What Is Your Liability if Your Dog Bites Someone?

Nearly 90 million dogs live in 65 million U.S. households, with roughly 600,000 dogs in New York City alone. It’s no secret that many humans dote on their “fur babies,” but even pampered pets can nip under certain circumstances. Each year, approximately 4.5 million people—mostly children—experience dog bites. The Insurance Information Institute reports that the number of dog bite claims in 2024 increased to 22,658, an 18.9% increase over the previous year.

Dog Bites and Homeowners Insurance

Most homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies cover dog bites, up to the liability limits. In 2024, according to the Insurance Information Institute and State Farm, liability claims related to dog bites and other injuries caused by canines cost homeowner insurers $1.57 billion.

In New York, the average insurance claim for a dog bite exceeds $110,000, compared to a national average of $69,272. Many policies also cover dog bites outside the home—say, if the owner is walking or traveling with the dog. For claims that exceed liability limits, typically $100,000 to $300,000, the dog owner must pay the excess damages.

We recommend checking your insurance policy or confirming with your insurance agent or broker that your policy includes protection against liability caused by a dog or other pet. The decision to adopt a dog should also prompt a call to your insurance partner. Some homeowners’ and renters’ policies may exclude certain dog breeds, such as pit bulls and Rottweilers, but owners can purchase a canine liability policy for protection.

Tips for Preventing Dog Bites

Dogs bite for many reasons, and even well-trained dogs may bite if provoked. The National Dog Bite Prevention Week Coalition offers several tips for pet owners to prevent dog bites and best practices to avoid being bitten.

Responsible pet parents should take the following actions:

• Take care of the pup’s health. Dogs are more prone to bite if they’re sick or in pain. Schedule routine veterinary visits to check your pet’s physical and behavioral health.
• Socialize the dog. Introduce your dog to a range of settings, people, and situations. Creating positive experiences in a deliberate, controlled manner will build your pet’s confidence. Socialization skills are important for all dogs, not just puppies.
• Understand your dog’s needs. As the owner, you need to recognize your pup’s body language and help him or her navigate triggers and other challenging situations. For instance, dogs that overreact to visitors should be secured in another room when you have guests. If you’re a new dog owner, early training classes will help both you and your pup get off to a good start.
• Keep your dog leashed. Again, watch the dog’s body language for any signs that he or she may not be comfortable.
• Monitor your dog. Even if your pet is playing in your own backyard, make sure he or she doesn’t leave the premises, where your dog risks injuring itself or a person.

To minimize the risk of dog bites, follow these guidelines:

• Don’t pet an unfamiliar dog without first consulting with the owner or guardian. In addition to common courtesy, the owner will know how their pet reacts to strangers.
• Don’t approach an anxious dog. Any signs of distress—growling, barking, whining—should be taken as a cue to steer clear.
• Don’t leave small children unattended with a dog. Even well-behaved children can be unpredictable and accidentally provoke a dog. Supervise all interactions with dogs for children age 10 and younger.

If you have additional questions about dog bites or you’d like a free review of your current homeowners insurance policy, please call us at 877-576-5200.