Top dog claims from last summer: Common conditions and vet costs

Summer means longer walks, outdoor adventures and plenty of opportunities for dogs to enjoy the sunshine. But warmer weather can also bring health challenges, from seasonal allergies and ear infections to joint discomfort and unexpected veterinary visits.

While some health concerns may seem minor initially, the cost of diagnosis, treatment and ongoing care can quickly add up.

Using Petcover’s insurance data from last summer, we’ve explored some common health conditions affecting Australian dogs, their associated veterinary costs and why being prepared for unexpected expenses matters.

Jump to section

• What did common dog health conditions cost during summer 2026?
• Skin allergies: When a little itch becomes a bigger concern
• Arthritis and joint disease: More than an older dog’s problem
• Ear infections: A common problem with recurring costs
• Lumps: Why early investigation matters
• Why do veterinary costs vary so much?
• Are certain dog breeds more at risk?
• Everyday health conditions can lead to unexpected vet bills
• Preparing your dog for a healthy summer

What did common dog health conditions cost during last summer?

From itchy skin to unexpected lumps, everyday health concerns can sometimes lead to substantial veterinary expenses.

Petcover’s summer insurance data highlights the average and highest individual claim costs associated with four common canine health conditions.

Although treatment expenses vary depending on the severity of a condition, these figures demonstrate how quickly veterinary costs can increase, particularly when additional testing or ongoing care is required.

1. Skin allergies: When a little itch becomes a bigger concern

Average: $298 | Highest: $4,145

Itchy skin, excessive scratching and irritated paws are familiar problems for many dog owners, particularly during warmer months.

Summer can increase exposure to environmental allergens such as grass pollen, plants and insects. Dogs with allergic skin disease may experience redness, inflammation, recurring infections or persistent itching.

Some breeds, including French Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, Labradors and West Highland White Terriers, can be more susceptible to allergic skin conditions.

Why can skin allergies become expensive?

Although an initial consultation may be relatively straightforward, identifying the underlying cause and managing recurring symptoms can involve multiple veterinary visits.

Treatment may include skin examinations, diagnostic testing, prescription medications, medicated shampoos and ongoing allergy management.

For dogs with chronic allergies, symptoms can return throughout the year, creating repeated treatment expenses.

With individual costs reaching as high as $4,145 in Petcover’s summer data, even a seemingly simple skin concern can become a significant veterinary expense.

2. Arthritis and joint disease: More than an older dog’s problem

Average: $236 | Highest: $5,886

Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation, stiffness and discomfort in the joints. Although commonly associated with ageing dogs, joint problems can also affect younger animals due to genetics, developmental conditions or previous injuries.

During summer, increased outdoor activity may make existing mobility problems more noticeable, particularly in dogs that enjoy running, swimming or longer walks.

Large breeds such as Labradors, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers may be more susceptible to certain joint conditions. However, arthritis can affect dogs of all breeds and sizes.

Why can joint conditions become expensive?

Veterinary care may involve X-rays, pain management, anti-inflammatory medications, rehabilitation or specialist assessments.

Because arthritis is often a progressive condition, some dogs require ongoing treatment to maintain their comfort and mobility.

Petcover’s summer data for 2025-2026 recorded costs reaching $5,886, highlighting how managing joint conditions can involve expenses beyond the initial diagnosis.

3. Ear infections: A common problem with recurring costs

Average: $270 | Highest: $3,179

Ear infections can affect dogs at any time of year, but summer activities may introduce additional contributing factors.

Swimming, moisture trapped in the ears, grass seeds and underlying allergies can all contribute to ear problems.

Dogs with floppy ears, such as Cocker Spaniels and Basset Hounds, may be more prone to certain ear conditions due to their ear structure.

Common warning signs include head shaking, scratching around the ears, redness, unusual odours and discomfort when touched.

Why can ear infections become expensive?

Treatment often begins with a veterinary examination and ear medication. However, persistent or recurring infections may require laboratory testing, ear flushing, additional medications or investigations into an underlying cause.

The University of Melbourne’s Australian Veterinary Prescribing Guidelines highlight the importance of identifying underlying conditions in dogs experiencing chronic or recurring ear infections.

