Many frustrated and anxious pit bull owners are asking the same straightforward question on countless online forums and message boards about dog ownership and liability: “How can I insure my beloved pet?” [vc_row css_animation=”” row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”full_width” angled_section=”no” text_align=”left” background__as_pattern=”without_pattern”][v
Although the majority of homeowner’s insurance policies cover pets, almost all insurers exclude certain breeds that they deem to be “vicious,” with pit bulls topping their list. To assist you in locating the appropriate liability insurance if you are a pit bull owner or are considering adopting one, we have put together this overview of pit bull ownership and the liabilities connected with this dog breed.
Pit bulls may pose costly insurance issues
There’s no question that dogs can cause expensive problems. According to the Insurance Information Institute, there were nearly 18,000 dog bite claims in 2021, and the average cost per claim was about $49,000. Spotlight on: Dog Bite Liability. Accessed May 13, 2022. View all sources.
Such claims are typically covered by the personal liability section of your homeowners or renters insurance policy. However, you might need to add animal liability coverage as an endorsement in some circumstances.
Dog breed discrimination opponents point out that any dog, not just pit bulls, have the ability to bite when threatened. However, due to the size and strength of the breed, your insurer may still view the risk as being too great, worrying that a single attack by a pit bull could result in particularly expensive injuries.
How insurance companies restrict pit bull owners
If you admit to owning a pit bull, some insurance companies won’t sell you coverage. Sometimes, insurance companies will sell you a policy but include a clause stating that any claims involving your dog are not covered.
Some people might be willing to pay more money to insure homes with pit bulls than others. Due to the fact that each company approaches the sale of insurance to dog owners differently, it is difficult to determine the exact price increase.
Many of these restrictions depend on where you live. Certain states, including Michigan, Nevada, New York, and Pennsylvania, prohibit insurers from rejecting or canceling liability coverage solely on the basis of a pet’s breed.
Common dog health issues your American Pit Bull Terrier might face: Bone Inflammation (Panosteitis) (
Depending on the age of your American Pit Bull Terrier, your zip code, your financial situation, and the type of coverage you require, your personalized price may be lower or higher. See the table below for an example of prices for various areas: *Based on an 80% reimbursement rate, unlimited coverage, and a $500 deductible Prices may be lower or higher for different coverage options.
| Zip Code | Insurance Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| New York City, NY | 6 Months Old – $54 to $905 Years Old – $72 to $109 |
| Thomasville, AL | 6 Months Old – $29 to $485 Years Old – $39 to $58 |
| Beverly Hills, CA | 6 Months Old – $50 to $545 Years Old – $66 to $68 |
Use Pawlicy Advisor to instantly compare personalized pet insurance quotes from top-rated companies and identify hidden savings to better understand how coverage pricing relates to the breed-specific risks of an American Pit Bull Terrier. You’ll learn which waiting periods, exclusions from coverage, and treatments are best for your dog’s breed and age in less than five minutes.
For instance, having a policy with a lengthy waiting period on knee injuries may not be ideal if you have a larger breed dog, but that same policy may be ideal for a small lap dog. Pawlicy Advisor will automatically read the small print for you to increase transparency and help you find any hidden savings.
FAQ
Are pitbulls more expensive to insure?
But it might be more difficult to persuade your homeowners’ or renters’ insurance provider. Pit bulls are a breed that insurance companies frequently deem to be too dangerous to cover or will only cover at a higher cost. Akitas, German shepherds, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, and wolves or wolf hybrids are some other breeds that are frequently prohibited.
How much does Pitbull liability insurance cost?
Depending on the breed and history of your dog, costs can range from less than $100 to more than $1,000 annually. Pit bulls are covered by Einhorn Insurance and Dean Insurance, two pet liability companies.
Do pit bulls make your insurance go up?
Some home insurance companies view pit bulls as a high risk breed due to the possibility of attacks. This may lead to higher policy rates.
How much does a pitbull increase homeowners insurance?
The increase is significantly influenced by the insurance provider you choose and the background of your pit bull. According to a ValuePenguin study, if a policyholder had a dog that was an “aggressive” breed nationwide, rates rose by an average of 1%.