Does pet insurance cover French Bulldog breathing problems?

Some insurers cover BOAS surgery if your Frenchie is enrolled before symptoms appear. Check that your policy explicitly covers hereditary conditions.

How much does French Bulldog insurance cost?

Expect to pay $80 - $120/month for comprehensive coverage due to the breed's high health risks.

Can I insure my adult French Bulldog?

Yes, but enroll as early as possible. Once conditions like breathing trouble are documented, they become pre-existing and won't be covered.

French Bulldog Insurance Guide 2026: What's Covered & What's Not?

If you own a French Bulldog in 2026, you already know two things: they are incredibly lovable, and they are incredibly expensive to keep healthy.

Frenchies are now the #1 most popular dog breed in the US, but they are also notorious for expensive health issues. A single spinal surgery can cost $8,000+. This makes pet insurance not just a luxury, but a necessity for Frenchie parents.

The Big Three: What You MUST Cover

When shopping for a policy for your Frenchie, do not look at the price tag first. Look for these three specific coverages. If a policy excludes them, walk away.

1. BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome)

Frenchies have flat faces, which often causes breathing difficulties. Surgery to widen their nostrils and shorten their soft palate costs between $2,500 and $5,000.

Warning: Some insurers classify BOAS as a “pre-existing condition” based on breed standards. Ensure your policy covers hereditary conditions explicitly.

2. IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease)

Frenchies are prone to spinal issues. If a disc slips, your dog may become paralyzed. Emergency MRI and surgery cost $6,000 to $10,000.

Tip: Look for policies that cover MRI scans and rehabilitation (like hydrotherapy) post-surgery.

3. Allergies

Skin allergies are rampant in French Bulldogs. While not life-threatening, the lifelong cost of Cytopoint injections, special food, and medicated shampoos can add up to $1,500/year.

Best Insurers for French Bulldogs in 2026

Based on coverage for breed-specific conditions, here are our top picks:

Pets Best: Excellent coverage for hereditary conditions and very competitive pricing for Bulldogs.
Embrace: Known for covering curable pre-existing conditions if your dog is symptom-free for 12 months.
Trupanion: Expensive, but offers “Direct Pay” to vets, which is a lifesaver when facing a $8,000 emergency bill.

The Cost Reality

Expect to pay a premium. While a mixed breed might cost $40/month to insure, a French Bulldog puppy often costs $80 - $120/month for comprehensive coverage.

Is it worth it? Absolutely. One BOAS surgery or IVDD incident will cost more than 10 years of premiums.

Final Advice

Enroll your Frenchie as a puppy (8-10 weeks). Once they show signs of breathing trouble or back pain, no insurance will cover those specific issues. Lock in your coverage before the diagnosis happens.