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Best Pet Insurance for Basset Hounds

medium breed12–13 years lifespan~$1,200/yr vet costs

The Basset Hound is a French scent hound breed with an unmistakable silhouette — long, low body; enormous floppy ears; and soulful, drooping eyes. Bassets are gentle, easygoing companions known for their melodious bay and relentless nose. Despite their mellow temperament, they can be stubborn and are notoriously food-motivated. Basset ownership requires attention to weight management (overweight Bassets suffer dramatically increased health problems), ear hygiene, and awareness of spinal disease risk. With appropriate care, they are affectionate, entertaining companions that rarely want to be very far from their favorite human.

Best Pet Insurance for Basset Hounds (Ranked)

🏆
EmbraceBest match for Basset Hounds
97
/ 100
★★★★★
4.7(18,420 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$80
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more

Score Breakdown

Condition Coverage
40% weight100
Price & Value
25% weight100
No Breed Exclusions
20% weight100
Customer Rating
15% weight80
Overall Score97 / 100
Visit EmbraceFull Review
#2
97
/ 100
★★★★★
4.7(39,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$90
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period15 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit Healthy PawsFull Review
#3
95
/ 100
★★★★★
4.5(22,100 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$10–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit LemonadeFull Review
See All 31 Providers Ranked for Basset Hounds →

Basset Hound Health Risks & Conditions

Understanding your Basset Hound's specific health risks helps you choose the right coverage.

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

high risk

Basset Hounds are chondrodystrophic — their cartilage develops abnormally, which is what creates their distinctive short, bowed legs. This same genetic trait causes premature disc degeneration. IVDD can cause mild back pain managed medically ($500–$1,500) or severe spinal cord compression requiring emergency surgery ($3,000–$8,000). Without surgery for severe cases, permanent paralysis can result. Basset Hounds should never be allowed to jump on/off furniture.

Treatment cost:$500–$8,000

Chronic Ear Infections (Otitis)

very high risk

Basset Hounds' long, floppy ears trap moisture and reduce air circulation, creating ideal conditions for chronic bacterial and yeast infections. Most Bassets experience recurring ear infections throughout their lives. Each infection episode costs $150–$400 to treat. Without proper prevention (weekly ear cleaning), infections can progress to the middle ear (otitis media, $500–$2,000 to treat). Annual ear-related costs commonly reach $400–$800.

Treatment cost:$200–$2,000

Hip Dysplasia

moderate risk

Hip dysplasia affects a meaningful portion of Basset Hounds, compounded by obesity risk — excess weight significantly accelerates joint degeneration. Surgical options (FHO, total hip replacement) run $1,500–$6,000 per hip. Medical management with appropriate weight maintenance, anti-inflammatories, and joint supplements can significantly reduce progression rates.

Treatment cost:$1,500–$6,000

Obesity and Related Conditions

very high risk

Basset Hounds are strongly predisposed to obesity due to food motivation and a lower activity drive. Obesity in Bassets dramatically worsens IVDD risk, joint disease, and cardiovascular health. Annual costs of managing an obese Basset — prescription weight management food, joint supplements, increased vet visits — can reach $1,000–$3,000. Weight management is the single most impactful preventive intervention for this breed.

Treatment cost:$300–$3,000

Osteochondrosis (OCD)

moderate risk

Osteochondrosis dissecans affects cartilage development in young Basset Hounds, particularly in the shoulder, elbow, and hock joints. It causes lameness and joint pain typically appearing between 4–8 months of age. Surgical treatment ($1,000–$4,000 per joint) removes the loose cartilage fragment. Conservative management is an option for milder cases.

Treatment cost:$1,000–$4,000

What to Look for in Basset Hound Pet Insurance

Basset Hounds need IVDD coverage as a top priority — spinal surgery is a real possibility for this breed. Ear infection coverage (which many plans exclude as a chronic condition) is worth evaluating carefully. Look for plans that cover IVDD and other hereditary orthopedic conditions, and that provide ongoing/chronic condition coverage. Embrace and Pets Best both offer strong chronic condition coverage with IVDD benefits.

