What breed of dogs are not covered by homeowners insurance

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• Some homeowners insurance companies exclude certain dog breeds from coverage, especially large dogs.
• Pit bulls and German shepherds are dogs that top the list of restricted dog breeds.
• If you have a restricted breed, consider an umbrella policy or canine liability insurance.
• See Insider's picks for the best homeowners insurance companies.

Approximately 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs yearly, and the average cost of a dog bite insurance claim in 2021 was $49,025, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III).

Homeowners insurance typically covers dog bites under personal liability coverage. However, insurance providers usually deny coverage for large dogs and certain breeds.

If you have a restricted dog breed, speak with your agent to determine if coverage through an umbrella policy is an option. Otherwise, you will need to purchase canine liability insurance.

Some insurance companies exclude large dogs and certain breeds from liability coverage. Insurance providers rarely allow coverage for aggressive breeds, trained attack dogs, unneutered male dogs, and dogs with a history of biting, according to American Family Insurance.

Providers typically exclude the following breeds from homeowners and renters insurance coverage, according to the insurance-comparison shopping website Insurify: 

1. Pit bulls
2. German shepherds
3. Akitas
4. Alaskan Malamutes
5. Doberman pinschers
6. Rottweilers
7. Presa Canarios
8. Staffordshire terriers
9. Chow chows
10. Great Danes
11. Mastiffs
12. Siberian huskies
13. Cane Corso
14. Any wolf hybrids

Will your dog's breed increase your premiums?

Owning a restricted dog breed may increase your homeowners insurance premiums, especially if you've recently filed a dog bite or liability claim.

Some carriers will even drop customers if their pet bites or injures someone. Some states have strict liability laws for dog bites. So, even if another dog or human provoked your dog, you are still considered liable. 

Two alternative coverage options for restricted dog breeds

Several insurance providers will not sell you a homeowners or renters insurance policy if you own a pit bull, making it harder for a policyholder to cover their dog. While this may be the case, coverage options are still available for your pit bull. 

Umbrella policy

If you have an excluded breed, you may be able to purchase coverage from an umbrella policy. This can provide additional coverage for your dog beyond the standard liability coverage included with your homeowners insurance.

Umbrella insurance premiums vary depending on the provider and the additional coverage amount you select. However, you may find that you'll pay more for umbrella insurance than someone who doesn't own a restricted-breed dog.

Canine liability insurance 

Canine liability is another option if you have a pit bull and cannot get an umbrella policy. This is a separate policy that provides coverage if your dog bites or attacks another person. The cost varies based on your dog's breed, size, location, and whether your dog has previously bitten or attacked someone. Other price factors include vaccination status and whether public authorities have deemed your dog "dangerous."

Canine liability insurance is not very common, but the following are some of the providers that offer this coverage:

1. X Insurance
2. Dean Insurance
3. Einhorn Insurance
4. Evolution Insurance Brokers 

Shop around online and get quote comparisons if you have a restricted breed. Also, be sure to inform your insurance company if you have a restricted breed dog.

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