The liability portion of your homeowner’s insurance covers your legal responsibilities for any accidents and/or loss occurring on your property, including injuries resulting from bites by your dog. For this reason, man’s best friend may not be your insurance company’s idea of a loyal companion if you own a Rottweiler, Pit Bull, Doberman, German shepherd, Akita, Chow Chow, wolf hybrid or Presa/Dogo Canarios. Ownership of one of these eight breeds, along with any other your insurance company deems aggressive and high risk, can mean the rejection of your homeowner’s application or cancellation of an existing policy.
Illegal and discriminatory? Unfortunately, no. Insurance companies can exclude anything they want from a policy. The Insurance Information Institute reports that dog bites account for one-third of all homeowner insurance liability claims, costing the industry $413 million in 2010. As a result, many insurance companies have opted to exclude those breeds identified as having been involved in the greatest incidences of dog bites.
Beware of Restrictions
No one is advocating that you get rid of your beloved family pet if your dog is among the eight high-risk breeds. You should keep in mind, however, that insurance companies have misrepresentation clauses written into their policies. If you haven’t revealed you own one of these breeds and then file a claim for any reason, it may be denied or your policy cancelled.
You Have Options
If you do have one of these breeds, shop around for an insurance company that will provide liability coverage for your dog. Contact the office of your state insurance commissioner for a list of insurance companies doing business in your state. In general, large companies like State Farm and Progressive have no breed restrictions, though you might pay a higher premium.
Restrictions vary by state, so check with your insurance company to see if they make allowances or give discounts if you have taken such precautions as the AKC’s Canine Good Citizen obedience training, or if you have a fenced-in yard. The AKC also advises that you visit dog forums for the type of dog you own to see if members recommend an insurance company. As a last resort, consider buying a separate liability policy or rider to your existing policy that specifically covers your dog.
In 2010, the average cost of a dog-bite claim was $26,166. It makes sense to assure liability coverage for your pet.
Source: Insurance Providers