With veterinary-related claim costs reaching $3,179, persistent ear problems can lead to unexpected expenses, particularly when ongoing treatment is needed.

4. Lumps: Why early investigation matters

Average: $729 | Highest: $6,152

Discovering a new lump on your dog can be concerning. While many lumps are harmless, others may require further investigation to determine whether treatment is necessary.

Lumps can develop for several reasons, including fatty growths, cysts, inflammation, infections and tumours. They are not necessarily caused by summer conditions, but may be noticed during regular grooming, bathing or handling.

Some breeds, including Boxers and certain terriers, can be predisposed to particular types of skin growths.

Why can lumps become expensive?

A veterinary examination is often the first step, but identifying the type of lump may require a fine needle aspiration, laboratory analysis or biopsy.

If surgical removal is recommended, additional expenses may include anaesthesia, pathology testing, medication and follow-up appointments.

Of the conditions examined, lumps had the highest average claim cost at $729, while the highest individual amount reached $6,152.

These figures reinforce the importance of having new or changing lumps assessed by a veterinarian rather than waiting for them to become a larger concern.

Why do veterinary costs vary so much?

One noticeable finding from Petcover’s summer data is the difference between average treatment-related claim amounts and the highest recorded costs.

For example, the average amount associated with arthritis and joint disease was $236, yet the highest reached $5,886.

Several factors can influence the cost of veterinary treatment:

• Severity of the condition: More complex health concerns may require additional investigations or treatment.
• Diagnostic testing: Blood tests, imaging, biopsies and laboratory examinations can increase costs.
• Specialist care: Some conditions require referral to veterinary specialists.
• Repeat appointments: Recurring infections and chronic illnesses may involve several consultations.
• Long-term management: Conditions such as arthritis and allergies may require ongoing medication and monitoring.

Not every dog will experience substantial veterinary expenses. However, these figures demonstrate how quickly treatment costs can increase when additional care becomes necessary.

Are certain dog breeds more at risk?

Every dog can experience health problems, but breed characteristics, genetics, age and lifestyle can influence the likelihood of developing particular conditions.

For example, breeds with a history of allergic skin conditions may experience recurring itching and inflammation, while dogs with certain ear shapes may be more vulnerable to ear problems.

Similarly, larger breeds and dogs with inherited joint conditions may face an increased risk of mobility issues as they age.

Understanding your dog’s individual health risks can help you recognise symptoms earlier and discuss preventative care with your veterinarian.

It’s also important to remember that breed predispositions are not guarantees. A healthy dog without any previous medical problems can still develop an unexpected condition.

Everyday health conditions can lead to unexpected vet bills

One of the biggest takeaways from last summers data is that expensive veterinary care isn’t limited to unusual accidents or rare illnesses.

Skin allergies, ear infections, arthritis and lumps are all conditions that many Australian dog owners may encounter throughout their pet’s lifetime.

While some require only straightforward treatment, others can develop into more complicated health concerns that need ongoing attention.

Having a financial plan for veterinary expenses can help make these situations easier to manage.

Pet insurance is one way to prepare for unexpected eligible veterinary costs. With selected Petcover policies, customers can receive up to 100% back on eligible vet bills*, helping reduce the financial burden when their dog needs care.

Choosing suitable cover early can also help owners plan ahead, rather than waiting until an unexpected health concern arises.

Preparing your dog for a healthy summer

Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors with your dog, but recognising potential health concerns is an important part of keeping them comfortable and healthy.

Whether it’s monitoring itchy skin, checking ears after swimming, noticing changes in mobility or having an unfamiliar lump examined, small preventative steps can make a meaningful difference.

Petcover’s summer data reinforces a simple message: common health conditions can still lead to significant veterinary expenses.

Being aware of potential risks, seeking veterinary advice when needed and planning for unexpected treatment costs can help you focus on what matters most: enjoying more healthy, happy summers with your dog.

VCA Animal Hospitals – Atopic Dermatitis | University of Melbourne | VCA Animal Hospitals – Fine Need Aspiration