Chow Chows are the most expensive dog breed to insure in 2026, with annual quotes reaching £297, according to new research from pet insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk.
The research, which surveyed 1,000 people, found that 29% of respondents do not look into the potential medical issues of their favoured breeds. Meanwhile, 36% said that rising vet costs were putting them off owning a dog.
Chow Chow Tops the List
Chow Chows, known for their distinctive blue-black tongue and bear-like faces, saw insurance quotes for accident and illness cover rise by £106 compared to the previous year, bringing the annual cost to £297. The breed is prone to several complex genetic health issues, including hip dysplasia, glaucoma and diabetes.
Cane Corso and Alaskan Malamute Follow
Cane Corsos, valued for their strength and loyalty, are the second most expensive breed to insure. Quotes for their insurance can reach up to £259 annually. This powerful breed grows rapidly as a puppy and is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as bone cancer and heart conditions.
Alaskan Malamutes, similar in appearance to Huskies and bred to drag sledges through the Arctic, are the third most expensive to insure at an annual cost of £238. Like Chow Chows and Cane Corsos, they are prone to hip dysplasia and can also develop Alaskan Malamute Polyneuropathy (AMPN), which causes progressive weakness and exercise intolerance. They can also develop cataracts and blindness.
