Which dog breeds are most often banned by home insurance companies? Americans have an undeniable love for dogs, with almost 90 million of them living in households across the country, and that number keeps rising each year. While dogs make wonderful companions, they also bring some risks. Dog bites are a normal occurrence, and if your dog is involved, you may have to pay for it.
That’s why it’s essential to understand what your homeowners insurance covers. Some policies may allow you to file a claim for a dog bite, but not all do, so it’s crucial to know the details. Understanding which dog breeds are banned by homeowners insurance companies can guide your choice of insurer and help you navigate your options if you own a breed that’s on the list.
Dog Breeds Most Often Banned by Homeowners Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often keep their breed bans under wraps, which can make choosing the right insurer tricky. Based on our review of over 40 home insurance companies nationwide, here are the 12 dog breeds most commonly banned:
- Doberman Pinscher
- Pit Bull
- Rottweiler
- Chow Chow
- Wolf dogs and hybrids
- Presa Canario
- Akita
- German Shepherd
- Husky
- Mastiff
- Alaskan Malamute
The term “pit bull” typically covers several Bull Terrier breeds and their mixes. These include American Bull Terriers, Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers.
Why Do Some Insurance Companies Deny Certain Breeds?
Some insurance companies deny coverage for certain dog breeds due to the risk they pose. In 2021 alone, 17,989 dog bite claims led to over $882 million in payouts by home insurance companies.
These breeds have a very high number of bite claims, so most insurers aim to reduce costly payouts. It’s similar to insurers requiring a self-latching gate for pool owners. Taking steps to reduce risk lowers potential exposure for both the homeowner and the insurer.
Although certain insurers check a dog’s personal behavior and bite history, many choose to implement blanket bans on breeds considered more likely to bite. Unfortunately, these blanket bans don’t account for dogs that are trained as assistance, search and rescue, or therapy animals, notes PetPlace.
Is Dog Breed Discrimination Legal?
Yes, dog breed discrimination is considered legal in most states. However, some states have passed laws to limit or stop insurance companies from using breed discrimination. In certain states, while breed discrimination may be restricted, other rules might apply, such as requiring a minimum amount of liability insurance if you own a specific breed.
States that have either limited or banned breed discrimination include:
- Connecticut
- Michigan
- Nevada
- New York
- Pennsylvania
Not only can insurance companies enforce breed-specific rules, but local cities and counties can also ban certain breeds. For example, in Prince George’s County, Maryland, it’s illegal to own a pit bull. Even if your insurance company doesn’t ban dog breeds, they might deny a liability claim if you’re found legally responsible for owning a banned breed in your area.
When Are Dogs Not Covered by Homeowners Insurance?
Dogs might not be covered by homeowners insurance for reasons beyond just breed bans. If a dog, regardless of breed, has a history of biting or causing property damage, coverage can be affected.
• Biting history
If your dog has bitten someone before, your insurance company might ask you to sign a liability waiver before offering a homeowners policy. This could result in the dog being excluded from liability coverage, meaning any legal or medical expenses related to a future bite wouldn’t be covered. Owning a dog with a history of biting might also lead to the insurer denying coverage or refusing to renew your policy.
If your dog bites you or someone else in your household, your homeowners insurance won’t cover the medical bills, as personal liability coverage under a home policy only applies to injuries or damages to others, not people living in the home.
• Property damage
Homeowners insurance won’t cover damage your dog causes to your own home, belongings, or other structures on your property. So, if your dog tears up your clothes, chews on the drywall, or ruins the carpets, the cost to fix or replace these items won’t be reimbursed.
Additionally, if your dog is on the insurer’s banned breed list, the company may not cover damage your dog causes to someone else’s property.
What Do I Do If My Insurer Won’t Cover My Dog?
If your insurer won’t cover your dog, there are certain options available for you. You can ask about exceptions, shop around, or consider alternative insurance.
• Ask about exceptions
While some insurance companies have strict breed bans, others might evaluate your dog individually. You can ask if providing proof of your dog’s good behavior, like letters from foster parents, neighbors, or your vet, could help.
The insurer might ask you to take certain steps, such as getting your dog trained or securing your yard, before agreeing to cover your dog. If your pet is certified as a service or therapy dog, it is advisable that you inform your insurance carrier. These certifications show your dog is well-controlled and less likely to cause issues.
• Shop around
Not every home insurance company has dog breed restrictions. By shopping around, you might find an insurer that will cover your dog’s breed or has fewer pet restrictions. Be upfront about owning a dog and ask if there are any reasons the company might exclude them from coverage.
Keep in mind that some insurers might charge higher premiums based on your dog’s breed. Shopping around will help you find the best coverage and price that fits your budget and situation perfectly.
