Dog Liability Insurance: What You Need to Know

As a dog owner, you love your furry friend and consider them a part of your family. However, as much as we adore our pets, accidents can happen. That’s where dog liability insurance comes in. In this article, we’ll explain what dog liability insurance is, why you need it, and answer some frequently asked questions.

What is Dog Liability Insurance?

Dog liability insurance is pet insurance that covers you financially if your dog causes property damage or injures someone. It’s also known as canine liability insurance or dog bite insurance. This type of insurance is important because dog owners can be held legally responsible for their pet’s actions if they cause harm to someone else.

There are two types of dog liability insurance: primary and umbrella. Primary insurance covers you up to a certain amount, while umbrella insurance provides additional coverage above that amount.

Primary Dog Liability Insurance

Primary dog liability insurance covers you up to a certain amount, depending on the policy you choose. Some policies cover up to $100,000 or more. This insurance typically covers the following:

If your dog causes harm to someone, your primary insurance will cover the damages up to the limit of the policy. If the damages exceed that limit, you will be responsible for the remaining amount.

Umbrella Dog Liability Insurance

Umbrella dog liability insurance provides additional coverage above the limit of your primary insurance. It’s usually sold in increments of $1 million and can extend your coverage up to $5 million or more.

If the damages from a dog-related incident exceed the limit of your primary insurance, your umbrella insurance will kick in and cover the extra costs. Umbrella insurance is especially important if you own a large dog or a dog breed that is considered high-risk.

Why Do You Need Dog Liability Insurance?

There are a few reasons why you need dog liability insurance, even if you think your dog would never hurt anyone. Here are some of the top reasons:

Legal Liability

If your dog causes harm to someone, you can be held legally responsible for their injuries. This means you could be sued and forced to pay damages, medical bills, and legal fees. Dog liability insurance can protect you from financial ruin in these situations.

Homeowner’s Insurance Exclusions

Some homeowner’s insurance policies exclude coverage for certain dog breeds or dog-related incidents. If your policy has these exclusions, you may need to purchase separate dog liability insurance.

Breeds Considered High-Risk

Some dog breeds are considered high-risk by insurance companies, meaning they are more likely to cause harm to someone. Breeds such as Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Dobermans may be excluded from primary insurance coverage or have higher premiums. Dog liability insurance can help cover these breeds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Liability Insurance

What Dog Breeds are Excluded from Dog Liability Insurance?

Each insurance company has its own list of excluded dog breeds. However, some of the most commonly excluded breeds include Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, Dobermans, Akitas, and Chows. If you own one of these breeds, you may need to purchase separate dog liability insurance.

What Does Dog Liability Insurance Cover?

Dog liability insurance typically covers injuries caused by your dog to other people, property damage caused by your dog, and legal fees and court costs. However, intentional acts or criminal behavior by your dog are usually excluded.

How Much Does Dog Liability Insurance Cost?

The cost of dog liability insurance depends on several factors, including the breed of your dog, the amount of coverage you need, and your location. On average, dog liability insurance can cost between $150 and $500 per year.

Is Dog Liability Insurance Required by Law?

Only some states have specific laws regarding dog liability insurance. However, regardless of whether it’s required by law, it’s always a good idea to have dog liability insurance to protect yourself financially in case of an accident.

Can I Get Dog Liability Insurance for My Business?

If you own a business that involves dogs, such as a dog-walking service or a pet store, you may need commercial dog liability insurance. This type of insurance covers any damages caused by dogs in your business, including injuries to customers or damage to property.

Conclusion

Dog liability insurance is an important investment for any dog owner. It can protect you from financial ruin if your dog causes harm to someone. Consider purchasing dog liability insurance to give yourself peace of mind and protect your furry friend.