Head-to-Head
AKC vs ASPCA
Side-by-side comparison of coverage, pricing, waiting periods, and overall value.
Coverage comparison
| Feature | AKC | ASPCA |
|---|---|---|
| Hereditary | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Congenital | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Bilateral | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Dental | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Behavioral | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Prescription | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Alternative Therapies | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Exam Fees | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
Pricing comparison
| Dog type | AKC | ASPCA |
|---|---|---|
| Small (young) | $22–$48/mo | $25–$50/mo |
| Medium (young) | $30–$62/mo | $35–$65/mo |
| Large (young) | $40–$82/mo | $45–$85/mo |
| Brachycephalic | $48–$95/mo | $50–$95/mo |
| Large (senior) | $58–$120/mo | $60–$120/mo |
Plan flexibility
| Option | AKC | ASPCA |
|---|---|---|
| Deductibles | $100, $200, $250, $500 | $100, $250, $500 |
| Reimbursement | 70%, 80%, 90% | 70%, 80%, 90% |
| Annual limits | $2500, $5000, $10000, $15000, Unlimited | $5000, $10000, Unlimited |
Waiting periods
| Type | AKC | ASPCA |
|---|---|---|
| Accidents | 14 days | 14 days |
| Illness | 14 days | 14 days |
| Orthopedic | 12mo | None |
Strengths & weaknesses
AKC
✓ Breed-specific expertise from AKC partnership
✓ Low starting annual limit ($2500) for budget plans
✓ Hereditary and congenital conditions covered
✓ No upper age limit
✓ Available in all 50 states
✗ 12-month orthopedic waiting period
✗ No dental coverage
✗ No alternative therapy coverage
✗ No exam fee coverage
✗ Small multi-pet discount
ASPCA
✓ Optional preventive care wellness plan
✓ Behavioral coverage included
✓ No upper age limit for enrollment
✓ Comprehensive coverage including dental illness
✓ Backed by trusted ASPCA brand
✗ 14-day accident waiting period
✗ 6-month cruciate ligament wait
✗ Underwritten by Crum & Forster not ASPCA directly
✗ Wellness add-on costs extra
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, AKC or ASPCA?
ASPCA has a higher overall rating. AKC scores 3.9/5 while ASPCA scores 4.2/5. The best choice depends on your dog's breed, age, and your coverage priorities.
How much does AKC cost vs ASPCA?
For a medium-sized young dog, AKC costs $30–$62/month while ASPCA costs $35–$65/month. AKC is generally more affordable.
Which has better coverage, AKC or ASPCA?
Both providers cover core accident and illness expenses. AKC processes claims in 12 days on average, while ASPCA takes 10 days. Review the coverage table above for detailed feature-by-feature differences.
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