What’s the deal with home insurance and dogs? There are over 4.5 million dog bites each year. These dog bites account for almost 25% of annual homeowner insurance liability claims. If you are a dog owner who’s in the market for a homeowner insurance policy, you should know what you might be up against.

What’s the deal with home insurance and dogs?

Certain breeds may exclude you from coverage in the voluntary market. These breeds include (but are not limited to): Akita, Cane Corso, Chow, Doberman, German Sheperd, Mastiff, Pit Bull, Ridgeback, Rottweiler, and Wolf Hybrid.

Any dog with a past history of biting will exclude the owner from voluntary market coverage.

What’s the deal with home insurance and dogs? No dog owner wants their dog biting friends or family, so here are some suggestions from professional dog trainers.

*Consider dog breeds carefully prior to selecting your new pet.  Some breeds are more aggressive than others.  You can even ask your insurance agent about a list of breeds that are problems for insurance companies.

*Spay or neuter the animal, as this often decreases the aggressiveness of dogs.

*Seek a vetrenarian’s advice quickly if your dog starts to become aggressive.

*Socialize your dog from an early age to encourage appropriate behavior.

*Never leave dogs alone with small children.

*Avoid aggressive games with puppies and dogs- tug of war, wrestling.

*Don’t put dogs in situations where they can feel threatened or teased.

*Train your dog to obey commands.