There are about 85 million dogs in America, and more homes are getting a furry friend every year. Dogs bring joy but also increase the risk in a home. If your dog bites someone, you could be legally responsible. Knowing what your homeowners insurance covers is key.
Every year, millions of dog bites happen, often to kids. These incidents can lead to big medical bills. In 2022, the average cost of a dog bite claim was around $64,555, with 17,597 claims filed.
Key Takeaways
- Dog ownership can significantly impact home insurance costs and coverage.
- Insurance companies consider certain dog breeds as higher risk, leading to potential denials, exclusions, or premium increases.
- Understanding your policy’s liability coverage for dog-related incidents is crucial.
- DNA testing can provide evidence of a dog’s breed to insurers.
- Canine liability insurance is an option to supplement homeowners coverage.
Will My Home Insurance Cover Me if I Have a Dog?
Having a dog means you need to know how your home insurance might help or not. Liability coverage on home insurance is there to protect you if you’re found responsible for injuries or damage to others. But, it might not cover you if your dog bites someone.
Liability Coverage and Dog Bites
Usually, liability coverage kicks in if someone gets bitten by your dog on your property or somewhere else. But, not all dogs are covered. If your dog is on a list of restricted breeds by your insurer, they might not accept your claim. Dogs like Akita, Pit Bull, Rottweiler, and others might not be covered because they’re seen as a higher risk.
Understanding Your Policy
It’s key to really look over your home insurance to see if your dog is covered before something happens. Some insurers won’t cover dog-related claims at all. Others might offer extra coverage or riders for pet liability. Knowing what your policy says can help you get ready for different situations and make sure you’re protected.
As of recent data, there were about 85 million dogs in America. In 2022, the average cost of dog bite claims was around $64,555, with 17,597 claims filed. In 2021, insurance companies paid an average of $49,025 for dog bite claims. This shows the financial risks for both insurers and dog owners.
Knowing what your insurer thinks about dog breeds and any rules they have is important. By understanding your policy and the risks, you can make smart choices to protect yourself, your family, and your pets.
Top Dog Breeds That Insurers Won’t Cover
Some dog breeds are seen as higher-risk by homeowners insurance companies. These breeds are often bigger, stronger, and may be more aggressive. This makes them a bigger liability for insurance companies. So, they might limit or refuse coverage for dog bites from these breeds.
Restricted Breed Lists
Common dog breeds that may face insurance restrictions include Akitas, Chow chows, Doberman pinschers, German shepherds, Huskies, Mastiffs, Pit bulls, Presa Canarios, Rottweilers, Staffordshire terriers, and Wolf hybrids. Insurers often have lists of restricted breeds. They might increase premiums or deny coverage for these dogs.
Insurance usually covers dogs not on the restricted list, but coverage can differ between insurers. Homeowners should check their policy details and breed-related exclusions with their insurance provider.
| Dog Breed | Prevalence in Restricted Breed Lists |
|---|---|
| Pit Bull | Very Common |
| Rottweiler | Very Common |
| German Shepherd | Common |
| Chow Chow | Common |
| Akita | Common |
| Doberman Pinscher | Common |
Homeowners with restricted breed dogs may find it hard to get insurance. But, they can look for different insurers or buy extra dog bite liability insurance from specialty companies.
What to Do if Your Insurer Won’t Cover Your Dog
If your current insurer won’t cover your dog or refuses to insure you because of your pet, there are other options. You can find coverage by thinking creatively and being persistent. Look for dog-friendly insurance providers to protect your family.
Consider training your dog for the Canine Good Citizen certification from the American Kennel Club (AKC). This shows your dog is well-behaved and might change an insurer’s mind about breed restrictions. It proves your dog is a calm, friendly pet, which could lead to coverage.
Also, look for insurers that don’t mind your dog’s breed. Companies like AIG, Chubb, Encompass, Hippo, Safeco, State Auto, State Farm, and Plymouth Rock offer coverage without breed bias. Comparing their quotes can help you find a good match for your family.
If all else fails, ask your current insurer to exclude your dog from the policy rather than canceling it. This might raise your premiums but keeps your home covered. You can then get separate liability insurance for your pet from a specialty provider.
Always be persistent and check all your options. With some research and effort, you can find a solution that covers your home and your dog.
