conditions
- Get your vet records: Insurers will request these during the underwriting process.
- Compare waiting periods: Each company has different rules for curable conditions.
- Consider multiple options: Combine a discount plan with accident-only insurance.
- Be honest during application: Misrepresenting your dog’s health can void coverage.
- Enroll early: The younger your dog is, the fewer health issues you’ll need to worry about.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Pet Insurance for Dogs with Pre-Existing Conditions
While no pet insurance will fully cover ongoing pre-existing conditions, companies like Embrace, ASPCA, and Spot provide coverage for curable ones, giving hope to many dog owners. And alternatives like Pawp and Pet Assure offer valuable help outside traditional insurance models.
Choosing the best pet insurance for your dog involves weighing your pet’s current health, risk of emergencies, and your budget. Always read the fine print, ask for sample policies, and prioritize what coverage matters most to you.
FAQs
Is there any pet insurance that covers all pre-existing conditions?
No. All providers exclude ongoing pre-existing conditions, but some offer coverage for conditions that have resolved and haven’t recurred.
Should I still get pet insurance for a dog with pre-existing conditions?
Yes. While your current conditions won’t be covered, new illnesses, accidents, and wellness care may still be eligible depending on the plan.
What if my dog has diabetes?
You won’t be able to insure the diabetes, but you can still get accident coverage or use discount plans like Pet Assure to reduce costs.
