Dog Bites Are a Growing Insurance Risk: Here’s What You Need to Know
Jaw-dropping fact: In 2024, the average dog bite insurance claim cost over $69,000.
Dog bites now account for more than one-third of all homeowners’ liability claims nationwide.
Even the most loyal and gentle family dog can react unexpectedly under stress or fear, and when that happens, the financial and legal consequences can be severe.
Why Dog Bites Matter for Insurance
A single bite can lead to:
- Steep medical bills or lawsuits
- Higher premiums or policy cancellation
- Denial of coverage or exclusions for certain breeds
- Personal liability if damages exceed coverage limits
Insurers take this risk seriously. Many now keep internal “dog breed lists” and may refuse coverage, add exclusion riders, or cap liability payouts. Commonly restricted breeds include Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Dobermans, Akitas, and Chows, but the list varies by carrier.
What You Can Do: Prevent and Protect
As a dog owner, you can take steps to reduce the risk of an incident and protect your household from unexpected costs:
1. Choose a Breed That Matches Your Lifestyle
Some dogs require more space, structure, or socialization than others. Breed characteristics can influence behavior, especially in unfamiliar situations.
2. Prioritize Training and Socialization
Professional obedience training and early exposure to people, animals, and different environments help reduce fear-based or territorial reactions.
3. Secure Your Property
Install proper fencing, keep gates locked, and prevent unsupervised interactions with delivery workers, children, or strangers. Warning signs can help—but they do not reduce liability.
4. Supervise Interactions
Never leave your dog alone with unfamiliar visitors or young children. If your dog exhibits fear, anxiety, or guarding behavior, seek advice from a behaviorist or trainer.
5. Know Your Policy Coverage
Review your homeowners or renters policy carefully. Ask:
- Does it cover dog bite liability?
- Are there breed exclusions?
- What are the liability limits?
If coverage is limited, consider adding a personal umbrella policy to extend protection.
What to Do if a Bite Happens
- Secure your dog immediately.
- Help the injured party and call for medical assistance.
- Exchange contact and insurance details.
- Document what happened and gather witness information.
- Notify your insurance agent promptly.
- Follow any local requirements for reporting or quarantine.
How Keslar Insurance Can Help
As an independent insurance agency, we work with multiple carriers, each with their own underwriting guidelines, to find the best policy fit for your situation. If your current coverage excludes dog-related claims or has breed restrictions, we’ll help you explore options.
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all answers. We believe in responsible ownership, thoughtful risk management, and honest conversations. We’ll walk you through your current policy, identify any gaps, and help you make informed decisions.
Final Thought: Don’t Let Your Dog Become a Liability
Most dogs never cause harm. But one unexpected moment can have lifelong consequences both for the people involved and for you as the owner. With the right precautions and the right insurance, you can protect what matters most.
Want peace of mind? Let’s review your coverage.
We’ll help you understand your risks, your policy, and how to keep both your finances and your four-legged family member protected.
Call or message us today for a free review.
