Dogs are a very important part of most modern day families. They can be considered children in several households. There are even day spas for dogs now. There’s no question that owning a dog is the standard. However, many people fail to realize that their homeowner insurance policies can be affected by owning a dog. Yes, that beautiful animal that cherish so dearly can also cost you more than just dog food and leashes. Did you know that the specific breed of a dog can cause increased rates or complete coverage denial on your homeowners policy?
Pit bulls, Doberman Pinschers, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Chows, Great Danes, Akitas, Siberian Huskies and Wolf Hybrids are just a few of the dog breeds that may cause insurance companies to increase rates, deny coverage, or exclude from policies. Even just a mix of these breeds can often times be a problem for your insurance company. The risks are typically determined by the breeds reputation, the frequency of dog bites by that specific breed, and whether the dog is large and capable of causing damage.
If your insurance company decides to exclude your pet from your policy or penalize you with a steep increase in your premiums, there are several options to consider. By just doing a little research, you can pointed in the direction of an insurance company willing to give your pet a chance. Call your local humane society or contact your state insurance commissioner for a list of dog friendly insurers. You can also consider an umbrella policy that can cover what your insurance company refuses to. This is a simple and fast route. One additional option is to call a specialized dog liability insurance company. This is especially helpful if your animal has a history of bad behavior. They can write policies to cover your pet that other companies are not willing to do.
Please do not be discouraged from owning any of these breeds. All animals deserve loving homes. Sometimes the breeds that most are afraid of turn out to be the best pets. Just be sure to call your insurance agent and get all of the details. Make sure to review your policy closely as some companies try to exclude dog bite claims or severely limit claim amounts. Ask if there are any ways to make your pet insurable? A dog obedience class can make all the difference or get you the break you deserve.
