foundation stock-service

Hovawart

10–14 year lifespan · large breed · 65–90 lbs

$44,500 – $61,000

Estimated 12-year lifetime cost of a Hovawart in California, excluding insurance

$6,800 First year
$4,000 Each year after
$500 Expected medical

For your breed and state, self-insuring is likely more cost-effective than paying premiums.

How much does a Hovawart cost per year?

Annual cost breakdown for a Hovawart in California. Ranges reflect typical low-to-high spending.

Food $1,200–$1,600
Routine Vet Care $750–$1,050
Preventatives $400–$550
Illness & Emergency Reserve $150–$200
Grooming $400–$550
Supplies & Gear $500–$650
$4,000
per year
Food$1,40035%
Routine Vet Care$90023%
Preventatives$45011%
Illness & Emergency Reserve$2005%
Grooming$50013%
Supplies & Gear$55014%

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What health problems do Hovawarts have?

Breed-specific conditions your Hovawart may face, ranked by expected cost impact.

Hip Dysplasia

●●○○ moderate Age 2–6
Probability 12%
Treatment range $50–$9,450

Hypothyroidism

●○○○ mild Age 3–8
Probability 8%
Treatment range $0–$200

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)

●●●● life-threatening Age 4–9
Probability 5%
Treatment range $0–$800

Risk tier: low. Total expected medical cost: $500 over the breed's lifetime.

Is pet insurance worth it for a Hovawart?

Over your dog's lifetime, you'll pay $8,000 in premiums. Expected uninsured medical costs: $0–$1,000.

Self-insure may be betterPets Best · 12-year projection
Best value

Pets Best

Monthly premium $55/mo
Annual premium $650/yr
Deductible $200
Reimbursement 90%
  • Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • Unlimited annual limit available

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MetLife

Monthly premium $85/mo
Annual premium $1,000/yr
Deductible $250
Reimbursement 100%
  • Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • Dental illness included
  • Unlimited annual limit available

Get a quote from MetLife

Trupanion

Monthly premium $80/mo
Annual premium $950/yr
Deductible $200
Reimbursement 90%
  • Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
  • Bilateral condition coverage (both sides)
  • Unlimited annual limit available
  • No orthopedic waiting period

Get a quote from Trupanion

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a Hovawart cost over its lifetime?

A Hovawart costs between $44,500 and $61,000 over its 10–14 year lifespan in California. The first year typically costs around $6,800 including supplies, training, and initial vet visits.

What are the most common Hovawart health problems?

The most common health issues for Hovawarts include Hip Dysplasia, Hypothyroidism, Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). Owners should budget for both preventive care and potential treatment costs.

Is pet insurance worth it for a Hovawart?

For your breed and state, self-insuring is likely more cost-effective than paying premiums. The Hovawart is a large breed with moderate health risks. Moderate hip and cardiac risks for a large breed. Insurance provides worthwhile coverage.

How much does Hovawart food cost per month?

Hovawart food costs typically range from $65 to $120 per month, with an average of $90. Costs vary based on food quality, brand, and your dog's specific dietary needs.

How much is Hovawart pet insurance per month?

Pet insurance for a Hovawart costs $35–$65 per month (average $48/mo). Premiums vary by your dog's age, location, chosen deductible, and reimbursement level.

Sources

Figures on this page are modeled estimates calibrated to published benchmarks (accessed 2026-07-21). Breed characteristics follow AKC breed standards. Full formula and inputs: our methodology.