Homeowner’s insurance and dogs: what’s actually covered.
Most dog bite claims are paid by the dog owner’s home or renter’s insurance — not out of pocket. Here’s how that coverage works, where the gaps are, and what to confirm with your insurer.
Free case review →Or call (313) 474-8203 Plain-English guide · freeWhere the money usually comes from
A dog bite claim is typically an insurance claim — not a fight over someone’s savings.
Standard homeowner’s and renter’s policies include personal liability coverage, and that coverage generally extends to injuries the policyholder’s dog causes. Liability limits commonly run from $100,000 to $300,000, and an umbrella policy can add coverage on top of that. This is why pursuing a claim against a friend, neighbor, or relative usually means accessing a policy — not coming after them personally.
Where coverage gets complicated
None of these automatically end a claim — there are often other avenues — but they’re exactly the kind of issue worth sorting out early.
If you own a dog: what to confirm with your insurer
If you’ve been bitten
You’ll usually be making a claim against the dog owner’s policy, not your own. Remember that the owner’s insurer works for the insurer — not for you. Keep your own records, don’t give a recorded statement before getting advice, and see how Michigan’s strict-liability law puts responsibility on the owner.
Related resources
Insurer giving you the runaround?
“The policy doesn’t cover it” is often wrong. The Michigan Dog Bite Law Firm knows how to find and unlock coverage — the review is free, and you pay nothing unless we win.
Get a free case review →Or call (313) 474-8203This guide is general information, not legal or insurance advice, and does not create an attorney–client relationship. Coverage varies by policy — confirm details with your own insurer.