Top 9 Pet Insurance Plans For Border Collies (2024)

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With a history as a working sheepherder, the Border Collie can always be relied on for its intelligence and athleticism. For the most part, these gorgeous, agile dogs are a healthy breed, with an average lifespan of 12-15 years. There have even been record-breaking Border Collies that lived to the ripe old ages of 25-27.

But of course, as with most dogs, the Border Collie breed is predisposed to certain medical conditions. While these health issues can be expensive to treat, you may be able to cover the high costs if you invest in pet insurance for your dog early.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when it comes to choosing the right pet insurance plan for your beloved Collie. This guide will help you select a plan that covers everything you want it to, so you can be there for your dog when they need you most.

Compare The Top 9 Pet Insurance Plans for Your Border Collie Using our Free No-Obligation Quote Tool below

The simplest way to compare pet insurance prices is to use our tool below. The comparison tool will show you quotes from the top 9 pet insurance carriers, including Trupanion, Pets Best, Lemonade, ManyPets, FIGO, HealthyPaws, Prudent Pet, Spot, and Embrace pet insurance.

How Much Does Pet Insurance for a Border Collie Cost?

Below are some sample pet insurance plans for a 1-year-old male Border Collie using the zip code 75001 (Texas) as an example.

• Pets Best – $27.70 per month
• Embrace – $31.96 per month
• Healthy Paws – $20.24 per month
• ManyPets – $25.33 per month

Ultimately, your plan’s premium will depend on several factors, including your dog’s age, size, and breed, as well as where you live. You also want to know what type of coverage your plan has and if it will help with Border Collie-specific health problems. Let’s get more into those medical conditions and how much you can expect to pay to treat them.

Common Health Problems Associated With Border Collies

Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) in Border Collies

Collie Eye Anomaly is an inherited disease that causes Collie puppies’ eyes to develop abnormally. As a result, the choroid (the group of blood vessels that absorb light and nourish the retina) is underdeveloped.

The mutation can potentially lead to retinal detachment, which is most common in the pup’s first year of life and can be prevented or minimized if caught early. Puppies can be tested for CEA at around three months of age.

Sadly, there is no cure for CEA. Since CEA is a genetic condition passed down by a parent carrying the gene (dominant or recessive), more responsible breeding practices are necessary to prevent puppies from being born with the disorder.

Hip Dysplasia in Border Collies

The hip joint is a ball and socket joint, and hip dysplasia causes malformation of the two components. That makes it difficult for your dog to walk, and the chronic laxity can cause abnormal wear, which leads to osteoarthritis.

The earlier you have your dog diagnosed, the better their outcome will be. Pet insurance often covers annual exams.

Osteochondritis Dissecans in Border Collies

This disease affects a dog’s joints (mainly the knees and shoulders.) Osteochondritis Dissecans occurs when the cartilage between the bones at the joints grows abnormally or becomes damaged. Disruption of the cartilage surface can make movement of the joint painful and may result in lameness of the affected limb.

If the cartilage separates from the joint, it can form a loose flap. This will likely need to be removed through surgery. Neglecting treatment for this condition could lead to osteoarthritis in your dog.

Periodontal Disease in Border Collies

Periodontal disease, otherwise known as gum disease, is an infection of the soft tissue that can cause serious damage to the bone that supports the teeth. Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease.

Periodontal disease starts with tartar build-up and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. When dental disease goes untreated for too long, bacteria makes its way into the bloodstream and can lead to worse health problems, causing damage to the heart, liver, or lungs. That’s why regular teeth brushing is so important; it’s not just about bad breath!

Typical Costs Of Treating Health Issues In Border Collies and How Pet Insurance Can Help

If left untreated, many of the health conditions listed above can result in long-term consequences and even require surgery, which ultimately makes them more expensive to manage. Selecting a pet insurance plan suited for your Border Collie’s particular needs might save you tons of money on medical costs.

Here are just some sample veterinary expenses for Border Collies:

• Collie Eye Anomaly Costs: Unfortunately, there’s no way to reverse this genetic condition. There is a surgical option to reattach or repair the retina, which can minimize the negative effects of CEA. That surgery will cost $1,000 per eye on average.
• Hip Dysplasia Costs: The cost of surgery for hip dysplasia is pricey, ranging from $4,000 to $6,000 per hip. Surgical options include Triple Pelvic Osteotomy, Femoral Head Osteotomy, and Juvenile Pubic Symphysiodesis, all costing thousands of dollars. Without surgery, your dog will suffer discomfort and eventually severe pain.
• Osteochondritis Dissecans Costs: Milder cases can be treated with pain medications and rest. If a loose flap of cartilage has formed, your vet will likely recommend surgery to reduce your dog’s pain and improve their mobility. Arthroscopic procedures can be very expensive, around $2,000-$4,000 per joint.
• Periodontal Disease Costs: Often, if dental disease is severe, your vet will want to give your dog a deep cleaning. Since they mostly require anesthesia, canine teeth cleaning procedures average between $500 and $1,000. You’ll end up paying even more for oral surgery and if your dog needs decayed teeth removed. A root canal, for example, could cost at least $1,000. The best way to save money on doggie dental care is with routine maintenance at home.

Knowing the signs and symptoms of these conditions common in Border Collies can help you catch them early, saving your dog and your money. When in doubt, take your pup to the vet to have them diagnosed.

What Is Pet Health Insurance And Why Do I Need It For My Border Collie?

Pet health insurance works very similarly to human health insurance. Your policy quote will range in monthly price, depending on your dog’s breed, age, and where you live. Typically, you’ll spend around $15-$66 per month as a pet parent.

Pet insurance is mainly about peace of mind, knowing you won’t be totally overwhelmed in case of an emergency. Enrolling even when your dog is young and healthy will ensure you have plenty of coverage when they need expensive medical care later. If you choose a plan more suited to your dog’s particular breed, you’ll be more prepared when something happens later on in their life.

Some plans cover accidents and illnesses, while others only cover accidents. Certain plans do cover breed-specific illnesses, and others do not. It all depends on what type of coverage you choose. With our free pet insurance comparison tool, you can get quotes from multiple insurance companies with no obligation to commit.

Whatever plan you choose, you’ll feel better knowing you can take care of your dog when they need you most. Plus, you won’t have to suddenly shell out thousands of dollars. Learn more about how pet insurance works here.

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