Discussions about dogs are often very emotional, given how we treat them as family members. Most people love their dogs and can never imagine them causing harm.
Unfortunately, as insurance agents, we may have to tell a prospect or client that we cannot offer them a policy or, worse, cancel their existing homeowner's insurance because of the type of dog they own.
This blog provides the facts about what you need to know about dogs and insurance.
Does my NH homeowners insurance cover me if my dog bites someone?
Typically, yes, as this is covered under the liability portion of your homeowners, renters, or condo policy. A problem can arise if you were not entirely truthful when completing your application for homeowners insurance.
When starting a policy with a carrier, you are likely asked about any pets you own. If you decide it is best not to mention that you have a dog, this would be considered misrepresentation and grounds for denying not just a dog bite claim but any claim.
The rationale from the insurance company is that the company would not have issued the policy in the first place, and hence not covered the loss you experienced, had they known the truth about your dog. It is best to always be truthful on your application and review all questions. Insurance companies have different underwriting guidelines, meaning some companies have tighter dog restrictions than others. Let your insurance agent find the company that can meet your needs.
Why would my insurance company cancel my home or rental policy if I own a specific dog breed?
Under dog-bite statutes in NH, owners are liable for all injuries caused by their dogs, including medical injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Dog bites are covered under the liability portion of your NH homeowners, renters, or condo policy, with limits typically between $100,000 and $500,000. The dog owner is personally responsible if the damage exceeds the coverage limit. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), the average dog bite claim in 2003 was $19,162; in 2023, the average dog bite claim cost was $58,545.
Dog bite claims account for over one-third of all homeowner liability losses filed with insurance companies. This fact alone makes insurance companies hesitant to write certain breeds of dogs.
Which breeds are typically on an insurance company's "dog list"?
Perhaps you have heard about the dog list insurance companies have. This list does exist and varies by company. Some companies have comprehensive lists, while others are minimal. That said, most insurance companies will not write homeowners insurance for someone with the following breeds (either pure or mixed):
- Pitbull
- Rottweiler
- Doberman Pincher
A company with a more extensive list may also include:
- German Shepherd
- Great Dane
- Mastiff
- Boxer
- Dalmatian
Any dog can bite, so why are certain breeds on the dog list?
The key to understanding insurance is remembering that everything comes down to probability and statistics. Statistics show that though any dog can bite, certain breeds are more likely to bite than others. Certain breeds, such as pit bulls, can cause more extensive injuries, given the pure muscle tone of their jaws. With so much money on the line for insurance companies, the carrier can decide not to take that risk.
What happens to my homeowners or renter's insurance if my dog does bite someone?
If a claim is filed for your dog biting someone, your insurance company will likely send you a nonrenewal notice. When this happens, securing new coverage without getting rid of the dog is challenging.
Some non-standard companies in NH will consider writing the insurance, but the policy would most likely include an animal liability exclusion. If your dog were to bite again, you would be 100% responsible for paying for the injuries. As an insurance agent for many years, telling a client this is very difficult.
What if I am a landlord, and my tenant has a dog?
At HPM Insurance we strongly encourage all landlords to require their tenants to obtain renters insurance. This includes coverage for not just their personal property but also their liability. This requirement does not guarantee you would not dragged into a lawsuit, but the tenant's policy would most likely be the first one to cover the loss. If the tenant does not have a policy and there was a liability claim on your rented property, whether dog-related or not, your landlord's policy would most likely have to defend you and possibly pay the claim. Given this fact, we typically recommend that landlords not allow dogs in rented units.
"I feel like I should not even get a dog so as not to risk my insurance!"
Not getting a pet is not the right mindset. Most of our staff at HPM Insurance are happy dog owners. We suggest you be truthful with your insurance company, as different insurance companies have different guidelines. Some companies will take any dog breed if they have successfully passed a dog training class and we meet the dog. If we know you have a dog on the "list," we could explore this option for you vs. a company that would not even consider it.
As any dog can bite, socialize and take your dog obedience training. Such actions can decrease the chance of bad behavior and a possible lawsuit.
Stay safe!
