Germany is a nation of pet lovers, with approximately 47% of households owning a pet as of 2020, according to the German Pet Trade & Industry Association (ZZF). With 15.7 million cats and 10.5 million dogs living in German households in 2023, pets are often considered family members, deserving of the best care. However, veterinary costs in Germany can be substantial—ranging from €3,000 to €5,000 for surgeries like cruciate ligament repairs, as noted in pet insurance industry analyses. This makes pet insurance a critical consideration for German pet owners. In 2025, finding the best pet insurance companies in Germany is essential to ensure your pets receive top-notch care without breaking the bank.
Why Pet Insurance Matters in Germany
Germany’s pet insurance market is rapidly growing, valued at USD 719.37 million in 2023 and projected to grow at a CAGR of 16.40% through 2030, according to Grand View Research. This growth is driven by increasing pet ownership, the humanization of pets, and rising veterinary costs. Unlike human healthcare, veterinary care in Germany is not subsidized, meaning pet owners bear the full cost of treatments. For instance, the Association of British Insurers notes that a diabetes claim for a pet can cost around £1,300 (approximately €1,500), while emergency surgeries can be significantly more expensive.
Pet insurance in Germany, often referred to as Tierkrankenversicherung (pet health insurance) or Hundehaftpflichtversicherung (dog liability insurance), provides a financial safety net. It covers expenses for accidents, illnesses, surgeries, and, in some cases, liability for damages caused by pets—a legal requirement for dog owners in certain German states like Berlin and Lower Saxony. With only 30% of dog owners and 23% of cat owners having comprehensive pet health insurance, as per a Nordlight Research study, there’s a clear need for greater awareness about the best pet insurance companies in Germany to help pet owners make informed decisions in 2025.
How We Selected the Best Pet Insurance Companies in Germany for 2025
To compile this list, we evaluated pet insurance providers in Germany based on several key criteria, drawing from industry data, customer reviews, and expert analyses:
- Coverage Options: We prioritized companies offering comprehensive accident and illness coverage, with additional points for liability insurance, alternative therapies, and coverage for hereditary conditions.
- Cost and Value: We compared average premiums, deductibles, reimbursement rates, and annual limits to identify plans that balance affordability with robust coverage.
- Customer Experience: We considered customer reviews, claims processing speed, and features like 24/7 support, direct vet payments, and English-language services for expats.
- Flexibility and Customization: Companies allowing policyholders to tailor deductibles, reimbursement rates, and coverage limits scored higher.
- Accessibility for Expats: Given Germany’s large expat community, including Kenyans, we favored providers with English-language support and flexible identification requirements.
Full List of Best Pet Insurance Companies in Germany for 2025
Below is the full list of best pet insurance companies in Germany for 2025, featuring top providers that cater to a variety of needs and budgets. Each company is evaluated based on its offerings, pricing, and customer feedback, with insights tailored for German pet owners and expats, including those from Kenya.
1. Getsafe
Overview: Getsafe is a digital-first pet insurer in Germany, known for its user-friendly app and English-language support, making it a top choice for expats, including Kenyans living in Germany. It offers both pet health and liability insurance for dogs and cats, with a focus on transparency and flexibility.
Coverage:
- Accident and Illness: Covers vet fees for accidents, illnesses, surgeries, diagnostics, and medications, with plans ranging from surgery-only to full coverage.
- Annual Limits: Up to €5,000 for Comfort plans, with an unlimited option in the Premium plan.
- Unique Features: Includes 24/7 unlimited vet video consultations, worldwide coverage for up to 12 months, and direct vet payments, reducing upfront costs for pet owners.
- Liability Insurance: Available for dogs, covering damages to third parties, a legal requirement in some German states.
Cost:
- Average monthly premiums start at €10.50 for surgery-only plans and €18.10 for full coverage, depending on the pet’s age and breed.
- Deductibles can be 0%, 10%, or 20%, allowing you to lower premiums by opting for a higher deductible.
Pros:
- English-language support, ideal for expats.
- Flexible plans with no waiting period for accidents.
- High reimbursement rates, up to four times the GOT (official vet fee schedule).
- Direct vet payment option, a rare feature in Germany.
Cons:
- Only available for pets under 8 years old at enrollment.
- One-month waiting period for most treatments, except accidents.
- Limited to one pet per household.
Customer Feedback: Getsafe is highly rated for its ease of use and expat-friendly services, with Check24 awarding it top grades. Some customers note the age restriction as a drawback for older pets.
2. Feather
Overview: Feather is another fintech insurer catering to expats in Germany, offering pet health and liability insurance with English support. It’s a strong contender for those seeking comprehensive coverage and digital convenience.
Coverage:
- Accident and Illness: Offers surgery-only and standard plans, covering vet fees for accidents, illnesses, surgeries, and diagnostics.
