10 Dog Breeds Often Blacklisted by Insurance Companies

A report released by DogsBite.org in 2009 revealed that of the 88 fatal dog attacks recorded in the U.S. between Jan. 1, 2006, and Dec. 31, 2008, pit bulls are responsible for 52 (59%) of these attacks. According to The American Veterinary Medical Association, of the cases that resulted in very severe injuries or fatalities, pit bull-type dogs were more frequently identified. 

4. Chow Chows

A Chow Chow was euthanized in 2012, after it attacked an eight-year-old boy riding a bicycle in York, S.C. The boy was no stranger to the neighbor’s dog, and played with him regularly. The attack left him suffering facial injuries and in need of stitches and staples. The breed is known for its scowling expression, black tongue and thick coat, and likes to hunt, herd, protect and pull. According to Animal Planet

, the Chow Chow can be aggressive toward strange dogs out of a need to protect its human family and the other pets in its household.

Tip 3: Always try to minimize your claims- “There’s a significant correlation between claims that are made and future additional likelihood of claims being made,” says Chris Hackett, senior director of personal lines policy at the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America. The type and number of claim influences rates.