According to a recent report by the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I), just over 19,000 dog bite claims in 2023 had US insurers paying out $1.12 billion, an increase of more than 8% over 2022 and 110% over the past decade. However, the average cost per claim slightly decreased from $64,555 in 2022 to $58,545 in 2023, according to Janet Ruiz, director of strategic communications at the Triple-I. It is hoped that as pet owners become more educated about responsible pet ownership and how to interact with dogs more safely, these statistics will continue to drop.
If you own a dog and he bites someone or knocks them down and injures them, you can be held liable for the damages done. Your homeowner’s insurance can help cover hospital bills, injuries, and legal expenses. However, some insurance carriers exclude certain dog breeds from coverage. If you are uncertain, you should speak with a trained insurance agent at Brooks, Todd & McNeil.
It is important to remember that responsible pet ownership starts at home. Recognizing that every dog has the potential to bite, whether it be a Chihuahua or a Golden Retriever, is a good place to start. Be an advocate for your dog and understand his body language. If you think your dog is feeling anxious or if he is giving signs that he doesn’t want to interact with someone, don’t push the matter.
What other things can you do to help prevent your dog from being in a position to bite?
- Socialize your dog- Set them up for success when meeting new people or animals. A dog that is well socialized is a more trustworthy companion.
- Obtain your dog from a reputable rescue or breeder. Knowing your dog’s history can play an important role in knowing his potential to bite.
- Take your dog to training classes that use positive reinforcement methods. You can start training classes as early as 8 weeks of age.
- Ensure that your dog is in good health. Dogs that are not feeling well or are in pain have more of a propensity to bite. If your dog hasn’t been to the vet in a while, schedule an appointment.
- Be responsible around other people’s pets. Your dog may be friendly but that doesn’t mean the other dog is. Attempting to break up a dog fight can be quite dangerous.
- Always walk your dog on a leash or if your dog is in a secured off-leash area, monitor their body language for signs of stress or anxiety.
Want to test your dog’s social and obedience skills? The American Kennel Club (AKC) offers several opportunities to evaluate your dog. The first is the Canine Good Citizen program. This is a series of 10 “life” skills ranging from sitting politely as a stranger approaches, to loose leash walking and staying in place. After you have mastered all of the aspects of the CGC, there are many other fun things you can do to not only strengthen the bond you have with your dog but help them stay well socialized and happy. You can find out more about the various programs available on the AKC website at www.akc.org
If you are concerned that your dog might be a potential problem for your insurance carrier, we may have a solution. Brooks, Todd & McNeil brings decades of experience and a commitment to personalized service. Reach out to us today to speak with one of our knowledgeable agents. Our dedicated team is here to answer your questions, assess your risks, and help you find the insurance policy that best meets your needs. Call us at (800) 448-4567.