Basenji Pet Insurance
Give your Basenji nose-to-tail coverage for all of life's surprises!
Basenjis are independent, smart, and poised companions who bring endless joy to families, but as a medium breed, they’re prone to certain health conditions that can lead to expensive vet bills. Hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and Fanconi syndrome are just a few common concerns that could cost thousands to treat.
Pet insurance helps you focus on what matters most: your Basenji’s health and happiness. Here’s everything you need to know about coverage options, costs, and why insurance makes sense for this beloved breed.
What does Basenji pet insurance cover?
A base Lemonade pet health insurance policy helps cover the costs of medication, tests, and treatments if your Basenji has an unexpected accident or illness (provided it’s not related to a pre-existing condition, and occurs after your policy’s waiting periods have ended).
Whether it’s an unexpected accident during play time or a breed-specific illness like Hip dysplasia, Basenjis benefit from comprehensive coverage that protects against life’s surprises.
Wellness care
Want to get money back for your Basenji’s routine care? Our preventive packages reimburse you for the stuff you’re already doing, like annual checkups, vaccines, blood work, and other routine care that keep your pup healthy and happy.
Keep in mind, preventative care offerings might differ based on where you live. The easiest way to see what’s available? Get a free quote.
Extra coverage
You can also customize your Lemonade policy with optional add-ons like:
- Physical therapy: important for this active breed that can develop joint stress from their hunting background
- Visit fees
- Dental coverage
- Behavioral conditions
- End-of-life and remembrance
These coverages help take a bite out of pricey treatments, services, and vet visits that Basenjis often need.
Is pet insurance worth it for Basenjis?
Taking care of any medium breed gets expensive, and Basenjis can face costly breed-specific health issues throughout their 12 to 14-year lifespan. The good news? Lemonade pet parents are already saving serious money on vet bills.
Basenjis are particularly prone to joint problems, eye conditions, and kidney disorders, which makes insurance even more valuable.
Check out how much other Basenji parents have saved with pet insurance below. Your savings could be even higher.
Common Basenji health conditions
Basenjis are amazing dogs, but they’re predisposed to certain health conditions that can get expensive to treat. Here are some of the most common claims we see for them, along with typical treatment costs:
| Condition | What is it? | Average treatment cost |
|---|---|---|
| Hip Dysplasia | Malformed hip joint; pain and arthritis in back legs | $1,500–$6,000 |
| Fanconi Syndrome (nearest: Chronic GI Issues) | Ongoing vomiting/diarrhea; multiple vet visits | $500–$1,500 |
| Ear Infections | Chronic or severe ear infections | $300–$800 |
| Skin Allergies (Environmental/Food) | Persistent itching from food, fleas, or environment | $400–$1,500 |
| Obesity | Extra weight, leads to other health issues | $250–$800 |
| Pancreatitis | Inflammation of pancreas; vomiting, pain | $500–$2,500 |
| Anal Gland Issues | Problems with the glands near the anus | $350–$900 |
| Torn Knee Ligament (Cruciate Ligament Tear) | Torn ligament in the knee | $1,200–$8,500 |
| Blindness from Retinal Disease (PRA) | Inherited gradual vision loss | $300–$700 |
| Dental Disease (Tooth & Gum Problems) | Gum & tooth disease, possible extractions | $400–$1,500 |
As a hound breed, Basenjis face having a medium build with high energy and genetic predisposition to serious kidney problems, which is why early coverage is important to protect their health and your wallet.
How much does pet insurance for Basenjis cost?
Your Basenji’s premium depends on a few key factors: Their age, your location, and the coverages you choose. Medium breeds like Basenjis typically cost mid-range to insure due to their medium size and generally good health, though Fanconi syndrome can be expensive to manage.
Here’s what other Basenji parents typically pay for Lemonade coverage:
| Age | Average monthly premium |
|---|---|
| 1 year old | $30-$35 |
| 2 years old | $30-$35 |
| 3 years old | $30-$35 |
| 4 years old | $30-$35 |
| 5 years old | $35-$40 |
| 6 years old | $45-$50 |
| 7 years old | $50-$55 |
How can I find the best pet insurance for my Basenji?
While we might be biased, Lemonade was really designed with pet parents in mind, especially those with breeds like Basenjis that need comprehensive coverage for joint health, eye care, and kidney function monitoring.
Our customizable add-ons are perfect for Basenjis since you can tailor coverage for their specific risks like hip dysplasia and Fanconi syndrome.
Don’t believe us? Take a look at how we stack up against the competition.
Before we go…
Basenjis make incredible companions, but their high energy with unique personality requiring mental stimulation and kidney health monitoring can get expensive fast. Pet insurance helps you say “yes” to the best care without worrying about the vet bill, whether that’s treating kidney disease treatment, managing kidney conditions, or handling an emergency.
Ready to protect your Basenji? Get a personalized quote in as little as 90 seconds and see how affordable coverage can be for your Basenji.
Get to know your Basenji
Are Basenjis good with families and children?
Good with families but better with older children who understand their independent nature. Basenjis are loyal and affectionate with their family but can be aloof and don’t tolerate rough handling well from kids.
What does a Basenji's grooming schedule look like?
Weekly brushing and occasional baths. Their short coat is very low-maintenance with minimal shedding. They’re naturally clean dogs that groom themselves like cats. Regular nail trims and basic care keep them comfortable.
Are Basenjis suitable for first-time dog owners?
Not recommended for first-time owners. Basenjis are independent, intelligent escape artists with strong hunting instincts. They need experienced handlers who can provide secure fencing and understand their unique personality.
Are Basenjis easy to train?
Challenging to train because they’re intelligent but independent thinkers who prefer making their own decisions. Basenjis need patient, creative training methods and don’t respond well to repetitive or harsh approaches.
What activities do Basenjis usually enjoy?
Hiking, lure coursing, and independent exploration. They love activities that engage their hunting instincts, moderate exercise, and having space to roam. They’re natural athletes who enjoy mental challenges.
*Lemonade Insurance analyzed policy rates of accident and illness policies to calculate average pet insurance premiums as of October, 2025. This analysis is based on Lemonade’s internal data and is meant for illustrative purposes only; quotes may vary depending on individual circumstances and additional coverages selected.