Insurance Companies That Don’t Discriminate by Breed
When you own a dog, the breed can affect your home insurance. Luckily, some companies offer dog friendly home insurance without breed bias. They believe in covering all dogs, not just certain ones.
In many states, laws stop insurers from using breed to deny or raise rates. If you live in such a state and have a breed others won’t cover, you might find more options. Companies like Allstate, Amica, Chubb, Fireman’s Fund, Liberty Mutual, Massachusetts Fair plan, Nationwide, State Farm, and USAA are known for being more lenient on dog breeds.
These insurers that cover all dog breeds look at the dog’s behavior and history, not just its breed. They might see some breeds as higher risk. But, they’re often willing to cover them with extra training or liability coverage.
“We don’t discriminate against specific dog breeds. Our focus is on the individual dog’s temperament and behavior, not just the breed.”
– spokesperson for Amica Mutual Insurance
If you’re a dog owner looking for good home insurance, check out these dog friendly home insurance companies. Choosing one that doesn’t judge by breed means your dog will be protected. You won’t face unfair price hikes or exclusions.
How Much Does a Dog Add to Home Insurance?
Having a dog can change how much you pay for home insurance. Insurance companies look at the dog’s breed, size, and past behavior when setting rates. This means owning a dog can affect your insurance costs.
Impact on Rates
Dog bites can lead to high medical bills and legal costs. The Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) says the average cost for dog bite claims in 2021 was $49,025. If your dog bites someone and your insurance covers it, your home insurance might go up.
The type of dog you have, its history of biting, and any past claims can change your insurance rates. Some dogs, like Pit bulls, Rottweilers, German shepherds, Cane corsos, and Wolf hybrids, are seen as more aggressive. This can make your insurance premiums go up.
| Dog Breed | Average Home Insurance Premium Increase |
|---|---|
| Pit Bull | 20-30% |
| Rottweiler | 15-25% |
| German Shepherd | 10-20% |
| Cane Corso | 18-28% |
| Wolf Hybrid | 25-35% |
Insurance companies also look at the dog’s size, personality, and past incidents when setting rates for dog owners.
“Owners of dogs considered aggressive breeds can sometimes add these dogs to their homeowners insurance policies after completing a training course, such as the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen Test.”
Knowing what affects your home insurance rates for dogs can help you lower your costs. You can take steps to reduce the impact of your dog on your insurance.
Failing to Disclose Your Dog to the Insurer
Not telling your home insurer about your dog can lead to big problems. Leaving out or lying about your pet can cause serious money and legal issues. If you don’t tell the truth about your pet, you might not get claims paid, could lose your policy, and could be personally liable if something happens.
Many homeowners insurance policies have rules about dogs. Insurers might not cover or charge more for dogs seen as high-risk, like German shepherds, pit bulls, and Rottweilers. If your dog bites someone and you don’t have coverage, the insurer might not pay for the medical bills or legal fees.
In 2021, dog bite claims cost insurers about $50,000 each on average. Not telling your insurer about your pet can lead to big financial losses. It’s important to tell them about your dog’s breed and any past aggression to make sure you’re covered and safe from legal trouble.
A recent court case shows why it’s key to tell about your dogs. The owners didn’t mention two bull mastiffs, and the court said the insurer could cancel the policy because of this lie. This shows that not telling about your dogs can mean no claim pay-out and losing your insurance.
“Failing to disclose your dog to your insurer is a material misrepresentation that can have serious consequences. It’s crucial to be upfront about your pet to ensure your coverage meets your needs and protects you from potential liabilities.”
Claims stay on a database for five to seven years, and many claims can make getting insurance hard or limit your coverage. Claims about dog bites and other liability issues can really affect your insurance rates and if you can even get coverage.
In short, telling the truth about your pet is very important. Telling your insurer about your dog’s breed and any aggression history is key to keeping full coverage and avoiding financial and legal problems. Being honest with your insurer helps protect you and your family.
Insuring Mixed-Breed Dogs
Insuring your dog can be tricky, especially if it’s a mix of different breeds. Many home insurance companies don’t like certain dog breeds because they think they’re more likely to bite people. This makes it hard for owners of mixed-breed dogs to get the right coverage.
If your mixed-breed dog has a breed that insurers don’t like, like Pit bulls or German Shepherds, you might not get coverage. Even if your dog has never been aggressive, insurers might still see it as a risk. And if your dog has bitten someone before, you might not be able to insure it at all.
