During 2021, dog-bite and other dog-related injury claims across the U.S. increased 2.2% compared with the year prior, according to a review of homeowners insurance data by the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) and State Farm.

In total, 2021 saw 17,989 dog-bite claims nationwide, Triple-I reported, with a total of $881 million paid out. Dog bites and other dog-related injuries accounted for more than one-third of all homeowners liability claim dollars paid out last year.

Although the number of incidents ticked up, the average cost per claim saw a modest decrease (1.1%) during 2021, when the average claim for a dog bite was slightly more than $40,000. In 2020, the average claim paid out $50,245.

However, Triple-I noted that during the past decade the average amount paid on a dog-bite claim has grown 39%. The increases seen during the past 10 years can be attributed to rising medical costs, and the growing size of settlements awarded by judges and juries, according to Janet Ruiz, CPCU, AIM, director of strategic communications for Triple-I. From 2012-2021, the number of dog-related injury claims increased 9%.

While the most dangerous dog breeds often come up when discussing pets and claims, these talks are nearsighted. Triple-I reports the most dangerous type of dogs are "those that fall victim to human shortcomings, such as poor training, irresponsible ownership and breeding practices that foster viciousness."

The above slideshow details the states that saw the highest dog-related injury claims volume and costs in 2021, according to Triple-I and State Farm. In compiling the data, claims costs include dog bites as well as dogs knocking down children, seniors and cyclists, which can result in serious injuries, according to Triple-I.

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