Dog Bite Laws By State: Understanding The Differences (2026)

Understanding Dog Bite Liability: Strict Liability vs. One-Bite Rule

Dog bite laws vary by state but tend to fall into two main types. These are strict liability and the one-bite rule. Strict liability holds dog owners responsible for the injuries their animals cause, regardless of whether they displayed any type of negligence.

The one-bite rule, on the other hand, requires establishing that the dog’s owner knew or should have known the animal was dangerous because it had attacked someone before, and they failed to prevent another bite.

State-by-State Dog Bite Laws

Understanding dog bite laws by state can help you better prepare when filing a claim.

How Strict Liability Laws Protect Dog Bite Victims

Many states have adopted strict liability laws for dog bites because of how they can assist victims. In these cases, you don’t have to demonstrate that the owner was negligent, making the evidence-gathering process a bit easier.

Instead of focusing on whether the dog owner knew that their animal was dangerous, strict liability cases mainly look at the types of damages the victim could be entitled to depending on the extent of their injuries. It offers a clearer and faster path to compensation.

When Dog Owners Avoid Liability: Common Exceptions

There are some exceptions that dog bite laws allow for, both in strict liability and one-bite rule instances. One of these exceptions is if the victim provoked the animal. If you were teasing or otherwise bothering the dog, any resulting injuries could be seen as partly or fully your fault.

Another exception would be if you were trespassing at the time of the attack. The owner will likely not be held responsible for injuries you sustain if you were not on the property legally.

The owners of police or military dogs are usually exempt from any type of liability if the bite occurred when the animal was performing its official duties. That could mean while chasing an individual, trying to apprehend them or participating in an investigation.

Some jurisdictions also make exceptions for other types of working dogs. If they were herding, hunting or performing predator control services on the owner’s property when the bite occurred, the owner may be exempt from liability.

Some individuals are seen as having full knowledge of their risk of being bitten. Veterinarians and dog groomers are two examples. If a dog bites them, the animal’s owner would likely not be liable.

Local Leash Laws and Their Impact on Dog Bite Cases

Local leash laws have a significant impact on dog bite lawsuits. In many jurisdictions, breaking a leash law could make an owner responsible for breaking a safety statute. This would make them immediately liable for any resulting injuries.

Breaking leash laws can make it easier for victims to prove the owner was negligent and breached their duty of care toward other members of the public. This makes it easier to prove fault.

What Damages Can You Recover After a Dog Bite?

After sustaining a dog bite, you can recover economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages address tangible losses, beginning with medical expenses. If the injuries were significant, you can receive compensation for future care you may need as well.

Economic damages also address lost wages if you have to miss work as you recover. In instances when you can’t return to work in the same capacity, you could also receive compensation for your loss of earning potential.

Non-economic damages address losses that don’t come with clear price tags. You can receive coverage for your physical and emotional suffering, as well as your loss of enjoyment of life, if the injuries prevent you from living as you used to.

Filing a Dog Bite Claim: Time Limits and Legal Process

Beginning a dog bite claim is a complex process, and it’s not one you should delay. There are statutes of limitations you must abide by. These are timelines that dictate how long you have to file a claim. Just like other dog bite laws by state, each jurisdiction has its own statute of limitations.

To begin the legal process of holding a dog’s owner responsible, you will need to file a claim with the help of an attorney. They will gather evidence to demonstrate that you deserve compensation for your losses and calculate the damages you may be entitled to.

Negotiations with insurance companies come next. The purpose of these is to reach a fair settlement.

Get Legal Help: Connect With a Dog Bite Attorney

If you have sustained an injury because of a dog bite, you may have to pursue a personal injury claim. To have a chance to recover your full losses, you need an attorney by your side. At ConsumerShield, we can assist you in connecting with a local lawyer. Contact our team to get started.