medium Herding 5/10 — Moderate Risk
Shetland Sheepdog
Monthly $22–$42
Risk Score 5/10
Size medium
PlayfulEnergeticBrightObedient
Shetland Sheepdog at a Glance
Breed Characteristics
Lifespan
12–14 years
Weight
15–25 lbs
Height
13–16 inches
Exercise Needs
moderate
Grooming Needs
high
Trainability
high
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Other Dogs
Yes
Apartment Friendly
Yes
Health Risks & Common Conditions
5 /10
Shetland Sheepdog Health Risk Score
Collie Eye Anomaly
ModerateA congenital eye condition that can cause vision impairment or blindness in severe cases.
Avg. Treatment: $1,500
Hip Dysplasia
ModerateAbnormal hip joint development that can lead to arthritis and mobility issues.
Avg. Treatment: $5,000
Dermatomyositis
LowAn inherited inflammatory disease of the skin and muscles, particularly common in Shelties and Collies.
Avg. Treatment: $2,000
Von Willebrand's Disease
LowAn inherited bleeding disorder affecting blood clotting.
Avg. Treatment: $2,000
Recommended Genetic Tests
- CEA/CH DNA Test
- MDR1 Test
- Hip Evaluation
- vWD DNA Test
Insurance Costs for Shetland Sheepdog
Monthly Cost
$22–$42
Avg. Annual Claim
$650
Claim Frequency
average
Suggested Deductible
$250
Coverage Highlights
Eye condition coverage for collie eye anomaly Hip dysplasia coverage recommended MDR1 drug sensitivity awareness
Insurance Provider Comparison
Compare coverage, costs, and ratings from top pet insurance providers
Best Overall
L
Lemonade
Monthly Premium
$20 - $80
Deductible $100, $250, $500
Reimbursement 70%, 80%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage
Covered
- Fast claims processing via app
- Customizable coverage plans
- Affordable base premiums
- Preventive care add-on available
- No exam fee coverage on base plan
- Limited availability in some states
- Newer company with less track record
Highest Rated
H
Healthy Paws
Monthly Premium
$25 - $90
Deductible $100, $250, $500, $750
Reimbursement 70%, 80%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage
Covered
- Unlimited annual and lifetime benefits
- No caps on claim payouts
- Fast claim processing (2-3 days average)
- Covers hereditary and congenital conditions
- No routine or preventive care coverage
- No dental coverage
- Longer waiting period for accidents than competitors
Best for Comprehensive Coverage
E
Embrace
Monthly Premium
$25 - $85
Deductible $200, $300, $500, $750, $1000
Reimbursement 70%, 80%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage
Covered
- Diminishing deductible (decreases $50/year with no claims)
- Covers exam fees
- Dental illness coverage included
- Wellness Rewards add-on for routine care
- Annual limits (no unlimited option)
- Premiums can increase with age
- Orthopedic conditions have 6-month waiting period
Best for Exotic Pets
N
Nationwide
Monthly Premium
$30 - $100
Deductible $250, $500, $750
Reimbursement 50%, 70%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage
Covered
- Whole Pet plan covers wellness and illness
- Only major insurer covering exotic pets
- Employer-sponsored plans available
- Long-established company since 1982
- Higher premiums than competitors
- Slower claims processing
- Benefit schedule plans pay less than expected
- 14-day waiting period for accidents
Best for Large Breeds
T
Trupanion
Monthly Premium
$30 - $120
Deductible $0, $100, $200, $500, $1000
Reimbursement 90%
Hereditary Coverage
Covered
- 90% reimbursement on all plans
- No payout limits per incident or lifetime
- Direct vet payment option at many clinics
- Covers hereditary and congenital conditions from day one
- Only 90% reimbursement option (no 70% or 80%)
- No wellness or routine care coverage
- 30-day waiting period for illnesses
- Higher premiums overall
Best Value
P
Pets Best
Monthly Premium
$18 - $75
Deductible $50, $100, $200, $250, $500
Reimbursement 70%, 80%, 90%
Hereditary Coverage
Covered
- Very affordable base premiums
- Low deductible options starting at $50
- Fast claims processing (5 days average)
- BestWellness plan for routine care add-on
- No dental coverage
- Customer service can be slow
- Lower annual limits on budget plans
- Premium increases with age can be significant
Protect Your Shetland Sheepdog Today
With a moderate health risk profile, having the right insurance plan can save you thousands in unexpected vet bills.
Without Insurance
$1,764 /year estimated
- Full cost of emergencies out of pocket
- Difficult financial decisions during crises
- Unpredictable veterinary expenses
Recommended
With Insurance
$504 /year estimated
- Up to 90% of vet bills covered
- Peace of mind for emergencies
- Predictable monthly expenses
Get Your Free Quote
Plans from as low as $22/month
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Frequently Asked Questions About Shetland Sheepdog Insurance
Pet insurance for a Shetland Sheepdog typically costs $22-$42 per month. They have a moderate health risk profile with manageable conditions.
Shelties are prone to collie eye anomaly, hip dysplasia, dermatomyositis, and von Willebrand's disease. Genetic testing can identify most of these conditions.
Yes, some Shelties carry the MDR1 gene mutation making them sensitive to certain medications. A simple DNA test can determine if your Sheltie is affected.
