French Bulldog Insurance Guide 2026: The Real Cost of 'Cute'

French Bulldogs are the #1 breed in America, but they are also the #1 most expensive to insure. Why? Genetics.

If you own a Frenchie, you aren’t just insuring a dog; you are insuring a complex medical patient.

🫁 The #1 Risk: BOAS (Airway Syndrome)

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) affects 50% of Frenchies. Their nostrils are too small, and their soft palates are too long.

Procedure	Avgerage Cost (2026)	Recovery Time
Nares Resection (Widen Nostrils)	$1,200 - $2,000	2 Weeks
Soft Palate Resection	$2,500 - $4,000	3-4 Weeks
Total BOAS Correction	$4,500 - $6,000	4 Weeks

Dr. Sarah’s Expert Opinion: “Do not wait for your dog to struggle breathing. I recommend insuring Frenchies at 8 weeks old. By 6 months, many already show ‘pre-existing’ signs like snorting, which gives insurers a reason to deny future airway claims.”

🦴 The Paralysis Risk: IVDD

Frenchies have “screw tails” which leads to spinal deformities. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a catastrophic spinal slip.

• Emergency MRI: $3,000
• Decompressive Surgery: $6,000 - $9,000
• Rehab: $1,500

Total Claim: ~$13,500. Without insurance, this is often a euthanasia decision.

🏆 Best Insurers for Frenchies

1. Pets Best: Generally lower premiums for Bulldogs, good hereditary coverage.
2. Trupanion: Direct Pay is crucial when facing a $10,000 emergency deposit.
3. Embrace: Covers curable conditions, useful for their frequent skin allergies.

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