If you have dogs in your house, you may be wondering how they affect your homeowners insurance coverage. After all, it also covers serious injuries that occur on your property, such as dog bites. In this article, you’ll learn how dog ownership affects home insurance so you can ensure you have sufficient coverage. 

A Dog Lover’s Guide to Homeowners Insurance

1. How does owning a dog impact coverage needs?

If you own a dog, there’s always the chance they’ll bite someone on your property. As such, dog ownership increases your personal liability. Should your dog bites someone, you’ll be financially liable for the damages. 

2. How much additional coverage should dog owners purchase?

The average homeowners insurance policy covers between $100,000 and $300,000 in dog-related injuries. If your dog is larger and more inclined to bite, it would be prudent to purchase more insurance coverage. If, on the other hand, you have a smaller and timid dog, it’s unlikely they’ll cause more than $100,000 in damages. 

3. Does a standard policy cover damages caused by any breed of dog?

Insurers know that every dog has the capacity to cause bodily injury. However, because they deal solely in statistics, they recognize that some breeds are at a higher risk to cause injury. Such risk breeds include pit bulls, chows, German shepherds, Akitas, and Dobermans. If your dogs are deemed a higher risk, your insurer may refuse to cover the damages they cause—or to cover your property altogether. As such, it’s important to read the fine print of your policy. If your dogs aren’t covered, you can purchase separate pet liability insurance. 

4. Will a homeowner be responsible for a dog bite regardless of the circumstances?

Because dog bite laws vary by state, so does a homeowner’s liability. In Missouri, for example, dog owners are considered strictly liable for any damages their pets cause. That means that even if their dog has never exhibited aggressive tendencies, they can be financially liable in the event of an attack. There are two exceptions to this rule: You may not be liable if the victim provoked the animal or if the victim was trespassing at the time. 

If you’d like to purchase additional homeowners insurance for you and your pets, turn to the Farmers Insurance Group in Mountain Grove, MO. Since 1928, they’ve helped clients protect themselves in the event of a disaster. Because of their affordable rates and comprehensive coverage, they’ve become one of the most recognized carriers in the country. From sizable life insurance policies to auto insurance coverage that’s tailored to meet your particular needs, they offer it all. To request a quote for homeowners insurance, visit their website or call (417) 926-7900.