Homeowners insurance typically provides Liability coverage for the homeowner if their dog bites or attacks someone, but some insurance providers have restrictions or higher premiums based on the breed of dog you own. This is because certain breeds are statistically more likely to cause injury or damage.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, the number of dog bite claims nationwide increased from 17,597 in 2022 to 19,062 in 2023 —an 8.3 percent increase, with the average cost per claim being $58,545.
Insurance providers may require additional information about your dog, such as its breed, history of aggression, training, and whether it's been spayed or neutered. In some cases, they may even require you to sign liability waivers or exclude coverage for dog-related incidents involving certain breeds.
Breeds commonly associated with higher insurance premiums or restrictions include:
- Pit Bulls,
- Rottweilers,
- German Shepherds,
- Doberman Pinschers,
- and others with a history of aggression.
It's essential to check with your insurance provider to understand their specific policies regarding dog breeds and how they might impact your coverage and premiums. If you own a breed that's considered high-risk, you may need to shop around for specialized coverage or take additional precautions to mitigate the risk, such as obedience training or securing your property with fencing.
Source: “Spotlight On: Dog Bite Liability” Insurance Information Institute. https://www.iii.org/article/spotlight-on-dog-bite-liability. Accessed May 10, 2024.
This information is provided solely as an insurance risk management tool. It is provided with the understanding that the member insurance companies of the Utica National Insurance Group are not providing legal advice, or any other professional services or advice. Utica shall have no liability to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damages alleged to have been caused, directly or indirectly, by the use of this information. You are encouraged to consult an attorney or other professional for advice on these issues.
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