Understanding the “Dangerous Breed/Not Insured by Apartments” List

As with any form of property, landlords need insurance on property that they own. The good news is that landlord insurance is designed to keep you safe! Any liabilities or personal injuries for tenants or guests could lead to an insurance claim. Since about 1,000 people in the US suffer from dog bites every day, some insurance companies have created lists of dog breeds that are banned from coverage.

What are Apartment Breed Restrictions?

Many apartments have breed restrictions, meaning dog owners cannot own certain breeds or mixes living in their residences. Dog breed restrictions might be based on insurance company liability or breed specific legislation in the area. It is not always apartment breed restrictions, they cannot affect dog owners living in a variety of buildings or houses.

A pet owner whose beloved fur baby is on their apartment breeds restrictions list probably has a particular breed that is deemed “dangerous” or it is an “aggressive dog.” Basically apartments have breed restrictions to protect people from dog attacks and dog bites. Restricted breeds lists tend to target certain breeds like a pit bulls.

Why Do Apartments Have Dog Breed Restrictions?

While this may not apply to all dogs of a certain breed, some dog breeds are known for being more aggressive than others. On average, studies have shown that these breeds are more likely to bite and/or harm people. Insurance companies’ job is to evaluate the likeliness of an accident occurring, so if one type of dog is more likely to harm someone than other breeds, it only makes sense to ban that breed.

What Are Aggressive Dog Breeds?

Most apartment breed restrictions have weight restrictions and allow tenants to have small dog breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels or Chihuahuas. If you are apartment living with a large dog, know that certain bigger breeds might end up on a restricted dog breeds list as they are deemed “aggressive dog breeds.”

Why are some dogs considered aggressive dog breeds? Certain dog breeds are known for specific aggressive behavior, including: Excessive barking, lunging or charging at people or other animals, growling, showing teeth, and biting. While a dog’s breed does not necessarily mean they won’t exhibit these behaviors, some property managers who create apartment breed restrictions, believe there to be breeds more likely to be aggressive.

Commonly Restricted Dog Breeds

Certain dog breeds have been labeled an “increased risk” for landlords and apartment communities. Much of this has to do with a dog breed reputation, aggressive tendencies, or what they were bred for. More often than not, it is the failure of irresponsible dog owners who do not train or teach proper socialization. Let’s take a look at some of the more commonly restricted breeds at apartment complexes.

American Pit Bull Terriers

Although a strong push on social media to destigmatize pit bulls has been made, the breed is associated with more attacks than any other kind of dog. This is partially explained by their history as fighting dogs. While they can be very nice and even harmless when trained well, pit bulls can be unpredictable.

American Staffordshire Terriers

Sometimes mistaken as a pit bull,” the American Staffordshire Terrier is a wonderful companion and fantastic family pet! As a people pleaser, this breed is always ready for an adventure. However, they are also very affectionate and happy to snuggle at home on the couch. Staffordshire Terriers love to learn, and most dog owners find they earn a training certificate very easily and excel at high levels of obedience and dog sports. By nature, they are not a huge barker, but are still a very competent watchdog and family protector.

Rottweilers

Rottweilers can be possessive and unpredictable when not trained properly, and their size makes them dangerous if they decide to attack. However, with obedience training and some TLC, Rottweilers can make great service dogs!

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinschers are fierce dogs — they’re known for being alert, loyal, and fearless. This fearlessness can sometimes make them dangerous, though. Doberman Pinschers aren’t large enough to cause extreme destruction, but they can cause many injuries. They are innately energetic dogs, though, so they can make friendly playmates when socialized!

Great Dane

Many owners think Great Danes get a bad reputation for how gentle and good-natured they are. Some even consider them the “gentle giants” of dog breeds. However, these dogs are massive, so you’d better steer clear if they become aggressive. Their size alone is enough to cause some scary damage.

Chow Chow

Though dwarfed by Great Danes, these medium-sized dogs are very territorial and are sizable enough to be dangerous. If they feel threatened, they can lash out. Chow Chows are a very proud, dignified breed. This can make them a great addition to the family, and they make for loyal watchdogs!

German Shepherd

Another dog breed with mixed reviews, German Shepherds are extremely heroic and very intelligent dogs. However, they can also be very fierce and even aggressive when provoked. Training makes a big difference in this dog’s behavior and nature, so consider investing in some quality training if you’re planning on bringing a German Shepherd into your family.

While these dog breeds are unfortunately banned from many apartments, that doesn’t mean that you can’t welcome them into a home that does permit their presence. Talk to your landlord if you’re unsure of whether a certain dog breed is permitted in your apartment building. As with most dogs, some training or patience could make all the difference in your pooch’s behavior!

How Can Dog Owners Work Around Apartment Breed Restrictions When Renting?

• Although most dog owners consider their dogs family, not every apartment or landlord might welcome your furry friend. For dog owners with larger dogs, dogs on a breed restrictions list, or breeds against an apartment’s pet policy, there are some things they can do to prove that their dogs are well-behaved and worthy of apartment living!

Create a Pet Resume

• If your pet is on a breed restrictions list with a potential new property manager, it is even more important to be prepared for your pet interview! Make your case convincing by creating a list of details that shows your new landlord why your dog will be a wonderful member of the apartment community, despite their specific breed. Create a doggy resume that includes a training certificate,vet records, and pet’s medical records. Plus, share photos and videos showing your dog on their best behavior, getting enough exercise, and how well they get along with other dogs and people.

Offer to Pay an Extra Pet Deposit or Pet Rent

• If they are still not convinced, even after meeting your dog or looking over their resume, you can offer to negotiate pet deposits or offer to pay extra pet rent. Many apartment complexes have pet policies that include a fee, and it might prove how responsible you are as a dog owner and help justify a potential decision to accept your pet. If there is not a pet policy or they do not charge a fee, you can suggest one.
• Offer more than your lease’s standard pet deposit or fee, showing confidence in your and your furry friend’s future living arrangement as a tenant!

Show Training Certifications

• Besides weight restrictions on large dogs, the most common breed restrictions for apartments are because a dog is considered an aggressive breed. However, many property managers may be open-minded if you can show training certifications that your dog has earned. For a large dog or dogs that are labeled “dangerous,” proper training can prove to be a great addition to the apartment community. If you haven’t undergone certified training, look for dog trainers specializing in aggressive dog breeds or larger dogs. A certified trainer can help shape your pet into being an obedient and confident family member no matter what situation they are exposed to!

Get Pet Insurance

• Some property managers often mandate restricted dog breeds for apartments because they do not want to assume financial responsibility if something goes wrong. Showing them proof that you have researched insurance companies and obtained pet insurance or renters insurance can prove that you are a responsible pet owner. Pet insurance is also helpful if your dog is sick, potentially making very large vet bills more affordable! Talk to your landlord and see if this is an option.

Get Pet Insurance

• Unfortunately, it is not up to the landlords or the insurance companies. The following states have state legislation against certain breeds: California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Virginia.