It’s best to tell the truth about your pet’s breed and history when you apply for insurance. Lying about your dog could lead to your claim being denied if something happens. Being honest helps you find a policy that covers you and your dog.
| Common Restricted Breeds | Reasons for Restrictions |
|---|---|
| Pit Bull Terriers | Known for their strength and potential aggression |
| Rottweilers | Often perceived as intimidating and potentially dangerous |
| German Shepherds | Historically used as guard dogs, which can make them seem more aggressive |
| Chow Chows | Renowned for their independent and sometimes aloof temperament |
| Akitas | Powerful and territorial breeds that may be perceived as a liability risk |
It can be tough to insure mixed-breed dogs, but being a responsible owner and training your pet well can help. Programs like the AKC Canine Good Citizen Test show your dog is well-behaved. This might make it easier to get insurance.
Being honest, looking at different insurance options, and focusing on your pet’s health can help you handle the challenges of insuring mixed-breed dogs. Your furry friend should have the same protection as any family member.
Policy Cancellation for Restricted Dog Breeds
Owning a dog can affect your home insurance. Insurers can cancel your coverage if you have a dog on their restricted list. These breeds are seen as higher risks because they might bite or damage property.
If you don’t tell your insurer about a restricted breed dog when you apply or renew your policy, they can cancel it. They can also cancel if they find out your dog has bitten or acted aggressively and you didn’t tell them.
Having a restricted breed dog comes with big risks. In 2021, dog bites cost an average of $49,025 each, with over 17,900 claims. This led to more than $882 million in payouts. Insurers try to avoid these costs by not covering certain breeds.
| Top Restricted Dog Breeds |
|---|
| Doberman Pinscher |
| Pit Bull |
| Rottweiler |
| Chow Chow |
| Wolf Dogs and Hybrids |
| Presa Canario (Canary Dog) |
| Akita |
| German Shepherd |
| Husky |
| Mastiff |
| Alaskan Malamute |
Some states like Connecticut, Michigan, Nevada, New York, and Pennsylvania don’t let insurers discriminate based on breed. But, many insurers still have lists of restricted breeds. If you have one of these dogs, you might find it hard to get insurance. If you don’t tell your insurer about your dog, they could cancel your policy.
If your policy gets canceled because of your dog’s breed, look for a new insurer. Some insurers might cover your pet if they look at each case carefully. Others might offer special policies or riders for liability. Being honest about your dog and taking steps to reduce risks can help you find a good insurance plan.
how much does a dog add to home insurance
Having a dog can change how much you pay for home insurance. In 2022, dog bite claims averaged about $64,555, with 17,597 claims. The average cost for insurance to pay out for dog bites in 2021 was $49,025. If your dog bites someone and your insurance covers it, your premiums might go up.
The amount a dog adds to your insurance depends on many things. This includes the breed, its bite history, and any past claims. Some breeds like pit bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds are seen as more aggressive. They might lead to higher premiums or even no coverage.
| Dog Breed | Average Cost of Insuring |
|---|---|
| Labrador Retriever | $75 – $100 per year |
| Golden Retriever | $80 – $110 per year |
| Pit Bull | $100 – $150 per year |
| Rottweiler | $125 – $175 per year |
| German Shepherd | $90 – $130 per year |
The cost to insure a dog can vary a lot. Your actual premium will depend on your insurance company, where you live, and your policy details. Some insurers might ask for extra liability coverage or special policies for your dog.
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In summary, owning a dog can increase your home insurance costs. But, by telling your insurer about your dog, you can make sure you have the right coverage. This protects you and your loved ones.
Notifying Your Insurance Agent About a New Dog
When you welcome a new dog into your home, make sure to update your homeowners insurance. If you don’t tell your insurance about your new dog, it could lead to big problems. For example, if your dog hurts someone at your house, you could face serious issues.
It’s crucial to think about how a new pet might affect your home insurance rates. This is something you should pay close attention to.
Premium Increases
Getting a dog might raise your homeowners insurance costs. This is especially true if your dog is seen as “high-risk” by your insurance company. Dogs like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds often cost more because they might be more aggressive.
Telling your agent about your new dog early can help you avoid higher premiums. This way, you can make sure your insurance is still right for you.
