Home Insurance That Covers Pitbulls (No Exclusions)
Picture this scenario: You have just closed on your dream home or are in the middle of renewing your annual policy. Everything seems perfect until the insurance agent asks the dreaded question: "What breed is your dog?" When you answer "Pitbull," the tone shifts. Folders are closed, or a scripted apology follows: "I’m sorry, we don’t cover aggressive breeds."
It is frustrating, it feels unfair, and unfortunately, it is an incredibly common experience across the United States. To you, your dog is family—a loyal companion snoring at the foot of your bed. To an insurance underwriter relying on outdated risk tables, your dog is a financial liability.
But here is the good news: It is not impossible.
If you are tired of rejections and "blacklists," you have found the right resource. This is not just a generic list; it is your strategic roadmap to navigating the complex world of Insurance for Pitbulls. We are going to break down exactly which companies will accept you, how to avoid policy cancellation, and how to protect your assets without giving up your pet.
Why Is Finding Insurance for Pitbulls So Difficult?
To solve the problem, we must first understand the mechanics behind it. Insurers do not have a personal vendetta against your dog; they operate on risk aversion and actuarial data.
The "Blacklist" and Breed Discrimination
Most traditional insurance carriers operate with what is informally known as a "prohibited breed list." In the niche of homeowners insurance and pitbulls, this breed almost always tops the list, often alongside Rottweilers, Dobermans, and German Shepherds.
Insurers base their premiums on the likelihood of a claim. According to their historical data (which is fiercely contested by animal advocacy groups like the ASPCA), dog bites represent a massive portion of liability claims in the US—costing the industry nearly $1 billion annually. With the average cost per claim exceeding $50,000 in states like California or New York, insurers often find it easier to issue a blanket denial for "power breeds" rather than assess the individual dog.
Policy Denial vs. Liability Exclusion
It is vital that you understand this distinction when searching for house insurance that covers pitbulls:
Policy Denial: The company refuses to write you a homeowners or renters policy at all if a Pitbull resides on the premises.
Liability Exclusion: The company sells you the home insurance policy, but adds a specific "rider" or clause stating that any incident related to the dog is excluded from coverage.
Warning: An exclusion is dangerous. If your dog accidentally knocks over a guest or nips someone, you are 100% personally liable for medical bills and legal fees. Your goal is to find a comprehensive policy with no breed exclusions.
Which Companies Offer House Insurance That Covers Pitbulls?
This is where we solve your primary search intent. Fortunately, the tide is turning. Several major US carriers evaluate dogs based on behavior rather than breed. Below is an analysis of the most viable options in the current US market.
State Farm: The Industry Leader in Breed Neutrality
When discussing Insurance for Pitbulls, State Farm is widely considered the "Gold Standard." They have taken a firm, public stance against breed discrimination.
Their Philosophy: State Farm focuses on the individual dog's bite history. "It’s not the breed, it’s the bite." If your dog has no record of aggression, they are eligible.
Key Benefit: They typically do not charge a higher premium just for owning a Pitbull, which is rare in the industry.
Note: While corporate policy is inclusive, always verify with your local agent, as specific state regulations can occasionally interfere.
USAA: The Best Option for Military Families
If you are an active service member, a veteran, or an eligible family member, USAA is often the superior choice for homeowners insurance and pitbulls.
Their Philosophy: Like State Farm, USAA does not use prohibited breed lists to determine eligibility. They understand that military families often own large dogs for protection and companionship while spouses are deployed.
Limitations: Membership is strictly limited to the military community. If you qualify, this is often the most affordable option with the highest customer satisfaction ratings.
Farmers Insurance: A Changing Landscape
Farmers is an interesting case. Historically restrictive, they have softened their policies in recent years, particularly in states where legislation has forced a change.
The Caveat: Unlike State Farm, you must ask specifically. In some states (like California and Nevada), they have moved toward behavioral assessment. They may require you to fill out a detailed questionnaire about the dog’s history or training.
Chubb: For High-Net-Worth Homes
If your property value is significant, Chubb is a premium insurer that typically adopts a more liberal stance on pets.
Their Philosophy: Chubb caters to high-net-worth clients who expect seamless coverage. They generally cover Pitbulls provided there is no history of aggression. However, be prepared for premiums that are significantly higher than the standard market rate.
What About "FAIR Plans"?
If every standard carrier rejects you, most states offer a "Fair Access to Insurance Requirements" (FAIR) plan. These are state-subsidized "insurers of last resort." They are expensive and offer bare-bones coverage. Treat this as your absolute final option.
Understanding Liability in Homeowners Insurance and Pitbulls
Understanding "Liability Coverage" is non-negotiable. When you search for Insurance for Pitbulls, you aren't just protecting your roof from hail; you are protecting your future wages and savings from a lawsuit.
Personal Liability Coverage (Coverage E)
Standard US homeowners policies (HO-3) include Personal Liability. This covers:
Medical expenses for the injured party.
Legal defense costs if you are sued.
Settlements or judgments against you.
The standard limit is usually $100,000. For Pitbull owners, this is insufficient. Given the stigma surrounding the breed, lawsuits can be aggressive. It is highly recommended to increase this limit to $300,000 or $500,000. The difference in premium is usually less than $20 a year for significantly more protection.
Umbrella Policies
If you own a home, have a 401(k), or have savings, a standard policy might not cover a catastrophic claim.
