The Cheapest Dogs to Insure in Australia (2025 Estimates)

Thinking of getting a dog but also nervous about the ongoing costs? One of the biggest hidden costs is pet insurance. The good news: some breeds are significantly cheaper to insure than others. Below is a guide to The Cheapest Dogs to Insure in Australia (2025 Estimates).

Why Some Breeds Are Cheaper to Insure

Insurance premiums reflect risk. Dogs with fewer hereditary issues, smaller size, simpler care needs and low vet-claim history tend to be safer bets for insurers. That’s why small, healthy, low-maintenance breeds often show up on “cheapest to insure” lists.

Also, insurers may offer lower rates for crossbreeds or mixed dogs — fewer genetic illness expectations = lower perceived risk.

Top Budget-Friendly Breeds You’ll See (in no particular order)

Here are some dog breeds commonly cited as being among the cheaper ones to insure in Australia:

• Chihuahua
• Pomeranian
• Maltese / Maltese Cross
• Jack Russell Terrier
• Border Terrier
• Spoodle
• West Highland White Terrier (cross)

On the flip side, breeds like French Bulldogs, Bulldogs, or purebred large dogs often command much higher rates.

Average Cost Differences (Small vs Large)

According to Canstar, in 2025:

• Average annual premium for small dogs (excluding high-risk breeds) ≈ $1,316
• Medium dogs average ≈ $1,323
• Large dogs average ≈ $1,423

A Border Collie, for instance, often falls in the lower end of medium-dog costs (~$1,250/yr) compared to more expensive breeds.

How to Get the Lowest Insurance Cost — Tips & Tricks

1. Start early — insuring your pup before illnesses emerge reduces chances of “pre-existing” exclusions.
2. Choose the right plan — at PetsOnMe, our Accidental Plan is our lowest premium option.
3. Adjust your excess — a higher excess lowers your premium, though you pay more when you claim.
4. Crossbreed advantage — mixed dogs often have fewer hereditary issues than purebreds.
5. Healthy habits help — diet, vet check-ups, vaccinations reduce illness claims which keeps future premiums lower.
6. Switching? If you’ve had continuous cover for 12+ months, PetsOnMe may waive waiting periods when you move policies.

Why Breed Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story

Even among “cheapest breeds,” your premium can vary a lot by age, location (postcode), sex, whether your dog is neutered, and plan level. So breed is just one factor — don’t assume it guarantees the lowest cost.

It’s also worth comparing offers side by side. Use PetsOnMe’s Compare Cover tool to see what different plans and levels cost for your dog.

Should You Pick Breed Based on Insurance Cost?

It’s tempting — but your bond with the dog should come first. Instead of chasing the cheapest breed, use smart insurance decisions to make ownership more affordable.

Breed cost is a helpful guideline, but the best value comes from matching the right plan to your pet’s needs.

Summary

• Small breeds like Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Jack Russell, Maltese often appear among the cheapest to insure in Australia.
• But cost depends heavily on your specific dog’s data (age, location, health).
• Choosing higher-excess, simpler plans or crossbreeds can lower premiums further.
• Use tools like PetsOnMe Dog Insurance and Compare Cover to fine-tune your cover.