Dogs And Your Homeowners Insurance Policy: What You Need To Know

Like most dog caretakers, you consider your pet a member of your family. Your Green Valley, AZ home insurer, on the other hand, has to view your pet and the risks they may pose objectively. One of the most beloved pets, dogs can also pose some of the biggest risks for injury. In fact, 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year, and 900,000 of those require medical treatment, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Here’s what you need to know about dogs and your homeowner’s insurance from Insurance Center of Green Valley. 

Homeowners Insurance and Dogs 

Most homeowners insurance policies will cover dog bites and other dog-related incidents through your liability insurance. However, when you inform your insurer that you have a dog, the possible risks they may bring can result in higher premiums. Because even the best-trained dogs can be unpredictable, you may end up an increased rate, require more liability coverage, or depending on the insurer’s policies or local ordinances, be denied insurance altogether. 

Does My Dog’s Breed Matter? 

While a dog’s breed is not a definite indication of the risk they may present, when it comes to restricting homeowners insurance, the breed is a key factor for many insurers. Many refuse to cover large, muscular canines who could potentially inflict severe harm from a single bite. While many small dogs, such as Dachshunds, are aggressive, and many large dogs such as Rottweilers and Pit Bulls are calm and non-aggressive, it often comes down to the amount of possible injury the animal could cause.  

Curious About How Your Pet May Affect Your Insurance? 

The only way to know how your specific four-legged friend may affect your Green Valley, AZ homeowners insurance coverage is to talk with your insurer. Give us a call today at Insurance Center of Green Valley to find out more about your pet-related insurance needs.