This is real and it happens all the time
People adopt a dog they love, then find out their homeowner's or renter's insurance excludes that breed. If your dog bites someone or damages property, you have zero coverage. One incident can cost tens of thousands of dollars out of pocket.
Some people have had their entire insurance policy cancelled after getting a restricted breed. Always call your insurer before adopting.
Breeds commonly restricted or denied
Restrictions vary by insurance company and state. Some states have passed laws limiting breed-based restrictions. Always verify with your specific provider.
HIGH RISK
Pit Bull Terrier
Most commonly denied breed. Many insurers will not write a policy at all.
HIGH RISK
Rottweiler
Second most commonly denied. Often excluded entirely or requires separate liability policy.
HIGH RISK
Wolf Hybrid
Widely banned. Most insurers will not cover any wolf hybrid regardless of percentage.
RESTRICTED
Doberman Pinscher
Commonly restricted. May require higher premiums or liability exclusions.
RESTRICTED
German Shepherd
Frequently restricted despite being a popular family and working dog.
RESTRICTED
Chow Chow
Often restricted. Independent temperament leads insurers to flag this breed.
RESTRICTED
Akita
Commonly restricted. Natural guarding instinct raises insurer risk assessments.
RESTRICTED
Presa Canario
Widely restricted. Large powerful guardian breed with high liability history.
CHECK
Siberian Husky
Restricted by some insurers. Varies significantly by company and state.
CHECK
Alaskan Malamute
Restricted by some insurers. Often grouped with Husky restrictions.
CHECK
Great Dane
Restricted by some insurers due to size. Not universally restricted.
CHECK
Staffordshire Terrier
Often grouped with pit bull restrictions. Varies widely by insurer.
What to do if your breed is restricted
Your options
1
Shop around. State Farm, USAA, and Chubb are known for not using breed lists - they evaluate individual dog behavior history instead.
2
Get a separate canine liability policy. Specialty pet liability insurance covers all breeds and starts around $150 to $300 per year.
3
Earn a Canine Good Citizen certificate. Some insurers reduce restrictions or premiums if your dog holds an AKC CGC certification showing good behavior.
4
Check your state laws. Several states including Nevada, New York, and Illinois have passed laws banning breed-based insurance discrimination.
5
Always disclose. Never hide your dog's breed from your insurer. If a claim is filed and the breed was not disclosed, the claim can be denied and your policy cancelled.
Take our quiz - insurance warnings included
Our breed matcher flags insurance-restricted breeds right on the results page so you know before you commit to a breed.
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