But looks can be deceiving. Dogs of any size or breed could inflict serious damage, leading to large insurance claims.
Over the past 14 years, canine-related injuries - from bites to accidents caused by dog frights - have caused claims to jump 90 percent, according to an annual survey by the Insurance Information Institute (III) and State Farm, the largest U.S. home insurer. Each claim averages $37,051, up from $19,162 in 2003.
Dog bites fall under the liability section of homeowners or renters insurance policies, which typically provide about $100,000 in coverage.
But only about 37 percent of tenants take out a renters insurance policy, which costs about $20 per month. Many more incidents go unreported to insurance companies.
Inadequate coverage can invite lawsuits. Attorneys like Ken Phillips, who specializes in dog-related cases, runs a website for plaintiffs and other lawyers (dogbitelaw.com). He also sues landlords for tenants without renters insurance.