Basset Hound Quick Stats

📅
12–13 years
Life expectancy
💰
$1,200/yr
Avg vet costs
📊
#39
Most popular
⚠️
5
Key health risks

Common Basset Hound Health Conditions

⚠️ hip dysplasia⚠️ osteochondrosis⚠️ intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)⚠️ ear infections (otitis)⚠️ obesity

All Providers Ranked for Basset Hounds

#4
95
/ 100
★★★★★
4.5(31,200 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$17–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit Pets BestFull Review
#5
95
/ 100
★★★★★
4.5(11,300 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$25–$90
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period15 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit FetchFull Review
#6
95
/ 100
★★★★★
4.5(7,400 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$30–$100
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement80%, 90%
Waiting period14 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit PumpkinFull Review
#7
94
/ 100
★★★★★
4.4(9,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$75
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit SpotFull Review
#8
94
/ 100
★★★★★
4.4(14,600 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$30–$120
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement90%
Waiting period5 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit TrupanionFull Review
#9
94
/ 100
★★★★★
4.4(15,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$75
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period0 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit MetLifeFull Review
#10
93
/ 100
★★★★★
4.3(25,600 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit ASPCAFull Review
#11
93
/ 100
★★★★★
4.3(9,600 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$18–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%, 100%
Waiting period1 day (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit FigoFull Review
#12
93
/ 100
★★★★★
4.3(3,100 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$80
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit AnimaliaFull Review
#13
92
/ 100
★★★★★
4.2(2,400 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$60
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit KanguroFull Review
#14
92
/ 100
★★★★★
4.2(3,600 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit Physicians MutualFull Review
#15
91
/ 100
★★★★★
4.1(12,900 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$25–$100
Annual limitUnlimited (whole pet)
Reimbursement50%, 70%, 90%
Waiting period14 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit NationwideFull Review
#16
91
/ 100
★★★★★
4.1(4,200 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$17–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit OdieFull Review
#17
91
/ 100
★★★★★
4.1(3,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$18–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit Prudent PetFull Review
#18
91
/ 100
★★★★★
4.1(3,200 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$16–$60
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit TotoFull Review
#19
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(8,200 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$75
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit AKCFull Review
#20
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(5,600 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit CarePlusFull Review
#21
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(6,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit PetPartnersFull Review
#22
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(2,900 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$17–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit TrustedPalsFull Review
#23
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(5,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$80
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement100%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit WagmoFull Review
#24
89
/ 100
★★★★★
3.9(1,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$18–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit DoggoFull Review
#25
89
/ 100
★★★★★
3.9(4,500 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit PetPremiumFull Review
#26
88
/ 100
★★★★★
3.8(900 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$55
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit PawdarlingFull Review
#27
87
/ 100
★★★★★
3.7(4,100 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit HartvilleFull Review
#28
87
/ 100
★★★★★
3.7(1,200 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✗Hereditary
✓Cancer
✗Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$10–$45
Annual limit$10,000
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit NibblesFull Review
#29
85
/ 100
★★★★★
3.6(4,800 reviews)

Excellent match for Basset Hounds. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$60
Annual limit$10,000
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hip dysplasiaosteochondrosisintervertebral disc disease (IVDD)ear infections (otitis)+1 more
Visit 24PetprotectFull Review
#30
48
/ 100
★★★★★
3.8(1,100 reviews)

Consider alternatives with stronger hereditary condition coverage for Basset Hounds.

✗Hereditary
✗Cancer
✗Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$8–$35
Annual limit$5,000
Reimbursement80%, 90%
Waiting period0 days (accident)
Visit SpokkFull Review
#31
44
/ 100
★★★★★
3.8(2,200 reviews)

Consider alternatives with stronger hereditary condition coverage for Basset Hounds.

✗Hereditary
✓Cancer
✗Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✗No Exclusions
Monthly cost$10–$45
Annual limit$7,000
Reimbursement90%
Waiting period0 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

obesity
Not covered: hip dysplasiaNot covered: osteochondrosis
Visit Companion ProtectFull Review

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