Do Chronic Dog Issues Dominate 2026’s Most Common and Costly Pet Issues Expensive) Pet Health Problems?

For the 15th year in a row, Nationwide—yes, the insurance guys— is taking a close look at what’s really sending pets to the veterinarian—and the findings may be more relevant to pet families than ever.

Each year, millions of dogs and cats need veterinary care, but what’s behind those visits? By analyzing more than 3.3 million insurance claims from over one million insured pets, Nationwide has identified the most common health issues affecting pets today—many of which can quietly impact both daily routines and long-term household budgets.

One trend stands out clearly this year: the majority of top conditions for both dogs and cats are chronic. These aren’t one-time emergencies—they’re ongoing health challenges that often require long-term care, consistent monitoring, and sustained financial planning.

“Each year, these findings remind us just how much of our pets’ health is shaped by ongoing, chronic conditions,” said Dr. Emily Tincher, Chief Veterinary Officer at Nationwide. “While not every illness can be prevented, pet families have real power when they understand their pet’s unique risks and catch early changes in behavior or health. Our goal is to give pet parents the tools and knowledge they need to support their pets through every stage of life.”

Dog trends: Chronic conditions continue to dominate

Skin allergies hold the top spot for the 15th consecutive year, reinforcing how common—and persistent—this issue is among dogs. In fact, the top nine conditions remain unchanged from last year, suggesting stable but widespread health patterns across the U.S. dog population.

Seizures make their first appearance in the top 10, closely followed by kidney disease and cranial cruciate ligament injuries. Overall, six of the top ten conditions are chronic, meaning many dog owners are managing long-term care needs rather than isolated incidents.

Helping pet families stay ahead

While not every condition can be avoided, early awareness can make a meaningful difference. Understanding your pet’s risk factors and recognizing subtle changes in behavior or health can help catch issues sooner and improve outcomes.

To support pet owners, Nationwide’s Pet HealthZone offers free, accessible resources covering more than 100 dog breeds and 11 cat breeds, giving families practical guidance for long-term care.

Pet insurance can also help manage the financial side of ongoing care. Many costs associated with diagnosing and treating common conditions may be eligible for reimbursement, depending on coverage. However, it’s important to enroll before symptoms appear, as pre-existing conditions are typically excluded.