Quick answer
- The English Bulldog is consistently among the most expensive dog breeds to insure. MoneyGeek’s 2026 analysis averages about $204 a month for a 6-year-old Bulldog, with the cheapest standard plan around $70.
- A US industry report found English Bulldog premiums with a median of about $96 a month, the highest of any dog breed it studied.
- The costs come from breathing problems (BOAS), skin fold infections and allergies, eye disease, joint problems and the higher risk of anesthesia.
- Some insurers add longer waiting periods or limits for brachycephalic airway surgery. Read the policy wording before buying.
English Bulldogs are lovable and calm, and they are also one of the costliest breeds to keep healthy. Insurers know this, which is why Bulldog premiums are high and why policy terms matter so much.
How much does English Bulldog insurance cost?
| Source | Monthly premium |
|---|---|
| MoneyGeek (2026), 6-year-old Bulldog | About $204 average; about $70 with the cheapest provider ($5,000 limit, $500 deductible, 80% reimbursement) |
| Industry premium report (via Today’s Veterinary Business) | $74 to $129; median about $96, the highest dog breed in the report |
Premiums rise with age, and MoneyGeek’s state data ranges from roughly $138 to $264 a month.
Why Bulldogs are so expensive to insure
- Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS): narrow nostrils, a long soft palate and a small windpipe make breathing hard, especially in heat. Corrective surgery is common.
- Skin: deep skin folds, allergies and recurring infections are among the most frequent Bulldog claims.
- Eyes: cherry eye, entropion and dry eye often need surgery or lifelong medication.
- Joints and spine: hip dysplasia, patellar luxation and spinal abnormalities.
- Anesthesia risk: any surgery needs extra monitoring, which raises costs.
- Births: most Bulldog litters are delivered by C-section, though breeding costs are usually excluded by insurance.
Policy terms to check for a Bulldog
- Brachycephalic coverage: confirm BOAS surgery is covered and check for special waiting periods. Some insurers outside the US apply a 12-month wait to BOAS.
- Hereditary and congenital conditions: must be covered, since most Bulldog problems are breed-linked.
- Bilateral conditions: cherry eye and entropion often affect both eyes.
- Chronic conditions: allergies and skin disease should stay covered at renewal.
- Exam fees and prescription diets: frequent visits make exam fee coverage valuable.
Is pet insurance worth it for an English Bulldog?
For most owners of a young Bulldog, yes, even at high premiums, because the chance of large and recurring bills is high. The math is weaker if your dog already has documented airway, eye or skin problems, which will be excluded.
Ways to lower the cost
- Enroll your puppy immediately, before any airway or eye issue is recorded.
- Choose a higher deductible and 80% reimbursement rather than 90%.
- Compare several insurers; MoneyGeek’s spread between the cheapest and average plan is large.
- Keep your Bulldog lean and cool. Weight and heat both worsen breathing problems.
For a closely related breed, see our French Bulldog pet insurance guide.
Sources
- MoneyGeek, English Bulldog pet insurance (2026).
- Today’s Veterinary Business, report on pet insurance premiums by breed.
- PetPlace, best pet insurance for English Bulldogs.
- A-Plan Insurance (UK), most expensive breeds to insure.
Frequently asked questions
How much is pet insurance for an English Bulldog?
It varies widely. MoneyGeek’s 2026 analysis averages about $204 a month for a 6-year-old Bulldog, while the cheapest standard plan it found was about $70.
Why are English Bulldogs so expensive to insure?
They have high rates of breathing problems, skin and eye disease, joint issues and anesthesia risk, which lead to frequent and costly claims.
Does pet insurance cover BOAS surgery for Bulldogs?
Many policies do if the condition was not noted before coverage and hereditary conditions are included. Check for brachycephalic-specific waiting periods or limits.