Dog bite insurance claims in the United States have risen by more than 25% from 2024 to 2025, according to a recent study by the Insurance Information Institute, a group that represents the insurance industry. Last year, these incidents cost the insurance industry $1.86 billion, with an average claim reaching $65,450. The study found that there were 28,450 dog bite-related claims in the U.S., with California and Florida leading in the number of claims. New York had the highest average cost per claim. Homeowners and renters insurance policies typically cover dog bites that occur on the policyholder's property, and in some cases, off the property as well. These policies often include personal liability coverage, which helps pay for the medical costs of the person bitten. The limits for this coverage can range from $100,000 to $500,000, depending on the policy. If the medical costs exceed the coverage limit, the policyholder may be responsible for the remaining expenses. Some insurance policies have restrictions based on the breed of the dog. Certain breeds are more likely to be excluded from coverage, according to insurance marketplace Policygenius. These include Akitas, Alaskan malamutes, wolf breeds, Chow chows, Doberman pinschers, German shepherds, Great danes, Pit bulls, Presa canarios, Rottweilers, Siberian huskies, and Staffordshire terriers. Policyholders should review their policies to understand what is and isn't covered. Experts recommend that victims of dog bites take immediate action after the incident. This includes taking photos of the wound, the dog, and the location of the bite, obtaining the owner’s contact information if possible, and reporting the incident to their insurance company. Seeking medical attention promptly is crucial, even if the injury seems minor, as dog bites can quickly become infected. Once the insurance company has the necessary information, it usually begins an investigation. The insurer will check if the dog was owned by the policyholder and if they are at fault for the injuries. They will also determine whether the injuries were caused by the dog or if the victim provoked the dog in any way. If a lawsuit is filed, the dog owner should contact their insurance provider immediately, as the insurer will typically assign a defense attorney or adjuster to handle the case. There are several misconceptions about dog bite claims. One is that only aggressive dogs can be the subject of a claim, but in many cases, even a dog's first bite can be covered if the owner failed to control the animal properly. Another misconception is that the dog must have a history of bites for the claim to be valid. However, in 16 U.S. states, known as "one-bite rule" states, a prior bite is not required for a claim to be made. These states include Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Kansas, Maryland, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, and Wyoming, although this list can change with new laws or regulations. The duration of a dog bite claim can vary widely, from a few weeks to several years, depending on the situation. Consumers can help expedite the process by carefully collecting information in the days following the incident. Documenting everything and following up with medical care can help keep the claim moving forward efficiently.