According to the Insurance Information Institute, homeowner insures paid over $796.8 million as a result of 17,802 dog bite claims in 2019. We would like to briefly go over what happens if your dog were to bite someone and of course, how to prevent a dog bite claim.

What Would Happen If My Dog Bit Someone?

Homeowners’ or renter’s insurance policy includes liability coverage which will likely cover you for the damages. Keep in mind, some insurance carriers do not offer liability coverage for specific dog breeds. They also may offer some, but limit the amount of coverage available. Talk to your agent about what breeds may not be covered. If you are not covered, you would have to pay out of pocket for the damages caused by your dog. If your insurance provides coverage it is likely your insurance premium will increase at renewal or you could even be dropped from your insurance carrier.

How to Lower Your Risk for a Dog Bite Claim

Don’t ever assume your dog won’t bite someone.

You can have the sweetest dog on the planet, but you still can’t make the assumption that your dog won’t bite. Watching your dog’s behavior around strangers or even family and friends is crucial. Never leave your dog alone with children who might cause the dog to nip if harassed or injured.

If you adopt a pet, do your research

What should you know about your breed’s common behavior? Ask several questions with the adoption agency. Have they noticed specific behaviors you should be aware of? Understanding what triggers your dog’s aggression or what makes them uncomfortable can save you from a dog bite claim down the road.

Know The Signs Your Dog May Be Uncomfortable, Anxious or Aggressive

Dog bites are common in these scenarios. Dogs may react to such things as taking away their food or a toy or even touching them while eating.

1. Aggressive

• Stiff tail, intense stare, growling, hair up on back.

2. Uncomfortable/anxious

• Pulled back ears, tucked tail, no eye contact, lowered head or body

Get some training

Whether you are a dog owner or someone who doesn’t own a dog, being around a dog with good behavior is ideal. Obedience training can benefit any dog.

Socialize Your Dog

When your dog is around other dogs and people, it can help them work through any anxieties they may feel.

Be Extra Aware Around Children

This goes back to our number one answer, don’t assume your dog will never bite. If your dog is around children they aren’t familiar with, watch for signs of your dog being uncomfortable.

Get Your Pet Spayed or Neutered

This can help with a dog’s aggression.

Being a dog owner can bring so much happiness into your life. Use these tips to worry less about your dog biting a loved one or a stranger. For questions about your home or renters insurance policy and what coverages are available for dogs, contact us! We can go over your current policy or even find you a different insurance carrier who may be a more ideal fit for pet ownership.

It isn’t uncommon for people to type into a Google search bar, “best place to find car insurance” or “best insurance rate.” There are many ways to purchase an insurance policy but there are countless benefits of buying from an independent agent.

As an independent insurance agency, we want to explain why buying your insurance policy through a company like ours is always the best option.

First and foremost: Choice. 

We represent multiple, top-rated insurance companies. Some great local ones as well as some nationally recognized names. This means you get the best coverage and pricing from many of the best companies in your state. Our licensed agents will search our network of great companies to find you the best rate and coverage on your car, home, business, or life insurance policy! One call to us can save you hours of time.

Secondly: Options.

We can discuss what coverage options we feel would be best for your specific needs. We can explain what happens when you have specific coverage options vs. not having the coverage options. We can shop your deductible and let you choose a lower or higher and show you the differences in your premium all with the click of a mouse. With this information you can make the choice on what works best for you. We always want to make sure you fully understand your options so you can make an informed choice on your insurance policy.

Thirdly: More discounts.

Being an independent insurance agent, we also will search for available discounts. Whether it is bundling multiple policies together or finding other ways to save you money, we understand saving money is important to all of our customers. We take pride in finding you discounts! If you are unhappy with your insurance price at renewal time, let us requote you with one of our other carriers.

Lastly, we’re local!

We work and live in your community. We are always a quick phone call or email away. If you need to add a vehicle, remove a vehicle, get a quick quote on a motorcycle or boat you’re interested in buying, or want to add umbrella insurance, we can help. You can get this information over the phone or we can email you options for you to review at your convenience.

Insurance can be confusing which is why the best place to find an insurance policy is through an independent insurance agent. We will answer your questions, provide you with many coverage choices and will find ways to make your insurance coverage affordable. Contact us by calling our office, requesting a quote through our website or simply emailing us.