I specialize in “power breeds.” I love Rotties and Dobies. But when I applied for insurance, I saw the dreaded “Exclusion List.” It listed Pit Bulls, Presa Canarios, and Dobermans. I realized I’ve been walking these dogs for years completely uninsured.
Key Takeaways
- The Breed Exclusion List: Many commercial General Liability policies have a list of excluded breeds. If a dog on this list bites someone, coverage is $0.
- “Any Mix Thereof”: It’s not just purebreds. If the dog looks like a Pit mix, adjusters can use DNA or visual identification to deny the claim.
- You Need “No Breed Exclusion” Policies: Some carriers (like PSA or specific surplus lines) specifically market that they have “No Breed Exclusions.” You must buy these.
- Premium Difference: You will likely pay more for a policy that covers power breeds. It is worth it.
The “Why” (The Trap): High Risk Categories
Actuarial data shows that while any dog bites, bites from power breeds cause more damage (
).Cheappolicies().Cheappolicies(
200/year) keep costs low by excluding the expensive claims.
The Clause: “This insurance does not apply to ‘bodily injury’ arising out of the ownership, maintenance, or use of the following breeds…”
[IMAGE: List of breeds commonly excluded: Pit Bull, Rottweiler, Doberman, Chow Chow, Akita, Wolf Hybrid]
The Investigation: I Called Them
I asked, “I walk Pit Bulls. Will you insure me?”
1. Pet Sitters Associates (PSA)
- The Answer: “We do not have breed exclusions.”
- The Verdict: This is the gold standard for power breed walkers.
2. PCI (Pet Care Insurance)
- The Answer: Generally good, but check the specific state policy. Some surplus lines policies they use might have exclusions. Always read the PDF.
3. Business Insurers of the Carolinas (BIC)
- The Answer: No breed exclusions for Liability. However, bonding might have different rules.
Comparison Table
| Carrier | Breed Exclusions? | Cost Est. |
| PSA | None | ~$190/yr |
| Generic Business | Yes (Often) | ~$300/yr |
| State Farm | Case-by-Case | Varies |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Check Your Policy NOW: Search the PDF for “Excluded Breeds.”
- Switch Carriers: If you find a list and you walk those dogs, cancel and switch to PSA or BIC immediately.
- DNA Tests: If a client says “It’s a Lab Mix” but it looks like a Pit, ask if they have a DNA test. If it bites, the insurance will test.
- Muzzle Waivers: Your insurance might cover the breed but require you to muzzle them in public. Check the “Conditions” section.
FAQ
What about Wolf Hybrids?
Almost NOBODY insures Wolf Hybrids. They are considered wild animals in many jurisdictions. Do not walk them without specialized “Exotic/Wild Animal” insurance.
Is a Cane Corso a “Pit Bull”?
Insurers often group Mastiff breeds into the exclusionary language. Look for “Presa Canario” or “Mastiff” on the list.
Does my landlord’s ban affect my business?
If you board them at your home, yes. If you walk them at their home, no (unless your insurance excludes them).