For many people, pets are more than just animals. They are beloved family members. But in Denmark, veterinary care can be costly, and unexpected accidents or illnesses can lead to bills that quickly add up. For foreigners, navigating the pet healthcare system and understanding the options of pet insurance in Denmark can be a challenge, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local requirements and terminology.
Pet insurance can help you avoid large, unexpected expenses while ensuring your furry (or feathered) friend gets the best possible care. In Denmark, coverage is available for a wide range of pets, although most policies focus on dogs and cats. Some insurance plans even include optional add-ons such as travel coverage or third-party liability for dogs, which can be mandatory in certain cases.
In this guide, we will explain how pet insurance works in Denmark, outline the different types of coverage available, compare the most popular providers, and share research and statistics on pet ownership and vet costs. We will also offer practical tips to help you choose the best policy for your needs as a foreigner in Denmark and not least recommend a few tools to find the insurance that works for you and your pet.
Here are the key points in this article:
- Understanding Pet Insurance in Denmark: Pet insurance in Denmark functions similarly to human health insurance, covering veterinary expenses through monthly or yearly premiums, with various levels of coverage available.
- Types of Pet Insurance Coverage in Denmark: Denmark offers three main types of pet insurance: Accident-Only, Accident & Illness, and Comprehensive coverage, allowing pet owners to choose based on their budget and needs.
- Choosing the Right Pet Insurance in Denmark: Selecting suitable pet insurance involves considering language support, veterinary network, coverage limits, transferability, and cost-benefit analysis, especially for foreigners.
- Pet Ownership and Vet Costs in Denmark: Over 56% of dog owners in Denmark have pet insurance, with average vet costs around €133 per visit and annual expenses reaching €2,800 for dogs, reflecting rising veterinary costs.
- Legal and Practical Aspects of Pet Insurance in Denmark: While pet insurance is optional in Denmark, liability insurance for dogs is mandatory, and coverage rules vary for pre-existing conditions, age, and breed, affecting eligibility and cost.
The Best Pet Insurance in Denmark for You
You don’t have to read to the end to know what the best insurance provider for you is. Finding the right pet insurance in Denmark doesn’t have to be complicated, especially if you’re new to the country. A great starting point is using FindForsikring, which is a reliable insurance comparison platform. FindForsikring allows you to compare multiple offers side by side from trusted Danish providers, and help you see the differences in price, coverage, and terms at a glance.
Findforsikring.dk makes it easy for you to receive 3 free insurance quotes from different companies in one go. Many people overpay for insurance, so a quick check with an insurance comparison platform like Findforsikring.dk could save you money. Simply compare the offers and choose the best and cheapest option for you.
If you are looking for a more detailed guides on different types of pet health insurances in Denmark, you may want to check out our other guides, where we cover these topics in detail:
- Best Cat Insurance for Foreigners in Denmark
- Best Dog Insurance in Denmark for Foreigners
- Best Horse Insurance in Denmark
How Pet Insurance in Denmark Works
Pet insurance in Denmark functions much like health insurance for humans: you pay a monthly or yearly premium, and in return, the insurer covers a portion of your veterinary expenses if your pet becomes ill, has an accident, or requires surgery. Depending on the policy, you may also be reimbursed for preventive treatments, dental care, or alternative therapies.
When you visit the vet, you typically pay the bill upfront and then submit the receipt to your insurance provider for reimbursement. The percentage of costs covered varies between providers — common reimbursement rates range from 50% to 90% — and most policies have an annual maximum payout limit.
It’s important to note that in Denmark, pet insurance is not mandatory, but certain types of coverage are legally required for dog owners. Specifically, third-party liability insurance for dogs is compulsory and ensures you are financially protected if your dog causes injury to a person, another animal, or damages property.
For foreigners, a key difference from some other countries is that Danish pet insurers often have specific rules about pre-existing conditions, breed restrictions, and age limits for enrolment. These factors can affect both the price and the availability of coverage, so it’s best to research policies carefully before committing.
Types of Pet Insurance Coverage in Denmark
Pet insurance policies in Denmark generally fall into three main categories: Accident-Only, Accident & Illness, and Comprehensive Coverage. The right option depends on your budget, your pet’s age and breed, and how much risk you want to cover.
