Challenges Of Homeowner Insurance and Dogs

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.

Challenges Of Homeowner Insurance and Dogs

Homeowner’s insurance is designed to protect homeowners against unexpected events such as natural disasters, theft, and liability claims. However, owning a dog can present some challenges when it comes to obtaining and maintaining homeowner’s insurance.

One of the primary challenges of homeowner’s insurance and dogs is liability. If a dog bites someone on your property or off, the resulting medical expenses and legal fees can be significant. Some insurance companies have strict breed restrictions and may not provide coverage for certain breeds known for being aggressive, such as pit bulls, Rottweilers, and Doberman Pinschers. Other insurance companies may require a higher premium or a separate liability policy to cover dog-related incidents.

Another challenge is damage caused by dogs. Dogs can cause damage to a home in a variety of ways, including chewing on furniture, scratching walls or floors, and digging up the yard. While some policies may provide coverage for this type of damage, others may exclude it or require a higher premium for coverage.

Additionally, homeowner’s insurance policies typically have limits on certain types of coverage. For example, some policies may have limits on jewelry or artwork coverage, which could be a concern for homeowners with valuable items in their homes.

Finally, homeowner’s insurance premiums can vary based on a variety of factors, including the location of the home, the age of the home, and the value of the home. Dog ownership can also be a factor in determining premiums, particularly for breeds that are known for being aggressive or have a history of claims.

To mitigate these challenges, homeowners should research insurance companies and policies before purchasing a policy. They should also be upfront with their insurance company about their dog and any potential risks associated with the breed. It may also be helpful to take steps to mitigate any potential risks, such as training the dog, installing a fence, and keeping the dog on a leash while outside.

In conclusion, while owning a dog can present some challenges when it comes to homeowner’s insurance, it is still possible to obtain coverage and protect your home and family. Homeowners should be aware of the potential risks and take steps to mitigate them, and should work with their insurance company to find the right policy for their needs.

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