Pet insurance for your Chihuahua.

  • Comprehensive Lifetime Chihuahua insurance up to £15,000

  • Unlimited free video vet calls

  • Dental included as standard

A woman holding her Chihuahua.

Protect your pet with comprehensive coverage.

Are you worried about vet costs for your Chihuahua?

It’s normal to wonder if pet insurance is really necessary, especially when Chihuahuas don’t look like they need much more than a cosy dog bed and a few cuddles.

But once you learn that Chihuahuas are prone to certain age-related issues and serious health issues such as eye conditions, you might start to feel uneasy.

That’s why we’re here to share a solution that can help you feel confident and prepared—by having Chihuahua insurance in place with Waggel.

A ginger Chihuahua wearing a blue jumper.

The Chihuahua dog breed's unique needs.

Chihuahuas are one of the most well-known dogs on the planet, partly thanks to their size. In fact, a Chihuahua named Milly even made headlines as the world's smallest dog by height.

This breed of dog hails from the Mexican state of Chihuahua and has earned plenty of admirers due to its bold personality and tiny frame.

However, Chihuahuas can suffer from various health conditions at any point in their lives. Their petite bodies and sometimes delicate joints mean that common health problems such as patella luxation (a knee joint issue) or eye conditions (like corneal ulcers) can quickly turn into costly vet bills.

Getting the right Chihuahua dog insurance is crucial so you can cover the cost of treatment and continue providing the best care for your furry friend.

If you’re thinking about getting a Chihuahua puppy or already have one, you might worry about everything from preventing ‘small dog syndrome’ to handling their occasional stubborn streak.

We understand the concerns, so let’s explore why insurance can help you and your Chihuahua dog lead a long and happy life together.

For more on dog health, you can read our blog post on why dog noses are wet. It takes a deeper look at what a wet nose might say about your dog’s overall health—something especially important if your dog is injured or unwell.

Common health issues in Chihuahuas.

Understanding the prevalent health conditions in Chihuahuas and their potential treatment costs can help owners make informed decisions about pet insurance. Below are some common health issues affecting Chihuahuas:​

Condition

Average cost (UK)

Condition explanation

Patellar luxation

~£1,100 (for small dogs)

The kneecap slips out of place, causing lameness and discomfort.

Mild cases may need pain relief and physio; severe cases often require surgery.

Dental disease

~£650

Chihuahuas often have overcrowded teeth due to their tiny mouths, leading to plaque and gum disease.

Treatment may involve cleaning and tooth extractions.

Tracheal collapse

Varies (can be high if surgery needed)

A weakened windpipe can lead to a honking cough and breathing trouble.

Managed with medication or, in serious cases, surgery to support the airway.

Heart disease (Mitral valve disease)

~£1,050

A common issue in older Chihuahuas. It affects the mitral valve and can lead to heart failure.

Treatment includes lifelong meds and regular vet visits.

Eye conditions

~£1,013 (e.g. eye ulcer)

Chihuahuas are prone to dry eye, entropion, and lens luxation.

Treatment varies from drops to surgery, depending on the condition.

A couple standing with a Chihuahua between them.

​When comparing the average monthly insurance cost for a Chihuahua—approximately £17 in the UK as of March 2025—with the potential expenses of treating common health issues, the value of pet insurance becomes evident.

Get a quote with us today to see how Waggel’s dog insurance policies stack up.

​Note: Costs are approximate and can vary based on location and specific veterinary practices.

Why Chihuahuas may incur higher veterinary costs.

Despite their small size, Chihuahuas can face substantial veterinary expenses due to their predisposition to certain health conditions. Their delicate bone structure makes them susceptible to fractures, which may require specialised surgical intervention.

Additionally, dental issues are prevalent in the breed, often necessitating professional cleaning or extractions.​

Without pet insurance, covering these medical expenses out of pocket can be challenging. Investing in a comprehensive insurance policy helps mitigate these costs, providing peace of mind and ensuring your Chihuahua receives the best possible care.​

If you're in the process of welcoming a new Chihuahua puppy into your home, consider exploring our article on
puppy insurance. It highlights the importance of securing insurance early to support your puppy's health and well-being from the start.

