Find Homeowner Insurance That Doesn’t Discriminate Against Your Dog
When you own a property, homeowner insurance is an inevitable expense. And unfortunately for dog lovers, owning a dog, especially a particular breed, can add value. Here’s why: Dog-related injuries cost insurers $ 797 million in 2019, and dog bite claims are on the rise, according to the Insurance Information Institute.
To minimize the risk, insurance companies may charge higher fees for certain dog breeds or refuse to cover them altogether. However, if you have a “high risk” breed, you still have options. Here’s what you need to know:
Homeowners insurance covers dog bites
Homeowners ‘and renters’ policies generally apply to dog bites – unless you have a prohibited dog breed – within your responsibility. Liability limits are usually between $ 100,000 and $ 300,000, and if your dog’s bite is worth more than your limit, you will have to pay for the rest. (This is a good reason to buy an umbrella personal liability policy .)
Less coverage for high risk dog breeds
Insurance companies are tracking which dog breeds have been linked to the attacks – and potential insurance claims – so companies can adjust their premiums to reflect that risk, Money says . According to the report, most companies do not insure the following dog breeds:
- Chow Chow
- Doberman pinscher
- German shepherds
- Pit bulls and staffordshire terriers
- Presa Canarios
- Rottweilers
Akitas, Alaskan Malamutes, Great Danes, Siberian Huskies, and wolf hybrids are also unpopular breeds among homeowner’s insurance companies.
How to find an insurer who will not discriminate
If you have one of the “high risk” dog breeds or are willing to adopt one, the good news is that not all companies will discriminate. In fact, some insurance companies are known for their leniency.
The state farm is one example. According to the company’s website , “any dog can bite, regardless of breed,” and State Farm will not ask about your dog’s breed when insuring homeowners or renters.
ValuePenguin advises that you can also get coverage through companies such as USAA or Einhorn Insurance, but those insurers may charge more if you have a high-risk dog breed.
Here’s some more good news: If you live in Pennsylvania or Michigan , it is illegal to discriminate against your dog breed by homeowner or renter insurance. Other states, such as Maryland, have similar laws.
However, there is no guarantee that the company will not cancel your policy in the future. Any insurance company can deny coverage based on your dog’s past or future behavior.