What is it? An Umbrella Policy kicks in once your homeowners liability limit is exhausted.
Relevance: If you secure house insurance that covers pitbulls through a carrier like State Farm, they will usually allow you to add an Umbrella Policy. This can provide $1 million+ in coverage, ensuring that one accident doesn't bankrupt you.
Is There Specific Insurance Just for the Dog if My Home Insurer Rejects Me?
This is the savvy "loophole" many homeowners overlook. If your current home insurer offers a great rate but refuses to cover the dog, you do not necessarily have to switch providers. You can opt for Canine Liability Insurance.
Stand-Alone Pet Liability Policies
There are specialized niche companies in the US that fill this gap. They cover only the damage the dog causes.
Einhorn Insurance (Dog Liability Insurance): They specialize in "dangerous breeds" and do not discriminate based on breed, focusing instead on responsible ownership.
XINSURANCE: They market themselves as covering the "uncoverable." They offer custom liability solutions for Pitbull owners, even those with a previous bite history (something almost no one else touches).
The "Stacking" Strategy
This strategy works best when:
You have an amazing rate on your home insurance that you don't want to lose.
You are a renter and your landlord demands specific proof of coverage for the dog.
You can exclude the dog from your main homeowners policy (satisfying that insurer) and hand them a certificate of insurance from Einhorn or XINSURANCE to prove you are covered.
How Can I Improve My Chances of Getting Affordable Insurance for Pitbulls?
Beyond picking the right company, you can take proactive steps to present yourself—and your dog—as a "low risk" to underwriters.
1. The Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Test
The American Kennel Club (AKC) offers the Canine Good Citizen program. It is a 10-step test certifying that your dog has good manners, can handle distractions, and is safe around strangers.
The Insurance Impact: Presenting a CGC certificate to an agent is tangible proof of a safe dog. Some carriers, like Nationwide (in certain programs) or Farmers, may make exceptions to breed rules if this certification is present.
2. Spay/Neuter and Vet Records
Actuarial data suggests that unaltered dogs are statistically more likely to roam or display territorial aggression.
Having your Pitbull spayed or neutered is a sign of responsible ownership.
Keep vaccination records impeccable. Insurers view responsible medical care as a proxy for responsible supervision.
3. Physical Security Measures
Insurers love risk mitigation.
Fencing: A secure, 6-foot privacy fence with self-latching gates reduces the risk of the dog escaping or a child entering uninvited.
Beware of Dog Signs: Caution: Ask your agent about this. In some states, a "Beware of Dog" sign is a good deterrent. In others, lawyers can argue it is an admission that you knew the dog was dangerous. A "Dog on Premises" sign is often the safer legal choice.
What to Do If Your Insurance Is Cancelled Because of a Pitbull?
Receiving a "Notice of Non-Renewal" is stressful. You typically have 30 to 45 days to act before coverage lapses.
Crisis Management Steps:
Check Your State Laws: Some states are passing laws to prohibit breed discrimination in insurance (notably Nevada, Arizona, and New York recently passed legislation limiting this practice). Know your rights.
Contact an Independent Broker: Do not call 1-800 numbers for big brands directly. Find a local "Independent Insurance Broker." Tell them immediately: "I need house insurance that covers pitbulls." They have access to multiple carriers and know which underwriters in your zip code are lenient.
Correct Misclassification: If your dog is a mix (e.g., a "Labrabull") and the insurance company labeled it a purebred Pitbull without proof, a DNA test might help. However, be careful—if the DNA test comes back showing high percentages of Staffordshire Terrier, you are legally obligated to disclose it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Insurance and Pitbulls
Will my premium go up if I tell them I have a Pitbull?
With breed-neutral companies like State Farm, the answer is typically no. The premium is based on the home's value and location, not the dog's breed. However, with other carriers, if they accept the dog, they might rate the policy higher. Never lie about the breed. That is insurance fraud ("material misrepresentation") and will cause your claim to be denied instantly if something happens, leaving you to pay everything out of pocket.
Does Renters Insurance cover Pitbulls?
Yes. The same companies that are friendly to homeowners (State Farm, USAA) are generally the best for renters. Renters insurance is incredibly cheap (often $15-$20/month) and provides the critical liability coverage you need to rent a home. Many landlords will accept a Pitbull if you provide proof of a renters policy with $100k-$300k in liability coverage.
What if my dog bites an intruder?
This varies by state ("Castle Doctrine" laws). Generally, you are not liable if your dog bites someone who is committing a felony on your property. However, if the "intruder" is a delivery driver, a neighbor retrieving a ball, or a child cutting through your yard, you are likely liable. This is why Insurance for Pitbulls is essential regardless of how well-trained your dog is.
Conclusion
Finding Insurance for Pitbulls in the United States requires patience and a tactical approach, but you do not have to settle for subpar protection. Your dog is family, and you should not have to choose between keeping them and securing your home.
Your Next Steps:
Start by getting quotes from State Farm and USAA (if eligible).
If you hit a wall, contact a local independent broker and ask about Einhorn or XINSURANCE for a standalone policy.
Enroll your dog in a Canine Good Citizen class this weekend to build a resume for your pet.
Don't let the fear of a "blacklist" leave you exposed. With the right provider and the right documentation, you can secure the peace of mind that both you and your Pitbull deserve.
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