For more information on the various types of pet insurance available, consider reading our guide on
different types of pet insurance.

Waggel’s insights.

Here at Waggel, we like to remind new and experienced owners that Chihuahuas are confident family members who can be your faithful companion for many happy years. However, their small size means common health conditions like dental disease can sneak up on you.

We also know pre-existing health concerns can be daunting. If you’re worried about pre-existing conditions, we discuss them in more detail in our post on
pre-existing conditions. It’s always good to understand how any past treatments may affect this breed’s coverage.

A Chihuahua looking wistfully off to the right.

Waggel's Lifetime pet insurance for Chihuahuas​.

Waggel provides a tailored Lifetime policy that offers comprehensive coverage for accidents, illnesses, and injuries, allowing customisation to fit your financial and coverage preferences.​

The following table summarises Waggel's coverage specifics, reflecting information from waggel.co.uk as of March 2025:​

Feature

Coverage details

Accidents & illnesses

✅ Coverage up to your selected Annual Limit (ranging from £1,000 to £15,000), encompassing diagnostics, surgeries, and medications.

Routine care

❌ Not included (e.g., vaccinations, flea/worm treatments, grooming services).

Chronic conditions

✅ Covered if they arise after the policy initiation (subject to Annual Limit renewal).

Dental coverage

✅ £1,000 sub-limit for dental procedures related to accidents or illnesses (routine cleanings are excluded).

Behavioral therapy

✅ £1,000 sub-limit for sessions with certified behaviourists.

24/7 vet video consultations

✅ Unlimited access through the Joii app (complimentary for members).

Direct claim payments

✅ Payments made directly to RCVS-registered veterinarians upon agreement.

Third-party liability

✅ Up to £2 million coverage for dogs, addressing injuries or damages to third parties.

Excess (Claim Contribution)

Adjustable between £0 and £500 to help manage premium costs.

Typical monthly premium

Varies based on factors like pet age, breed, and location. For example, premiums for dogs typically range from £25 to over £60, depending on the chosen Annual Limit and Excess.

Additional highlights:

Single comprehensive plan: Waggel offers exclusively Lifetime coverage with adjustable Annual Limits and Excess options.​

Pre-existing conditions: Not covered, including any conditions that manifest within the initial 14-day "warm-up period."​

Member benefits: Access to free consultations with nutritionists, rewards from partners (such as Butternut Box), and support from a dedicated UK-based vet nurse (Customer Champion).​

For an accurate quote tailored to your Chihuahua, visit Waggel's online quote tool. Premiums are influenced by factors including breed, age, location, and selected coverage options.

Comparing insurance types.

Below is a helpful comparison of the Chihuahua insurance in place with Waggel, alongside other types of dog insurance.

Notice that each plan can offer various levels of protection against the cost of pet care, including grooming accidents or major operations—even if your dog was larger and had different needs.

Coverage type

Main features

Ideal for

Accident-only pet insurance

Covers accidents such as fractures or poisoning.

Owners on a tighter budget, or those with an indoor Chihuahua.

Maximum benefit insurance

Fixed financial limit per condition until the limit is used.

Those who want protection for specific conditions without a lifetime cap.

Lifetime insurance

Ongoing, yearly coverage for any new or recurring conditions.

Owners seeking peace of mind for all future treatments.



Comparing these options ensures you can find the best plan for your dog's needs. In fact, we’re here to help you figure out which might suit your situation best. If you’re still exploring the idea of insurance, check out our blog on the
ins and outs of pet insurance for a broader perspective.

Top insurance benefits at a glance.

Here’s a quick list of what you gain when you insure your pet with Waggel for Chihuahua dog insurance:

You minimise the insurance premium spikes when faced with unexpected vet bills or hospital stays.

