When good dogs have bad days who pays?

In 2022, State Farm paid nearly $211 million dollars for over 3,285 dog-related injury claims. The number of claims increased by just 26 claims compared to 2021 data, while the amount paid increased by $49 million dollars, a staggering 30%. In fact, according to data compiled by the Insurance Information Institute, homeowner insurance companies in the US paid a record high of $1.1 billion in 2022 for dog-related injuries.

While the number of dog-related injury claims in 2022 underscores the progress of educating dog owners to take responsibility for their beloved pets, the amount paid for these claims draws attention to the financial cost of a dog bite or injury claim. In addition to medical expenses, homeowners and renters insurance policies typically cover dog bite legal expenses, up to the liability limits on the policy. If the claim exceeds the limit, the dog owner is responsible for all damages above that amount out of their own pocket.

Top 10 states for State Farm dog-related claims in 2022

State Farm is a member of the National Dog Bite Prevention Week® (April 9-15, 2023) Coalition. The insurer joins the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Insurance Information Institute (Triple I), American Humane, and dog behavior expert Victoria Stilwell to draw attention to dog bites and ways to reduce injuries to people and pets.

In March 2023, State Farm and members of the National Dog Bite Prevention Coalition conducted an Ask Suzy survey of over 1,330 participants about their experience with dogs.

• 23%, nearly a quarter of participants, said they have been injured by a scratch from a dog, while 19% said they have been injured by a bite.  
   
• 17% of participants people responded “YES” their dog has either bitten them or another dog.  
   
• 11% of survey participants filed an insurance claim because of a dog-related injury.  
   
• 6% of participants have either sued or been sued because of a dog-related injury claim.

It is important to remember that just like humans, dogs are individuals, and every dog has a unique personality. While a dogs’ breed may dictate how they look, how a dog reacts in a situation isn’t guaranteed by breed or type. Even well-trained dogs can bite if they are put into the wrong situation. Responsible pet ownership is key to reducing the risk. In fact, according to the Ask Survey results, 74% of people responded there needed to be MORE awareness and education on dog bite prevention. 

Reduce the Risk of Your Dog Biting: Providing the Basics

Owning a pet is a privilege. There are a few basic needs that all pet owners should be able to provide for the health and safety of pets and the people around them.

Reduce the Risk of Your Dog Biting: Pay Attention to Your Pet

Accidents happen when people aren’t paying attention. Be aware of delivery drivers. E-commerce sales as a percentage of total retail sales have doubled in the past seven years, and many Americans are having more and more deliveries brought to their doors. These interactions have the potential for trouble, so avoid letting your dog come to the front door to greet people.

Reduce the Risk of Your Dog Biting: Changes in Pet Health and Pain

Make sure your pet is healthy. Not all illnesses and injuries are obvious, and dogs are more likely to bite if they are sick or in pain. Routine visits to the vet may pick up on early signs of illness. If you don’t have a pet medical insurance policy in place to cover illness or injury, talk to your State Farm agent or go online to learn how a Trupanion policy can help with medical expenses.

Infographics (click to view larger)