How To File A Dog Bite Lawsuit In Texas (2025)
Contributor
Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
Summary
- In Texas, dog bite lawsuits may be strict liability or negligence claims
- Owners are strictly liable if they knew of the dog’s aggressive tendencies
- A dog bite lawyer can help you understand your legal options
Dogs might be man’s best friend — but when they attack, they can cause devastating physical and psychological damage. If you’ve been attacked, a dog bite lawsuit in Texas could help you recover the compensation you deserve.
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Texas Dog Bite Laws Explained
If you’re thinking about filing a dog bite lawsuit, it may be helpful to understand Texas dog bite laws. Many states are classified as “strict liability” or “one-bite rule” states. Technically, Texas is a “one-bite state.” However, Texas dog bite laws are uniquely complex.
Types of Claims in Texas Dog Bite Lawsuits
In Texas dog bite lawsuits, there are two main types of claims:
Strict Liability Claims
A dog owner who knows their dog can be dangerous or aggressive may be held strictly liable for a bite. This means they are liable even if they didn’t act negligently.
Negligence Claims
If you suffer a dog bite and the dog showed no prior signs of aggression, the owner can’t be held strictly liable. However, if they acted negligently and their negligence contributed to the bite, they may still be liable.
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The One-Bite Rule and Its Limitations
The “one-bite rule” requires the plaintiff in a dog bite lawsuit to prove that the defendant knew (or should have known) the dog was likely to cause harm. For instance, if you’re at a neighbor’s home and their dog attacks you unprovoked, you likely won’t be able to recover damages unless you can prove they knew the dog to be dangerous.
However, if the owner is negligent in handling their dog (like if they allow the dog to be loose in public) and a bite results, the injured person could file a dog bite lawsuit in Texas.
Who Can Be Held Liable in Dog Bite Cases?
Typically, the owner is liable. However, if a landlord knows a tenant has a dangerous dog and allows it to stay, the landlord could be liable for future bites.
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Compensation and Damages Available
In a dog bite lawsuit in Texas, you may recover damages like these:
- Medical bills
- Lost income due to the injuries
- Pain and suffering
- Psychological pain from disfigurement
- Lost earning capacity
Dog bite cases are highly individualized. The best way to know your case’s worth is to consult a lawyer.
Legal Deadlines and Statute of Limitations
In Texas, the statute of limitations for a dog bite lawsuit is two years. However, you should still consult a lawyer well in advance of the two-year time limit.
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Need Legal Help?
If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you should contact a Texas personal injury lawyer with dog bite experience. ConsumerShield focuses on matching injured people with nearby legal help. Fill out our contact form for a free case review!
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Frequently Asked Questions
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In some cases, yes. “Lillian’s Law” allows owners to face criminal charges if their known dangerous dogs cause serious injury or death.
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Most cases are settled out of court, but there’s a chance your case could go to trial.