You gain coverage for common health problems like eye ulcers and kneecap issues that Chihuahuas are prone to.

You protect yourself from financial shock if your dog is injured and requires surgery or hospitalisation.

You get reassurance that insurance can help safeguard future well-being, from pesky dog grooming tips to major health conditions.

We believe our approach fosters a community spirit so you never feel alone if your pet being unwell becomes a reality.

As of March 2025, the average monthly cost to insure a Chihuahua in the UK is £19/mo.

A woman hugging her Chihuahua.

Caring for a Chihuahua.

Socialise your Chihuahua early

Even though they’re cute and cuddly, a Chihuahua's high-maintenance reputation is a common misconception.

Proper socialisation can help ensure Chihuahuas aren’t overly anxious or reactive around other people or pets.

If you give them fun experiences, they really do make great companions for families, professionals, or seniors alike.

Manage exercise needs and watch for injuries

Chihuahuas only need moderate activity because too much exercise can strain their small frames. Even though Chihuahuas are loyal and energetic, short walks and gentle playtimes help keep them fit without overexertion.

Remember that if your Chihuahua is uncertain about bigger dogs, keep them on a lead so there’s less chance of injuries. And should an injury happen, your pet insurance is right there for you.

If you need more insight into dog behaviour or potential health clues, our post on
the top 10 small breeds can help you compare your Chihuahua to other petite pups.

Keep up with regular grooming

Most Chihuahuas have short coats, but even long-haired ones don’t require extensive routines.

However, a scheduled groom helps you spot any lumps or abnormalities early on—an essential for catching health conditions before they progress. This also helps you keep track of potential ear infections or issues associated with caring for a Chihuahua.

While Chihuahuas are known for minimal grooming expenses, it’s always worth double-checking if your plan covers grooming-related accidents or skin issues.

In some cases, a policy that includes add-ons for advanced dermatologist visits can be a lifesaver if your pet is seen to have persistent itchiness or sores.

Real-world scenarios: Chihuahua insurance in action.

Picture this: You come home after work and notice your usually playful Chihuahua is limping. It could be a mild sprain, or it might be something more serious, like a joint misalignment (common in small dog breeds).

A quick trip to the vet might reveal a need for X-rays or even surgery. Rather than panicking over the cost of pet care, you breathe easier knowing that your Waggel dog insurance is on standby.

Maybe a friend of yours has Bulldog insurance policy through Waggel—and you see how thoroughly they handled everything.

Whether it’s Cockapoo pet insurance or Cocker Spaniel pet insurance, Waggel aims to provide the same streamlined support for all owners so you can confidently face whatever life throws your way—no matter your breed of dog.

Chihuahua insurance that lasts a lifetime.

Flexible limits and Excess

Adjustable Annual Limit and Excess to suit your coverage and budgetary needs. It's just one of our many unique features and helps you to take control of your pet's policy.

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A sleeping cat with a heart above its head

Complete coverage

We'll cover your vet fees up to the limits selected. This includes consultation fees, diagnostics, procedures, surgery and medication.

A tube of toothpaste being squirted

Dental included

We cover treatment costs associated with dental-related accidents and illnesses up to £1,000.

Protect your Chihuahua today.

If you’ve ever wondered, “How much does it cost to secure great Chihuahua dog insurance?” We're here to help.

Our flexible approach to pet insurance ensures you only pay for what your dog needs, with flexible cover limits, excess payments, and included features such as access to behavioural and nutritional experts.

Ready to protect your Chihuahua? Get your
pet insurance quote from Waggel right now, or visit our home page to learn more about our features, our customer rewards, and see the amazing reviews we’re proud to hold.

Chihuahuas are confident little creatures, and that confidence can be yours, too, when you know your beloved companion is well covered.

We understand that Chihuahuas can be prone to special challenges, and that’s why Waggel is here to stand by you from puppyhood to the golden years.

Taking out insurance is a proactive way to show your dog how much you care—because when it comes to your furry friend, we believe safety, comfort, and peace of mind should always be top priorities.