Considering that there are approximately 78 million pet dogs in the United States, it’s pretty clear that we love our animal companions. We consider our dogs to be family and are passionate about them on a personal level. So, when it comes to the topic of whether our furry, four-footed friends are covered on our homeowners’ insurance policy, we don’t take the matter lightly.
Dog Breed Insurance Risks
Insurance companies like the All-Tex Insurance are businesses and, as such, must evaluate the insurance coverage risks between groups who share similar risks or behavioral characteristics for which there are sufficient data and history. For example, when assessing risk for motor vehicle coverage, younger drivers in Granbury, TX, who have a record of speeding tickets, are involved in more vehicle collisions per mile driven than any other age group. While it’s true that the vast majority of younger drivers will never be involved in an accident or end up filing an insurance claim, it’s almost impossible to determine which specific driver in that high-risk group won’t behave as the group statistics and data predict.
But My Dog is a Good Dog!
This same type of risk factor that teen drivers face holds for dogs, as well. While your pooch may have perfect manners, be polite and non-aggressive, and couldn’t harm a fly, there may be other dogs like them in high-risk groups. Unfortunately, approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs per year. Of the 885,000 incidents that caused an injury that requires medical attention, almost 50% of those victims are children, according to the CDC. We know, through data, studies, and experience, that certain groups or dog breeds produce more severe loss results in a biting event.
Can My Dog Be Covered in My Homeowners’ Insurance Policy?
At the All-Tex Insurance in Granbury, TX, we understand that not all dog groups and breeds will present precisely the same risks of others simply because of their breed. Other mitigating factors can influence a dog’s behavior. For more information about how whether your furry friend can be covered in your homeowners’ policy, give us a call today!
