Approximately 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs yearly, and the average cost of a dog bite claim is $44,760, according to the Insurance Information Institute.
Homeowners insurance usually covers dog bites under personal liability coverage. However, large dogs and certain breeds are restricted from coverage.
If you have a restricted dog breed, you need to inform your agent and see if an optional umbrella policy will cover your dog. Otherwise, you will need to purchase canine liability insurance.
Top 10 dog breeds excluded from homeowners insurance
Some insurance companies exclude large dogs and certain breeds from liability coverage, like pit bulls. Dogs known to be aggressive, trained attack dogs, unneutered male dogs, and dogs with a history of biting are usually excluded, according to American Family Insurance.
Everquote surveyed insurance companies and found these are the top 10 breeds most likely to be excluded from insurance policies:
1. Pit bull
2. Rottweiler
3. Chow chow
4. Presa Canario
5. Akita
6. Doberman Pinscher
7. Wolf hybrids
8. Mastiff
9. Wolf
10. German Shepherd
A restricted dog breed may increase your premiums
Having a restricted dog breed may increase your homeowners insurance premiums. This is especially true if you have had a dog bite or liability claim that resulted in a lawsuit.
Some carriers will even drop customers if their pet bites or injures someone. Some states have strict liability laws for dog bites. This means even if your dog was provoked, you are considered liable. If there is a lawsuit, you will be responsible for damages.
An umbrella policy can offer coverage if you have a restricted dog breed
American Family notes that even if you have a restricted dog breed, you may be able to get coverage from an umbrella liability policy. An umbrella policy is additional liability coverage that’s available as an add-on rider to your homeowners or renters insurance.
The cost varies by insurance provider and is based on the additional coverage amount you select. Your premium may be more expensive than someone who doesn’t have an excluded breed or large dog.
Canine liability insurance is also an option if you have a restricted breed
Canine liability insurance offers coverage if your dog bites or attacks someone. It’s another option if you have a restricted dog breed and cannot get an umbrella policy. It’s a separate policy that is helpful if your homeowners or renters insurance doesn’t offer coverage for your breed.
The cost varies based on the breed of your dog, size, your location, and whether your dog has bitten or attacked someone in the past. Other price factors include if your dog is properly vaccinated and if your dog has been previously deemed a “dangerous dog” by animal control.
If you have a restricted breed, you should shop around online and get quote comparisons. Be sure to inform the insurance company that you have a restricted breed and see if an umbrella policy will offer coverage. If not, you will need to purchase canine liability insurance.