The dog and cat breeds triggering the most pet insurance payouts
New data from Southern Cross Pet Insurance and PD Insurance reveals which dog and cat breeds generate the highest volume and frequency of insurance claims. The findings highlight common health issues like musculoskeletal conditions and growths in popular breeds.
Why it matters
Helps pet owners understand potential health risks and financial commitments associated with specific breeds.
New data has revealed which dog and cat breeds generate the most insurance claims, and shared some reasons why these may be the country’s most pampered pets. Southern Cross Pet Insurance (SCPI) shared data with 1News from the 2025 calendar year, and PD Insurance for the 12 months from July 1, 2025 to June 2026. SCPI chief executive Anthony McPhail said the company paid out more than $30.2 million across 78,649 claims over that period, for <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2023/04/25/pet-insurance-how-do-you-know-if-its-worth-it/">claims</a> ranging from routine vet consultations through to life-saving surgery and <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/07/21/dog-needed-emergency-surgery-after-eating-bone-treat-owner-says/">emergency treatment</a>. SCPI said across its more than 65,000 insured pets, dogs averaged $404 per claim, and cats $310 per claim. PD Insurance said 35.7% of respondents estimated they spent between $1000 and $2000 on their pet per year - excluding vet bills. SCPI revealed the dog and cat breeds which generated the most claims in terms of overall volume.
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