- Additional Benefits: Includes emergency treatment, hospital stays, and coverage abroad for up to 6 months outside Europe.
- Liability Insurance: Covers damages caused by dogs, with options to insure multiple dogs in a joint policy.
Cost:
- Average premiums start at €18.10 per month for health insurance, with liability plans ranging from €50 to €80 annually for dogs.
- Deductibles vary by plan, typically starting at €100.
Pros:
- English-language support and app-based management.
- Covers pets aged 8 weeks to 9 years at enrollment.
- Free choice of vet and clinic.
- Comprehensive liability coverage for dogs.
Cons:
- Does not cover dangerous purebred dogs for liability insurance.
- Limited transparency on terms and conditions online.
- No coverage for pre-existing conditions in some cases.
Customer Feedback: Feather is praised for its expat-friendly approach and competitive pricing. Some customers wish for more detailed coverage information upfront.
3. Agila (HanseMerkur)
Overview: Agila, a subsidiary of HanseMerkur, is a well-established pet insurer in Germany, offering health and liability insurance for dogs and cats. It’s known for its comprehensive coverage and competitive pricing.
Coverage:
- Accident and Illness: Covers vet fees for accidents, illnesses, surgeries, diagnostics, and medications, with options for alternative therapies like acupuncture.
- Hereditary Conditions: Includes coverage for breed-specific conditions like hip dysplasia, common in German Shepherds.
- Liability Insurance: Mandatory in some states, covering damages up to €5 million, as recommended by the Bund Der Versicherten.
Cost:
- Average premiums are around €26.83 per month for health insurance, with liability plans costing €50–€80 annually for dogs.
- Deductibles typically start at €100, with reimbursement rates up to 100% in premium plans.
Pros:
- High reimbursement rates, up to four times the GOT.
- Covers alternative therapies and preventive care in premium plans.
- No upper age limit for liability insurance.
- Strong reputation in the German market.
Cons:
- Limited English-language support, which may be challenging for expats.
- Higher premiums for older pets or those with pre-existing conditions.
- Waiting period of 14 days for illnesses.
Customer Feedback: Agila is appreciated for its comprehensive coverage and high reimbursement rates. Some expat customers note the language barrier as a challenge.
4. Petcover
Overview: Petcover is an international pet insurer with a strong presence in Germany, offering a wide range of coverage for dogs, cats, horses, and exotic animals. It’s known for its global expertise and comprehensive plans.
Coverage:
- Accident and Illness: Covers vet fees for accidents, illnesses, surgeries, diagnostics, and medications, with up to 100% reimbursement.
- Additional Options: Includes coverage for dental illnesses, alternative therapies, and preventive care in higher-tier plans.
- Specialty Coverage: Offers policies for exotic animals, a unique feature in Germany.
Cost:
- Average premiums range from €15 to €80 per month, depending on the pet’s type, breed, and age.
- Deductibles vary by plan, typically starting at €100.
Pros:
- Comprehensive coverage, including exotic animals.
- Up to 100% reimbursement on vet fees.
- Global expertise with over 40 years of experience.
- Flexible plans for various pet types.
Cons:
- Higher premiums for older pets or those with pre-existing conditions.
- Limited information on waiting periods and exclusions.
- No direct vet payment option.
Customer Feedback: Petcover is praised for its wide-ranging coverage and international experience. Some customers note that premiums can be steep for older pets.
5. Allianz
Overview: Allianz is one of Germany’s largest insurance providers, offering pet health and liability insurance with a focus on reliability and customer satisfaction. It’s a popular choice for pet owners seeking a trusted name.
Coverage:
- Accident and Illness: Covers vet fees for accidents, illnesses, surgeries, diagnostics, and medications, with a reimbursement rate of 80%.
- Additional Benefits: Includes coverage for routine care like vaccinations and blood checks in some plans.
- Liability Insurance: Covers damages caused by dogs, with a sum insured of up to €5 million.
Cost:
- Average premiums are around €150 per year per cat for health insurance, with dog liability plans costing €50–€80 annually.
- Deductibles typically start at €100.
Pros:
- Trusted brand with a strong reputation.
- Covers routine care in some plans, a rare feature.
- High customer satisfaction, with many “winning” financially on claims.
- No breed-specific restrictions for health insurance.
Cons:
- Limited coverage for alternative therapies unless added as an extra.
- No direct vet payment option, requiring reimbursement.
- Mixed reviews on claims processing speed.
Customer Feedback: Allianz is highly rated for its reliability and cost-effectiveness, with customers on platforms like Reddit noting significant savings on vet bills. Some report occasional delays in claims processing.
How to Choose the Best Pet Insurance Company in Germany for Your Needs
Selecting the right pet insurance provider in Germany depends on your pet’s specific needs, your budget, and your preferences. Here are key factors to consider:
- Coverage Needs: If your pet is prone to hereditary conditions (e.g., hip dysplasia in German Shepherds), choose a provider like Agila or Petcover that covers these conditions.
