Will Your Dog Increase Your Home Insurance Rates?

If you own a large dog, you know that most of them are big softies with hearts of gold. But even though your beloved family pet is nothing but loyal, the transgressions of a small percentage of certain breeds casts a shadow across large dogs everywhere.

You may have seen a tiny Chihuahua lash out aggressively towards a stranger. In fact, several small breeds of dogs have more aggressive tendencies than larger dogs, but their small frame rarely does much damage. Whereas a bite from a large, muscular dog can inflict massive injuries that require medical attention.

Many insurance providers consider owning certain breeds as a higher risk because of the liability associated with dog bites. Among the breeds on this list are Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Dobermans, German Shepherds, Great Danes, Akitas, Chows, Huskies, Malamutes and more. Of the nearly 5 million people who suffer dog bites every year, approximately 900,000 must seek medical treatment. And since insurance providers have a business to run, the statistics speak louder than your pooch’s sweet demeanor.

Each insurer has its own guidelines for handling these breeds. While some insurers may deny you coverage if you own a Doberman, other insurers may simply charge you a higher premium. How much higher will (again) depend on the insurer you select. Some insurance providers will evaluate each dog individually, taking into consideration its behavioral history and any claims associated with the canine.

Paying higher home insurance premiums just because you own a certain breed of dog is not something that most people look forward to. However, it’s better to inform your insurer of your pets upfront because any if you don’t, any future claims involving a dog bite may get denied.

Do you own a large dog? Our agency will search our network of insurance providers to find the policy that best meets your needs and budget.