Puppies are not infrequently purchased as holiday gifts. What better indication of love and cheer than a happy puppy with a red and green bow on its collar? But, of course, puppies grow up to be dogs — and thereby hangs a tale of risk management. I read articles here and there by veterinarians and animal trainers about which dogs have biting and discipline problems, but it's those of us in the home insurance business who have the real statistics; we pay the claims when someone gets bitten.
An article, "Which dog breeds are most likely to bite?" appeared recently in PC360. We recommend this article for anyone considering a puppy or rescue dog. And don't miss the embedded link to a more comprehensive report on the topic from the Insurance Information Institute (III).
The article lists the top seven breeds most often involved in serious biting incidents. In case you're wondering, the serious seven are husky, American bulldog, mastiff/bullmastiff, German shepherd, mixed breed, rottweiler, and pit bull. If you're thinking, "Well, these are all big dogs," I should add that chihuahua just missed the cut for this list. Small doesn't mean less biting, just less damage per bite. Frequency and severity apply in dog bites like any other risk category.
Don't think that serious dog bites are a phenomenon of poorly cared-for mutts in scruffy neighborhoods. Years ago, a friend acquired a beautiful, purebred Belgian Malinois (often classed with the very similar German shepherd, noted above). I knew this dog. He was huge, remarkably well trained, and he really liked me and tried to get all his 100+ pounds on my lap when I sat down. His owner had other dogs as well, a model canine household. One day — no one knows why — the dog attacked a neighbor girl, sank his teeth into her face, and wouldn't let go. This attack was shattering for both families and the immediate neighborhood.
Getting a cute little puppy is a major commitment in so many ways — and it's a risk management issue as well. Treat it accordingly should the occasion arise. Do your research and use the III list mentioned above as an underwriting guide.
Charles Schultz was right: Happiness really is a warm puppy. But don't leave your risk management chops at the kennel door.
Author
Dr. Gary Anderberg
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