Haris Ashley
Home insurance companies often ban certain dog breeds to minimize the risk of having to pay out expensive liability claims. Basset Hounds are known for their agreeable, easygoing and laid-back nature, and are considered a low-risk breed by insurance companies. This means that Basset Hounds are generally an acceptable breed for homeowners insurance, and may even qualify for home insurance discounts. However, it is important to note that insurance policies vary by state and company, and some companies may still deny coverage to Basset Hounds with a history of biting.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nature | Easygoing, patient, charming, laid-back, friendly, gentle, agreeable, loyal, low-key |
| Health | Relatively healthy, prone to ear infections, glaucoma, thrombopathia, and mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) |
| Life Expectancy | 12-13 years |
| History | Descendent of the St. Hubert Hound, which is an ancestor of the modern-day bloodhound |
| Breed Recognition | Recognized by the American Kennel Club since 1885 |
| Breed Standard | Heavy bone structure, powerful legs, large paws, great stamina, excellent sense of smell, low to the ground |
| Training | Challenging due to heightened sense of independence, requires extra consistency and patience |
| Exercise | Requires regular exercise such as daily walks to stay healthy and prevent obesity |
| Liability | May be covered under the personal liability section of homeowners insurance, but some companies may exclude certain breeds or have breed restrictions |
| Insurance Options | Homeowners insurance, umbrella insurance, canine/pet liability insurance, specialized pet insurance |
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What You'll Learn
- Basset hounds are considered low-risk by insurance companies
- Their agreeable temperament makes them less likely to be aggressive
- Basset hounds are not banned by breed-specific legislation
- They are unlikely to be blacklisted by insurance companies
- Basset hounds are not among the commonly restricted breeds
Basset hounds are considered low-risk by insurance companies
Basset Hounds are considered a low-risk breed by insurance companies. Their friendly and easygoing nature makes them less likely to be aggressive or bite, which positively influences the terms and costs of coverage. Their popularity and reputation can also result in lower premiums for homeowners.
While dogs are a beloved addition to many households, they do add risk when it comes to insurance. Dog bites can be costly, with medical expenses for such claims averaging $49,025 in 2021 and $58,545 in 2023. This is why home insurance companies ask about dog ownership and why certain breeds are considered higher risk and may be banned by insurance companies or face higher premiums.
Insurers are always looking to minimize risk, and certain breeds are more likely to be banned or face higher premiums, whether fairly or not. These are usually more ""aggressive" and "dangerous" dogs that are more likely to cause costly damage if they bite. This perception of increased risk is largely based on statistics showing that these breeds are involved in more bite incidents and severe injuries.
However, Basset Hounds are not considered one of these high-risk breeds. Their agreeable temperament and laid-back nature make them a beloved and popular choice for many families. Their heavy bone structure, powerful legs, large paws, and great stamina also contribute to their unique and distinctive appearance.
If you are a Basset Hound owner, it is still important to shop around and compare coverage with multiple companies, as policies and breed restrictions can vary. Additionally, if your Basset Hound has a history of biting, you may need to sign a liability waiver or even be denied coverage altogether. Overall, however, Basset Hounds are considered a low-risk breed by insurance companies, and their presence in a home is not typically a cause for concern when it comes to homeowners insurance.
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Their agreeable temperament makes them less likely to be aggressive
Home insurance companies may deny coverage for certain dog breeds, especially those with a history of biting or those perceived as aggressive and dangerous. This is because dogs increase the risk of injury claims, with the average cost of a dog bite claim being $49,025 in 2021 and $58,545 in 2023.
Basset Hounds, however, are known for their agreeable temperament and are included in the list of dog breeds that often enjoy home insurance discounts. Their easygoing and laid-back nature makes them less likely to be aggressive, and they are described as loyal to family members and friendly with other dogs. While training can be challenging due to their independence, they are still considered relatively easy to care for.
The agreeable temperament of Basset Hounds is further supported by their history. The breed originated in France and Belgium, where they were bred by friars of the Abbey of St. Hubert, who crossed older French breeds to create a low-built hound with a powerful sense of smell and the ability to traverse rough terrain. This history of selective breeding for specific traits, rather than aggression or protection, contributes to the Basset Hound's agreeable nature.
Additionally, Basset Hounds have unique physical characteristics, such as their heavy bone structure, powerful legs, and large paws, and, most notably, their long and droopy ears. Their distinctive appearance, combined with their agreeable temperament, has contributed to their steady popularity. They have been featured in various media, including the cover of Time magazine in 1928 and an advertising campaign for Hush Puppy shoes in the 1960s.
In conclusion, Basset Hounds are less likely to be aggressive due to their agreeable temperament, which is shaped by their breeding history and unique physical traits. This agreeable nature makes them a favourable breed for homeowners insurance, as they are perceived as low-risk and are often eligible for insurance discounts.