The cost of pet insurance for dogs like Labradors and Golden Retrievers can be between $37.50 and $38.44 a month. But, the price can change based on your dog’s age, health, and where you live. Keeping up with policy changes helps you make smart choices about your coverage and budget.
Being a responsible pet owner means keeping your insurance company updated. Telling them about your new dog can prevent surprises later and make sure your insurance still fits your needs.
Dog Breeds That May Affect Homeowners Insurance
Some dog breeds can change how much you pay for homeowners insurance. Experts say breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Doberman Pinschers can lead to higher costs or even no coverage. Other breeds like Siberian Huskies, Akitas, and Great Danes are also on this list.
In 2022, there were 17,597 dog bite claims, costing about $64,555 each on average. The year before, the average cost was $49,025 per claim. This shows why insurers might be cautious with certain dog breeds.
| Dog Breed | Percentage of Banned Lists |
|---|---|
| Doberman Pinscher | 100% |
| Pit Bull | 100% |
| Rottweiler | 100% |
| Chow Chow | 95% |
| Wolf Dogs and Wolf Hybrids | 93% |
| Presa Canario (Canary Dog) | 86% |
| Akita | 79% |
| German Shepherd | 45% |
| Husky | 38% |
| Mastiff | 29% |
Each insurance company has its own list of breeds they don’t cover. Some might be okay with certain breeds more than others. It’s key to talk to your insurance about your dog to know how it might affect your coverage and rates.
“In extreme cases, an insurance claim for a dog bite could add up to hundreds of thousands of dollars.”
High-Risk Dog Breeds and Insurance Outcomes
As a pet owner, the breed of your dog can affect your homeowners insurance. Some dog breeds are seen as “high-risk” or “restricted.” This can lead to different outcomes for homeowners.
Denial of Coverage
Some insurance companies won’t cover homes with certain high-risk dog breeds. This includes Akitas, Alaskan Malamutes, and others. They see these breeds as more likely to cause problems.
Exclusions
Even if you get coverage, there might be exclusions. These exclusions mean damages or injuries from your dog won’t be covered. You could end up paying for all damages yourself.
Premium Hikes
Homeowners with these breeds might pay more for insurance. Insurance companies charge extra to cover the risk. This is because these dogs might be more likely to cause claims.
Dealing with homeowners insurance and high-risk dog breeds takes effort. It’s important to talk to insurers and understand the risks. This way, you can make better choices and protect your insurance.
The American Veterinary Medical Association says nearly one in five dog bites needs medical help. This shows how important it is to be responsible and have good insurance.
Options When Denied Coverage for Your Dog
If you’ve been denied homeowners insurance because of your dog’s breed, don’t worry. You have many alternatives to consider. These options could help you get the protection you need.
Shopping for Insurers
One option is to look for different insurance companies. Breed restrictions can change a lot between companies. So, what one insurer won’t cover, another might be okay with. Some insurers known for being more dog-friendly include Allstate, Amica, Chubb, Fireman’s Fund, Liberty Mutual, Massachusetts Fair plan, Nationwide, State Farm, and.
DNA Testing
If your dog’s breed is unclear, you can try DNA testing to find out. This is great if your dog is a mix of breeds, some of which might be restricted. Showing this info to your insurer might help them change their mind and approve your application.
Canine Liability Insurance
Another option is to get a separate canine liability insurance policy. These plans cover any incidents or injuries your dog causes, no matter their breed. This can give you the protection you need if regular insurers won’t cover your pet.
By looking into these options, you can find ways to get insurance for your dog, even if they’re a restricted breed. With some effort and research, you can make sure your furry friend is protected.
Conclusion
Dogs can be a big part of the family, but they also increase the risk for homeowners insurance. Some breeds like the American Pit Bull Terrier, Cane Corso, Great Dane, Siberian Husky, and Rottweiler are seen as high-risk. Insurance companies might not cover them or might charge more because of their potential to cause serious injuries.
Homeowners should always tell the truth about their pets when getting or renewing insurance. This helps avoid problems with coverage later on. Knowing how dogs affect home insurance helps homeowners make smart choices to protect themselves. They should know about the possible higher premiums, the need for liability coverage, and breed-specific exclusions.
Even though dogs bring a lot of joy, homeowners need to think about insurance when they have pets. By staying informed and taking action, homeowners can make sure they have the right coverage. This way, they can protect their homes and families. And they can also give their dogs a loving and responsible home.
