I also read the article in Dog Fancy, it's in the December issue, on page 13.
The list includes Airedale, Akita, Malamute, Pit Bull, Chow, Dalmation, Doberman, German Shepherd, Great Dane, Presa Canario (which is the dog someone mentioned that they couldn't remember the name of), Rottweiler, Husky, Staffie, wolf hybrids, and any mixes of these breeds.
The article states that the insurance companies have every right to do this. I know our insurance (which is State Farm) says no Dobermans, Rotties, or Pit Bulls (we have let to have told them about Jada). It gives you a few tips on what to do also.
I am taking these directly from the magazine article, as written by Gregory Dennis, J.D.
1) Contact your insurer to see if you can retain your coverage. For instance, if your dog is neutered or spayed; remains in a fenced yard or goes out only when leashed; has successfully completed socialization classes and obedience training, has an AKC Canine Good Citizen certificate; and has no history of biting or attacking, ask your agent to visit your home. He our she should examine your fencing and observe your dog's temperament and social skills, and talk to neighbors about your dog. Then, provide documentation of the above, and ask if the company will issue a rider covering your dog, possibly with a higher premium.
2) Shop around for other companies willing to issue a policy. If you find an insurance company in another state, confirm with your state government insurance agency that the company is authorized to sell liability insurance in your state.
3) Ask if your insurance company will continue to insure you while excluding your dog from the policy. (This is potentially risky. If you do not have liability insurance, an injury happens, and a judgment is entered in favor of the injured party, then he or she can collect on the judgment by garnishing your wages, bank accounts, property, and assets. If you live in a town that mandates insurance, you may be subject to a municipal court fine, jail time, and/or seizure and/or destruction of your uninsured dog.)
4) Before getting a dog, check with your insurer to see if the breed is excluded. If so, ask if some exception would permit you to get coverage (such as the actions similar to those described in number 1 above.
5) Consider contacting your state insurance agency and legislative representatives to report your attempts to get liability insurance covering your dog. Request changes in the state's insurance law so that owners of so-called "banned" breeds can get coverage.
Emily, Kito, Abbey, Riley, and Jada
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