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Dog Bite Law:

Sunshine.  Beaches.  Vacations.  The outdoors.  While the summertime naturally lends itself to spending more time outdoors, this means more time outside for your pooch as well.

While being outdoors has its benefits, under various circumstances if your dog does the unspeakable and bites someone or another pet, there are certain things you should know since dog bite laws are being enforced.  For instance, if your dog attacks an adult or child, the dog owner as construed by the dog bite law is at fault and can be prosecuted.  It’s highly recommended for dog owners to get homeowner’s or renters insurance if it’s not already in place.  One caveat, however, in particular as it relates to dog bite laws, is that not all insurance companies cover every breed like pit bulls, rottweilers, German shepherds, huskies, and Doberman pinchers. 

As a responsible dog owner, we don’t intend to instill fear, but rather educate: as it relates to dog bite laws, the first time that a canine attacks a human being is also known as the “one bite rule” or the “first bite rule” or the “first bite free” rule.  Essentially, this means that domestic animals are not injurious and does not have an inclination to behave in an injurious way.  This protects dog owners from liability for some dog bites as it relates to the dog bite law.

Granted, we’re not attorneys however the layman’s understanding is that dog bite law may differ by city and county ordinances, state law, state case law, and common law.  Overall, regardless of the state, a person (namely, the dog owner) is responsible for a dog bite if the person ordered the dog to attack the victim, made the dog attack the victim, or kept a dog that previously bit a person/demonstrated intentions to someday bite someone again.  Under the dog bite law, almost all states make a person legally liable for negligence in any injuries caused by a dog.  This also has implications relating to violate a public health and safety law such as leash law or prohibiting dogs running freely if it results in a dog bite.

Overall, the underlying importance is this: as the dog owner, you’re personally responsible for the behavior of your dog.  The leash is important as is your dog’s behavior. If you notice that your dog seems to be aggressive, in particular in the summer months while there are people and other animals in the neighborhood, it may be time to train your dog again.  Please be aware of your dog’s behavior to create a healthy and safe environment for you and your pet.

At The Dog Bowl, nothing is more important than your pets’ health and well being.  For more information about dog bite law, leashes, and training your dog click here!