Dogs are a very important part of most modern families. They may be considered children in various households. There are even day spas for dogs now. There is no doubt that having a dog is the standard. However, many people don’t realize that having a dog can affect their homeowners insurance policies. Yes, that beautiful animal that you hold dear can also cost you more than dog food and leashes. Did you know that a dog’s specific breed can cause an increase in rates or a complete denial of coverage on your homeowners policy?

Pit Bulls, Doberman Pinschers, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Chows, Great Danes, Akitas, Siberian Huskies, and Wolf Hybrids are just a few of the dog breeds that can cause insurance companies to increase rates, deny coverage, or exclude them from coverage. policies. Even a mix of these breeds can often be a problem for your insurance company. The risks are generally determined by the reputation of the breed, the frequency of bites from dogs of that specific breed, and whether the dog is large and capable of causing harm.

If your insurance company decides to exclude your pet from its policy or penalize you with a steep increase in your premiums, there are several options to consider. With just a little research, you can point in the direction of an insurance company willing to give your pet a chance. Call your local humane society or contact your state insurance commissioner for a list of dog-friendly insurers. You may also want to consider an umbrella policy that covers what your insurance company refuses to cover. This is a simple and fast route. An additional option is to call a specialized dog liability insurance company. This is especially helpful if your animal has a history of bad behavior. They can write policies to cover your pet that other companies are not willing to do.

Please don’t be discouraged from owning any of these breeds. All animals deserve loving homes. Sometimes the breeds they fear the most turn out to be the best pets. Just be sure to call your insurance agent and get all the details. Be sure to review your policy carefully, as some companies try to exclude dog bite claims or severely limit claim amounts. Ask if there is a way to make your pet insurable. A dog obedience class can make all the difference or give you the break you deserve.