The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that dogs bite 2% of the population in the country every year, and between 1979 and 1996, 304 people died due to fatal dog attacks. Ehline Law and our dog bite attorneys have been working with injured dog bite victims since 2005, protecting their rights and helping them get the compensation they deserve.

Contact our experienced dog bite attorneys if you’ve suffered injuries in a dog attack in California to learn more about your legal options.

Top Biting Dog Breeds: Which Dog Breeds Bite the Most?

While all dogs have the tendency to be aggressive when provoked, certain dog breeds are more likely to bite or attack others if not appropriately trained. 

Here is our list of dog breeds more likely than others to bite or attack a human or another animal.

Border Collies

Considered to be a highly intelligent dog breed, Border Collies are known to herd and protect livestock on farms and are not afraid to use their teeth if necessary. 

Although these gentle and loving dogs are also used as therapy dogs, they can get a bit aggressive while playing with their owners. When around children, a bite or two may lead to serious injuries, which is why it is essential always to discipline Border Collies to avoid such issues.

Jack Russell Terriers

Although Jack Russell Terriers are small dogs, it is essential to remember that they were initially bred to hunt and kill rats. Hunting and biting run in their DNA, and they are very protective of their owners, to the point where they’re not afraid to show their aggression towards others. Early training and socialization at a young age can help minimize these tendencies and make them more docile.

Siberian Huskies

If you’re looking for a dog as a pet and it’s your first time owning a pet, stay clear of Siberian Huskies. They look gorgeous, and all the videos you may have seen on YouTube may tempt you to get one, but these are a tough breed of dogs to work with. 

Although they’re very intelligent, Siberian Huskies are incredibly rowdy and destructive even if you train them properly. They can be naughty with owners and aggressive toward strangers by biting them.

Rottweilers

Rottweilers are a highly misunderstood dog breed and have a serious reputation for being aggressive. They’re best to herd and protect livestock, but some homes keep Rottweilers as pets due to their loyalty towards their masters and family members. 

Contrary to what many believe, this dog’s breed is extremely gentle if they’re properly trained and receive sufficient attention.

Chihuahuas

Whether it’s an inferiority complex or asserting dominance, Chihuahuas are not afraid to bite their owners or strangers. They’re very independent dogs, and if trained at an early age, owners can minimize the negative traits associated with Chihuahuas.

German Shepherds

German shepherds have many traits making them the most versatile dogs on this list. From border patrols using them to sniff out drugs to police carrying out an investigation with the help of a German Shepherd, they are intelligent and loyal dogs.

Many dog owners don’t realize that German Shepherds need a lot of exercise and large homes to stay happy. These dogs may get cranky if neglected or don’t have sufficient room to move around. Although they’re not aggressive compared to others on the list, they may make a mistake once in a while and leave a nasty bite.

Cocker Spaniels

Cocker spaniels are extremely docile dogs but have many different personalities, making them difficult for owners to work with. As puppies, they’re very nippy and can leave a mark or two, but as they grow old, they become more intelligent, energetic, and friendly, especially around children.

Tosa Inus

Bred for fighting, Tosa Inus is one of the dog breeds banned in the United Kingdom due to their nasty bite. Although they can become gentle dogs if adequately trained at an early age, training Tosa Inus can be highly challenging.

As Tosa Inus become adults, they are loyal to their owners, which can make them aggressive towards strangers and other dogs or animals if threatened.

Chow Chows

Very social and outgoing breed, chow chows are clever dogs and great as pets. They are intensely territorial and have a naturally dominant personality.

Originally, chow chows were guard dogs for homes and livestock, meaning they could leave a nasty bite if they felt they or their owner was in danger.

Pit Bull Terrier

Pit bull terriers are not naturally aggressive or dangerous dogs, but due to neglect, lack of training, and abuse, they can become extremely dangerous dogs. 

Highly misunderstood, the United Kingdom continues to ban pit bull terriers while they are still popular pets in the USA. Bred for fighting or guarding the lairs of gang bangers and drug dealers, pit bull terriers have a nasty reputation which makes many forget that these breeds also have some of the most positive characteristics, such as loyalty, obedience, and intelligence.

