Yes, you should always disclose that you have a dog to your homeowners insurance provider. Failing to disclose a dog—especially certain breeds—can lead to claim denials for bites, policy cancellation, or allegations of material misrepresentation. Insurers view dogs as potential liability risks for injury or property damage.

Do I have to tell my home insurance I have a dog?

Insurance companies base homeowners insurance premiums on risk, and pets— including many larger breeds of dogs—pose a potential bite risk. This is why you should declare any pets you have to your insurance company.

How much does your homeowners insurance go up with a dog?

It's possible. Some dog breeds are classified by insurance providers as higher risk, meaning they're statistically more likely to be involved in liability claims. If your dog falls into one of these categories, you may see a higher annual premium, typically anywhere from $50 to $200 or more.

Do I need to tell my insurance if I get a dog?

If you're asked about household pets on a home insurance application, you should always be truthful. Even if the questionnaire you fill out doesn't explicitly ask, it's still your responsibility to let your insurer know if there are any animals in the house.

Do dogs affect house insurance?

Insurance providers may assess risk factors associated with specific dog breeds, an evaluation that directly impacts the cost of coverage, or even a denial of coverage. Some insurance companies don't enforce dog breed restrictions, allowing homeowners with high-risk breeds to secure coverage.

Dog Bites & Homeowners Insurance: What You Need to Know

What is the 80% rule in homeowners insurance?

The 80% rule in homeowners insurance requires you to insure your home for at least 80% of its total replacement cost value to receive full coverage for damages, preventing penalties for being underinsured. If you carry less than 80% coverage and have a partial loss, the insurer applies a "coinsurance penalty," paying only a proportionate amount (e.g., 80% of the claim) and leaving you responsible for the rest, even for smaller repairs. This rule ensures you have enough money to rebuild, so you must update your coverage after major renovations or with rising material/labor costs. 

Why does homeowners insurance ask about pets?

Certain Breeds May Not Be Covered

Due to the increasing court costs of dog-related injuries, insurance carriers are getting more selective about which pets they'll cover. In fact, if you have a stronger breed of dog with a more muscular jaw, you could have trouble finding a homeowners insurance policy altogether.

What dog breeds will homeowners insurance not cover?

Which Dog Breeds Are Commonly Banned From Homeowners Insurance Coverage?

• Doberman pinscher.
• Pit bull terrier.
• Rottweiler.
• Chow chow.
• Wolf dogs and hybrids.
• Presa Canario (Canary Dog)
• Akita.
• German shepherd.

Will homeowners insurance drop you if you have a pitbull?

Certain companies won't sell you coverage if you report owning a pit bull. In some cases, insurers will sell you a policy but refuse to cover claims involving your dog. Others may be willing to insure homes with pit bulls but at a higher cost.

Which dog breed is most expensive to insure?

These breeds are known for many wonderful traits but also come with higher health risks, leading to more costly insurance.

• Mastiff. ...
• French Bulldog. ...
• Rottweiler. ...
• Bernese Mountain Dog. ...
• Great Dane. ...
• Mixed Breed Dogs. ...
• Maltese. ...
• Border Collie.

Can you add pet insurance to your homeowners insurance?

There are some companies that offer pet insurance endorsements on your homeowners insurance policy, so check with our experts at Goosehead Insurance if that type of coverage is right for you. It is important to note that some insurance policies have breed specific exclusions.

What is the best dog for homeowners insurance?

Labrador Retriever. Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and gentle nature, making them excellent family pets. They have a low likelihood of aggression, making them more favored by insurance companies. Their popularity and reputation often result in lower premiums for homeowners.

What dogs make your home insurance go up?

If you own one of these dogs that raise your home insurance, consult your agent about your options.

• Akitas.
• Alaskan Malamute.
• Cane Corso.
• Presa Canarios.
• Mastiffs.
• Chow Chows.
• Siberian Huskies.
• Rottweilers.

What are three things that are not covered by homeowners insurance?

Standard homeowners insurance does NOT cover damage caused by flooding, earthquakes, termites, mold, or normal wear and tear. Learn about all the different home insurance exclusions and how to get covered.

What is the least expensive dog breed to insure?

On the flip side, other breeds that are relatively cheaper to insure due to their low overall health risk or behavioural issues include:

• Jack Russell terriers.
• Chihuahuas.
• Pomchis.
• Cockapoos.
• Patterdale terriers.

What dogs does State Farm not cover?

Does State Farm Exclude Dog Breeds from Coverage? Some insurance companies will exclude specific dog breeds, but State Farm does not. If you were attacked by a dog breed that is known to be more dangerous than others, you may have concerns that the insurance company will not pay out on your claim.

What is a restricted dog breed?

Restricted Dog Breeds. Canine Breeds with Dominate Traits toward Aggression: Alaskan Malamute. American Pit-Bull Terrier. American Staffordshire Terrier.

What do insurance companies fear the most?

Plus, insurance companies fear litigation; they would rather pay your claim than risk losing even more money in a lawsuit. Keep reading to learn about the top nine tricks insurance companies use to avoid paying you a fair settlement and how a legal professional can help you get the compensation you deserve.

Do I need to tell my home insurance if I get a dog?

Yes, you should tell your insurance company if you have a dog. That's especially true if yours tends to show up on lists of vicious or dangerous dog breeds.

Will my homeowners insurance drop me if my dog bites someone?

Yes, you can still get homeowners insurance after your dog bites a person or another dog, but your existing insurer may not be willing to cover your dog after a dog-bite claim. When it's time to renew your policy, your dog may be excluded from coverage or your insurer may choose not to renew your coverage at all.

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