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We Love Our Dogs! But, Not All Dogs Are Created Equal.

By August 7, 2026August 22nd, 2026No Comments
We Love Our Dogs! But, Not All Dogs Are Created Equal-
Some Require an Extra Level of Security.

Allowing pets in your rental properties can significantly expand your tenant pool and boost tenant retention. However, it also introduces a layer of liability—especially when it comes to dog breeds that insurance companies flag as high-risk.

If you aren’t careful, a dog bite incident could leave you personally exposed to massive financial payouts. Here is everything you need to know about navigating breed restrictions and protecting your investment.

The “Banned Breed” List: What Insurance Companies Look For

Homeowners and landlord insurance providers often maintain strict “restricted” or “banned” breed lists. If a tenant brings one of these breeds onto your property without proper coverage, your insurer might deny claims, cancel your policy, or raise your rates.

Most Commonly Restricted Dog Breeds:

  • Pit Bull Breeds (American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Terrier, etc.)
  • Rottweiler
  • Doberman Pinscher
  • Chow Chow
  • Wolf Hybrids
  • Akita
  • Presa Canario
  • German Shepherd
  • Siberian Husky & Alaskan Malamute
  • Mastiffs (Bullmastiff, Cane Corso, Neapolitan Mastiff)
  • Great Dane
Note on Mixed Breeds & State Laws: Mixed-breed dogs containing a noticeable percentage of any restricted breed are frequently excluded as well. However, state laws are evolving—some states have passed laws restricting insurers from discriminating based solely on dog breed. Always check your local regulations.

2 Steps to Protect Yourself and Your Investment

If a potential or current tenant asks to bring a high-risk dog breed into your property, follow this step-by-step game plan to minimize your liability:

Step 1: Audit Your Own Landlord Insurance Policy

Before agreeing to host any dog, pull out your property insurance policy:

  • Check for Exclusions: Look specifically for animal liability exclusions or breed-specific restrictions.
  • Understand the Risk: If your policy excludes a breed and that dog bites a neighbor, delivery driver, or guest on your property, you could be held personally liable for medical costs and damages out of pocket.
Step 2: Require the Right Coverage from Your Tenant

Never rely on your own insurance as the primary safety net. Shift the financial risk to the tenant by requiring proper insurance before they move in:

Coverage Option
How It Works
Key Requirement
Option A: Renters Insurance with Pet Liability
Require the tenant to hold $100,000 to $300,000 in Personal Liability Coverage.
Standard renters policies often share the same breed bans as landlord policies. Demand written proof from their insurer that their specific dog breed is covered.
Option B: Standalone Canine Liability Insurance
If their main renters insurance excludes their dog’s breed, require a dedicated policy.
  

 

I opt not to host any dogs over 20lbs, which is clearly documented in the lease agreement.

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