- Budget: For affordable options, Getsafe and Feather offer competitive premiums, while Allianz provides more comprehensive coverage at a higher cost.
- Age of Pet: Most providers, like Getsafe and Feather, have age restrictions (e.g., under 8 or 9 years at enrollment), but Agila and Allianz are more flexible.
- Claims Process: Getsafe and Feather offer direct vet payments, while Allianz and Petcover require reimbursement, which may affect cash flow.
- Expat Needs: Expats, including Kenyans, should prioritize providers like Getsafe and Feather for their English-language support and app-based management.
Average Cost of Pet Insurance in Germany in 2025
The average cost of pet insurance in Germany in 2025 ranges from €15 to €80 per month, depending on the pet’s type, breed, age, and coverage level. Here’s a breakdown:
- Health Insurance:
- Dogs: €18–€80 per month, with surgery-only plans starting at €10.50 (Getsafe).
- Cats: €15–€50 per month, with basic plans around €15 (Petcover).
- Liability Insurance:
- Dogs: €50–€80 annually, as recommended by the Bund Der Versicherten for comprehensive coverage.
- Horses: €100–€150 annually, reflecting their higher risk.
Factors Affecting Costs:
- Breed: Breeds prone to health issues (e.g., French Bulldogs with breathing problems) cost more to insure.
- Age: Older pets have higher premiums due to increased health risks, with some providers increasing rates after age 7.
- Location: Urban areas like Berlin and Munich have higher vet costs, which can increase premiums.
- Coverage Level: Plans with higher annual limits or lower deductibles are more expensive.
Is Pet Insurance Worth It in Germany?
Pet insurance is a worthwhile investment for most German pet owners, given the high cost of veterinary care. A single surgery can cost €3,000–€5,000, and chronic conditions can lead to expenses exceeding €15,000 over a pet’s lifetime. With pet insurance, you can avoid making difficult decisions about your pet’s care due to financial constraints.
However, pet insurance may not be necessary if you have significant savings to cover emergency vet bills or if your pet is young and healthy with minimal risk of serious health issues. It’s also worth noting that pet insurance typically does not cover pre-existing conditions unless specified, so enrolling your pet early is key to maximizing benefits. For dog owners, liability insurance is often mandatory and highly recommended, as the Federation of Private Insurers in Germany processes over 80,000 claims annually, with an average claim amount of €1,000.
Tips for German Pet Owners: Getting the Most Out of Pet Insurance
To ensure you get the best value from your pet insurance policy, consider the following tips:
- Enroll Early: Insure your pet when they’re young to avoid exclusions for pre-existing conditions, a common practice among providers like Getsafe and Feather.
- Compare Quotes: Get quotes from at least three providers to find the best balance of coverage and cost. For example, Getsafe offers affordability, while Agila provides comprehensive coverage.
- Understand Exclusions: Read the fine print to know what’s not covered, such as routine care (e.g., vaccinations, spaying) or alternative therapies unless specified.
- Maintain Vaccinations: Keep your pet’s vaccinations up to date to minimize the risk of illnesses that could lead to higher premiums.
- Pay Annually: Some providers offer discounts for paying premiums annually, which can also help avoid interest charges.
Cultural Insights: Pet Ownership in Germany
Germany’s pet culture is deeply rooted in the humanization of pets, with 45% of households owning a pet in 2023, according to the German Pet Trade & Industry Association. Pets are often seen as family members, and the trend of pet humanization has led to increased spending on premium products and services, including insurance. The German pet insurance market’s growth reflects this cultural shift, as owners prioritize their pets’ health and well-being.
Dog liability insurance is particularly significant in Germany, where owners are legally responsible for damages caused by their pets under § 833 BGB (German Civil Code). In states like Berlin, Hamburg, and Lower Saxony, dog liability insurance is mandatory for all dogs, while in others, it’s required for “dangerous” breeds like Pit Bulls. This legal framework underscores the importance of choosing a provider that offers robust liability coverage, such as Agila or Feather.
For expats, including Kenyans living in Germany, the cultural emphasis on pet care can be a learning curve. However, the availability of English-language providers like Getsafe and Feather makes it easier to navigate the insurance landscape, ensuring their pets are well-protected in a new country.
The best pet insurance companies in Germany for 2025 offer a range of options to suit different budgets and needs, from Getsafe’s expat-friendly plans to Agila’s comprehensive coverage. Whether you’re a German resident or an expat from Kenya, choosing a provider that aligns with your pet’s health needs and your financial situation can ensure your furry friend receives the best care without the burden of unexpected vet bills. Review the full list of best pet insurance companies in Germany, compare quotes, and secure a plan today to give your pet the protection they deserve in 2025.
