We often discuss pet ownership and the reasoning behind owning an aggressive breed of dog. However, we just recently found that insurnace companies have policy premiums based on ownership of these same breeds! Not having the percieved need to own an agressive dog, it never occurred to me that there may be different costs associated with them.
This is important and I did a little research and found that insurers widely consider the following aggressive breeds: Akita, Alskan Malamute, Chow, Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherd, Pit Bull, Presa Canario, Rottweiler, Siberian Husky, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and any Wolf hybrid.
Many owners are not aware of the restrictions and may not be covered, or may even see their insurance cancelled if found by the insurer. Of course renters have the same requirements, and landlords need to be vigilant on their tenant's pets to ensure compliance.
We have seen townhome and condominium restrictions on certain animals, and this makes sense as there is so much common ground and shared areas. Although we have not seen one locally, we have heard of restrictions in some HOA's as well.
So, please take a minute to make sure you are covered if you own one of these pets, and talk to your clients to make sure they have discussed insurance and review any HOA or tenant policies before entering agreements.
And, I do realize that most of these are good animals that people have turned aggressive, this is just good information to share.
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