Which breeds of dogs affect homeowners insurance?

Owning a dog can bring much joy and companionship to a home, but it can also cause problems when it comes to homeowners insurance. Certain breeds of dogs are considered high risk, and owning one of these breeds can negatively impact your homeowners insurance policy. The specific breeds that affect insurance policies vary depending on the company, but some of the most commonly restricted breeds include pit bulls, Rottweilers, Doberman pinschers, chows, German shepherds, Akitas, Siberian huskies, Alaskan malamutes, and wolf-dog hybrids.

Why do some dog breeds impact insurance?

Insurance companies view certain breeds of dogs as high risk because they have a reputation for being aggressive and causing injuries. If a dog that is considered high risk bites someone, the homeowner may be held liable for the damages. This liability can result in expensive medical bills and legal fees, which is why insurance companies are wary of insuring homes with these breeds of dogs. In some cases, insurance companies may refuse to provide coverage at all, while in others they may charge higher premiums or require additional liability coverage.

How does insurance view dog breeds?

Insurance companies view dog breeds differently depending on the breed’s history and reputation. Breeds that are known for being aggressive or having a high likelihood of biting are viewed as high risk and can negatively impact insurance policies. On the other hand, breeds that are known for being gentle and friendly are not usually viewed as high risk and may not impact insurance policies at all. Insurance companies may also consider the individual dog’s behavior and training when determining whether to provide coverage.

Pit bulls and insurance policies

Pit bulls are one of the most commonly restricted breeds when it comes to homeowners insurance. Insurance companies view pit bulls as high risk due to their history of being bred for fighting and their reputation for aggression. Some insurance companies may refuse to cover homes with pit bulls altogether, while others may require additional liability coverage or charge higher premiums.

Rottweilers and insurance policies

Rottweilers are another breed that is commonly restricted by insurance companies. Rottweilers are known for being strong and protective, which can sometimes be interpreted as aggression. Insurance companies may view Rottweilers as high risk due to their size and strength, and may require additional liability coverage or charge higher premiums.

Doberman pinschers and insurance policies

Doberman pinschers are also considered high risk by insurance companies due to their reputation for being aggressive. Dobermans were originally bred as guard dogs, which can sometimes lead to protective behavior that is interpreted as aggression. Insurance companies may require additional liability coverage or charge higher premiums for homes with Doberman pinschers.

Chows and insurance policies

Chows are another breed that is commonly restricted by insurance companies. Chows have a reputation for being protective of their owners and their territory, which can sometimes lead to aggressive behavior. Insurance companies may require additional liability coverage or charge higher premiums for homes with chows.

German shepherds and insurance policies

German shepherds are known for being loyal and protective, but they are also considered high risk by insurance companies. German shepherds can be trained to be aggressive, which can make them a liability for homeowners. Insurance companies may require additional liability coverage or charge higher premiums for homes with German shepherds.

Akitas and insurance policies

Akitas are another breed that is commonly restricted by insurance companies. Akitas have a reputation for being loyal and protective, but can also be aggressive towards strangers and other animals. Insurance companies may require additional liability coverage or charge higher premiums for homes with Akitas.

Siberian huskies and insurance policies

Siberian huskies are not typically viewed as high risk by insurance companies, but they can still impact insurance policies. Siberian huskies are known for being energetic and curious, which can sometimes lead to destructive behavior. Insurance companies may require additional liability coverage or charge higher premiums for homes with Siberian huskies.

Alaskan malamutes and insurance policies

Alaskan malamutes are another breed that is not typically viewed as high risk by insurance companies, but can still impact insurance policies. Alaskan malamutes are known for being independent and strong-willed, which can lead to destructive behavior if they are not properly trained. Insurance companies may require additional liability coverage or charge higher premiums for homes with Alaskan malamutes.

Wolf-dog hybrids and insurance policies

Wolf-dog hybrids are considered high risk by insurance companies due to their unpredictable behavior. Wolf-dog hybrids are a mix of domesticated dogs and wild wolves, which can lead to aggressive behavior and a higher risk of injury. Insurance companies may refuse to cover homes with wolf-dog hybrids altogether, or they may require additional liability coverage or charge higher premiums.