- Accident-Only Insurance
This is the most basic type, covering veterinary expenses if your pet is injured in an accident (e.g., hit by a car, injured in a fall). It doesn’t cover illnesses or preventive care. - Accident & Illness Insurance
This covers both accidents and a wide range of illnesses, from infections to chronic diseases. It’s the most common choice for pet owners in Denmark. - Comprehensive Coverage
This premium option includes accident and illness coverage plus extras like dental care, alternative therapies, vaccinations, and sometimes even wellness check-ups.
Comparing Pet Insurance Policies in Denmark
| Coverage Type | What’s Covered | Typical Cost Range (per month) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accident-Only | Injuries from accidents only | 70–120 DKK | Owners on a budget, younger pets with low risk of illness |
| Accident & Illness | Accidents + illnesses (acute & chronic conditions) | 120–250 DKK | Most pet owners who want balanced protection |
| Comprehensive | Accidents + illnesses + preventive care, dental, alternative therapies | 200–350 DKK | Owners seeking full coverage and peace of mind |
How to Choose the Right Pet Insurance in Denmark
Choosing the right pet insurance in Denmark as a foreigner goes beyond just comparing prices. You’ll want to consider how well the policy fits your pet’s needs, your budget, and your own situation as an expat.
Language & Customer Support
While many Danish insurance companies offer English support, not all do. Look for providers that have English-speaking staff or clear English policy documents so you understand exactly what’s covered.
Veterinary Network & Flexibility
Most Danish pet insurance plans allow you to visit any licensed vet, but some have preferred networks. If you live in a smaller town or rural area, check that nearby vets accept your insurer.
Coverage Limits & Exclusions
Pay close attention to annual or lifetime coverage limits, as well as exclusions for pre-existing conditions, older pets, or certain breeds. For example, some insurers have restrictions for large dog breeds or exotic animals.
Transferability from Abroad
If you’ve had pet insurance in your home country, some Danish providers may allow you to transfer coverage without a waiting period. This is worth asking about if you’ve recently moved.
Cost vs. Benefits
Cheaper policies might save you money upfront but could leave you exposed to high vet bills later. Weigh the monthly premium against the level of coverage and your pet’s specific needs.
Understand Pet Insurance in Denmark
Over 56% of dog owners in Denmark carry pet insurance, which is significantly higher than in countries like Austria. Among cat owners, the rate is lower—around 27%—but still meaningful compared to neighboring nations.
A study from the University of Copenhagen found that the average veterinary visit costs around €133, and lifetime veterinary expenses for dogs can reach approximately €2,800 over a 10-year lifespan.
According to recent data, the average monthly insurance cost for dogs is around DKK 300 (about €40), while for cats it’s approximately DKK 180 (about €24), depending on coverage level, age, and breed.
Veterinary costs in Denmark have increased by about 33% over the last five years, leading to sharp premium increases. Some pet owners report nearly doubling of annual costs—e.g., from DKK 1,846 to DKK 3,506 for the same policy year-over-year.
FAQ About Pet Insurances in Denmark
Is pet insurance mandatory in Denmark?
No, pet insurance is not mandatory. However, dog owners must have liability insurance (hundeejerforsikring) to cover damages their dog may cause to others. Health insurance for pets is optional but strongly recommended to manage veterinary costs.
Can foreigners buy pet insurance in Denmark?
Yes. Most Danish insurance companies allow foreigners to purchase pet insurance as long as they have a Danish address and CPR number. Some may also require proof of the pet’s vaccinations and health records.
How much does pet insurance cost in Denmark?
On average, dog health insurance costs around DKK 300 per month (€40) and cat health insurance about DKK 180 per month (€24), though premiums vary depending on breed, age, and coverage level.
What does pet insurance typically cover?
Coverage often includes vet visits, surgeries, medication, X-rays, and treatment for illness or injury. Some plans also include preventive care, dental treatment, or rehabilitation, but these are usually add-ons.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
No. Like in most countries, Danish pet insurance policies generally exclude pre-existing conditions, meaning any illness or injury that existed before the policy start date will not be covered.
Can I keep my pet insurance if I move away from Denmark?
In most cases, no. Danish pet insurance policies are valid only while you and your pet are registered residents in Denmark. If you move abroad, you’ll likely need to switch to a local insurer.