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Basset hounds are not banned by breed-specific legislation
Breed-specific legislation (BSL) is permitted or enacted in 21 US states, while 13 states have laws prohibiting BSL. BSL is the blanket term for laws that either regulate or ban certain dog breeds to decrease dog attacks on humans and other animals. The effectiveness and fairness of BSL are subjects of ongoing debate, and leading animal welfare and veterinary organizations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the ASPCA, oppose it. There is no evidence that breed-specific laws make communities safer, and they can negatively impact both dog and owner welfare.
While Basset Hounds are not banned by breed-specific legislation, it is important to note that insurance companies are not always open about the breeds they ban. Therefore, it is advisable to check with individual insurance companies regarding their policies on Basset Hounds or any other specific breed.
If you are unable to find an insurance company that accepts your dog's breed, alternative insurance options are available. One option is an umbrella insurance policy with another carrier, which offers excess liability coverage beyond the limits of your home or car insurance policy. Another option is a canine liability or pet liability insurance policy, which would take the place of your homeowners' liability coverage in the event of a claim.
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They are unlikely to be blacklisted by insurance companies
Basset Hounds are unlikely to be blacklisted by insurance companies. In fact, they are often considered to be low-risk by insurance providers due to their friendly nature and low likelihood of aggression. Their easygoing and laid-back temperament makes them a popular choice for families, and they are known for being loyal and patient.
While some insurance companies do have breed restrictions, Basset Hounds are not typically among the banned breeds. The decision to blacklist certain breeds is influenced by various factors, including media portrayal, past payouts, underwriter experiences, and bite incident reports. Larger dog breeds are more likely to be banned due to the potential severity of bites.
Insurance companies are not always transparent about the specific breeds they ban, making it challenging for homeowners to choose a suitable provider. However, Basset Hounds are generally not on the restricted list, so you can feel confident when seeking homeowners insurance with this breed.
It is worth noting that even if your Basset Hound has a history of biting, some insurance companies may still deny coverage or require a liability waiver. This is because dog bites can lead to costly medical bills and settlements, increasing the risk for insurance providers. Nonetheless, Basset Hounds are not typically associated with aggression, so the likelihood of facing such issues is lower compared to more aggressive breeds.
In conclusion, Basset Hounds are unlikely to be blacklisted by insurance companies due to their gentle and easygoing nature. While breed restrictions do exist, Basset Hounds are not usually among the banned breeds, making it easier for owners of this breed to find suitable homeowners insurance.
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Basset hounds are not among the commonly restricted breeds
While some insurance companies restrict certain dog breeds, Basset Hounds are not among the commonly restricted breeds. In fact, Basset Hounds are known for their easygoing and laid-back nature, and they are considered low-risk by insurance companies. Their friendly nature and low likelihood of aggression often result in potential home insurance discounts.
The decision to restrict certain dog breeds is based on a variety of factors, including breed-specific legislation (BSL), local city and county bans, and the dog's size and reputation for aggression or dangerous behaviour. Large dog breeds are more likely to be banned due to the severity of bites. Basset Hounds, despite their powerful build and short legs, are not considered large breeds and are not typically associated with aggression.
Insurance companies are not always transparent about the specific breeds they restrict, making it challenging for homeowners to choose a suitable provider. However, Basset Hounds are not among the breeds that are frequently banned or restricted by homeowners insurance companies.
If you are a Basset Hound owner and are seeking homeowners insurance, you may still want to take precautions. Research insurance companies that are known to be dog-friendly and evaluate their policies regarding breed restrictions. Consider shopping around and comparing coverage and restrictions across multiple companies. Additionally, consider alternatives such as umbrella insurance policies or canine liability insurance, which can provide excess liability coverage or specialized coverage for your dog, respectively.
Overall, Basset Hounds are not among the commonly restricted breeds for homeowners insurance. Their temperament and reputation as low-risk companions work in their favour when it comes to insurance policies. Nevertheless, it is essential to be proactive and well-informed when navigating the insurance landscape as a Basset Hound owner.
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Frequently asked questions
Basset Hounds are not considered an aggressive breed. They are known for their easygoing and laid-back nature, as well as their agreeable temperament. They are loyal to family members and are patient and charming.
Basset Hounds are not considered a high-risk breed by insurance companies. They are often viewed as low-risk due to their friendly nature and low likelihood of aggression. This perception can positively influence the terms and costs of liability coverage.
Yes, Basset Hounds are likely to be covered by your homeowner's insurance policy. They are not typically included on restricted breed lists, and insurance companies often consider them low-risk. However, it is important to note that policies can vary by state and carrier, so it is always best to check with your insurance provider.
While Basset Hounds are generally considered low-risk, certain factors might impact your insurance coverage. For example, if your Basset Hound has a history of biting or has caused damage to your property, you may need to sign a liability waiver or even be denied coverage. Additionally, some insurance companies may have restrictions based on the size of the dog, and Basset Hounds are considered large dogs by some standards. It is important to disclose all relevant information about your pet to your insurance provider to ensure adequate coverage.
