Dog-Bite Laws and Liability Rules

Comply with the statute of limitations for dog-bite injury lawsuits, or you could lose your right to sue the animal's owner.

When a dog-bite victim and dog owner share liability for the victim’s injuries, states have different rules for deciding how much compensation the victim should receive—if they get anything.

A well-written and thorough demand letter could be the key to your dog-bite injury claim.

An outline of the general principles governing the civil and criminal liability of dog owners when their pets hurt someone—and links to find more details.

In some states, you could be liable for an injury caused by your dog only if you knew or should’ve known that the animal was dangerous.

Most states in the U.S. make dog owners financially responsible when their animals bite someone, even if the owner wasn’t negligent or didn’t know the dog could be dangerous. But there may be exceptions and conditions.

If a dog hurts someone because its owner didn’t take reasonable care to control the animal, the owner could be legally responsible for the injury.

When a dog hurts someone, its owner might be able to avoid legal responsibility based on the victim’s actions.

Someone who doesn’t own a dog may still be liable when it injures someone, depending on the circumstances and local law.

When a dog hurts someone, the animal’s owner may have to pay compensation for the victim’s past and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses.

If a dog bites someone, the owner’s liability insurance might cover the costs. But watch out for policy exclusions.

Most dog-bite disputes are settled through negotiations between the injured person and the dog owner or insurance company, but some proceed to small claims court. Here's how a typical case might unfold.

Farmers and other livestock owners may legally kill dogs that are chasing or attacking their animals, and the dog owners are responsible for any damages to the livestock.

When can a vet or groomer sue a pet owner for a bite or other injury?

State and local laws target dogs that have shown themselves to be dangerous or vicious, by placing restrictions on their owners—and sometimes by killing the animals.

Dog owners could face fines or jail time for violating legal restrictions on keeping dangerous dogs. They may also be charged with serious crimes if their animals attack and severely injure people.

So-called "breed specific" legislation is less common than it used to be, but dog owners should know how it could apply to them and their pets.

Details on when California dog owners could be legally responsible for bites and other injuries, how the state handles dangerous dogs, and more.

When are owners liable for bites, and what are the rules for dangerous dogs?

Dog owners in New Jersey could be liable in a civil lawsuit if their animals hurt someone—but they may have legal defenses.

When can Texas dog owners face lawsuits or criminal charges over injuries caused by their pets?