Woof! Dog bite statistics and your homeowner's policy

Homeownership brings with it a sense of security and comfort, but it also comes with responsibilities, including protecting your family, guests, and even your pets. While dogs are often considered beloved members of the family, they can pose a significant risk when it comes to homeowner's insurance. In this blog, we'll explore the connection between dog bite risk and homeowner's insurance.

The Rising Concern

Dog bites are more common than many people realize. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs in the United States every year. Such incidents can lead to injuries, medical expenses, and, in some unfortunate cases, even lawsuits. These situations can put homeowners and their assets at risk.

According to the World Animal Foundation, as of January 2023:

• Almost 4.5 million people become victims of dog bites annually in the US
• Among 4.5 million bite victims, HALF are children
• The incidence of dying from a dog bite is 1 in 53,843
• 70% of dog bites are from unneutered (male) dogs
• In 2019, there were a total of 46 dog attack fatalities
• Globally, tens of millions of dog bites occur annually

Homeowner's Insurance and Dog Bite Liability

Many homeowner's insurance policies provide liability coverage, which can help protect you in case your dog bites someone or causes injury. However, dog bite claims have been on the rise, prompting insurance companies to take a closer look at their policies.

Factors to Consider

1. Breed Restrictions: Some insurance companies have breed restrictions or may refuse to cover specific breeds that are deemed high-risk due to their perceived aggressive nature. Breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds are often on these lists.

2. Claim History: If you've filed previous claims due to your dog's behavior, insurance companies may view your pet as a liability. Multiple claims could lead to increased premiums or policy cancellations.

3. Policy Limits: Even if your insurance policy covers dog bite liability, there may be limits to how much it will pay out. It's essential to understand these limits and whether they provide adequate protection.

Preventing Dog Bite Incidents

To reduce the risk of dog bite incidents and maintain a favorable relationship with your homeowner's insurance company, consider the following steps:

1. Training: Invest in proper dog training and socialization. Dogs and owners who have experience in managing stressful situations are more likely to respond preemptively to a stressful situation before it leads to a dog bite.

2. Responsible Ownership: Keep your dog on a leash when in public, maintain secure fencing, and follow local ordinances regarding pet ownership.

3. Educate Guests: Inform visitors about your dog's behavior and provide clear instructions on how to interact with your pet safely.

4. Regular Vet Visits: Keep your dog's vaccinations up to date and address any behavioral issues promptly.

Dog bite risk can be a concern for homeowners, both in terms of potential harm to individuals and the financial impact it can have on your insurance coverage. Being proactive about responsible pet ownership, understanding your homeowner's insurance policy, and taking steps to mitigate risks can help ensure the safety of your family, guests, and pets, as well as maintain peace of mind regarding your homeowner's insurance coverage.