Dog Bite Statistics in the United States

According to DogBites.org, there were 48 fatal dog attacks in the country in 2019 involving 13 child victims, more than a 33% increase over 2018. California has the most dog bite cases, with 2,166 claims made in the state in 2018, totaling $98.6 million in payouts.

Avoiding Dog Bites

If you’re a dog lover, it’s understandable that you want to pet any dog that walks past you. However, it is also essential to know that such affection towards dogs can one day end up in dog bites if you’re not careful.

Here are two ways to help avoid dog bites and keep yourself and your family safe around animals.

Check the Dog’s Body Language

Before petting a dog, you should assess the situation and the dog’s body language. If they’re growling, licking their lips, or have perked-up ears, or dilated pupils, it’s best to stay clear, as these are signs of impending aggression.

Educate Children on Interacting with Dogs

Children are more likely to interact with pets than other age groups, which makes them the most vulnerable to dog bites. Parents need to educate their children on how to interact safely with dogs.

Many children believe that reaching their hand out to pet the dog is the best way to interact with them, but what they don’t realize is that they’re invading their personal space. Let the dog reach out to the child and decide to interact with them rather than the other way around.

Dog bite injuries can leave a sting and lead to an infection if the victim does not receive proper medical attention. In some cases, a dog may cause severe wounds on the arms and legs. A dog bite incident not only leaves physical injuries but also is an emotionally traumatizing experience. A child who suffers a dog bite may take years to recover from the trauma; in some cases, they may never, which can adversely affect their life.

Dog bite victims may require therapy to overcome the fear and skin grafting surgeries to minimize the disfigurement, which can cost the family a lot of money. It is crucial that they speak to an experienced dog bite attorney to learn more about their legal options.

Can Dog Bite Victims Pursue a Dog Bite Lawsuit?

A dog bite lawsuit is a civil action brought against the dog owner for the injuries sustained in a dog attack. It compensates the victim by holding the dog owner responsible for the damages, and the victim pursues legal action to become “whole again.”

Whether or not injured victims can bring dog bite lawsuits depends on the state’s law. There are two types of states when it comes to dog bites, and these are as follows.

One-bite Rule

Some states have a one-bite rule, meaning that if the dog bite was the first incident of dangerous behavior by the dog, the victim might be unable to pursue a dog bite claim.

Under the one-bite law, the owner gets a free pass for the injuries caused by their dog if it’s the animal’s first time. However, if the owner was negligent in preventing the dog attack, the victim may be able to bring a negligence claim against the dog owner.

Although these are often challenging to pursue, an experienced personal injury attorney can provide the guidance and assistance required to hold the negligent dog owner responsible for your injuries.

Strict Liability

In some states, including California, dog bites fall under strict liability. Injured victims in such states can pursue dog bite claims regardless of the dog’s viciousness or prior history of dog attacks. 

To have a valid dog bite lawsuit in California and other strict liability states, injured victims must prove that the dog attacked them without provocation and suffered damages due to the dog attack.

Who Is Liable for Dog Bite Injuries?

Dog Owner’s Liability

Typically, the dog owner is liable for any damages arising from the animal’s attack. In most cases, the dog owner will have insurance, such as homeowners, renters insurance, or umbrella coverage, that provides coverage for dog attacks.

Most dog bite cases settle outside of court as it is the quickest and cheapest dispute resolution method for the insurance company and the victim. However, it may be best to pursue a dog bite lawsuit in court and recover maximum compensation in some dog bite cases.

A skilled dog bite attorney can evaluate your case and guide you on which option is the best for you.

Landlord’s Liability

The landlord may be responsible for a dog bite incident in some situations. If a landlord renting out the property knows there is a dangerous dog on their land and fails to take necessary action, they may be liable for the damages in case of dog bites.

Recoverable Damages in a Dog Bite Lawsuit

Dog bites can lead to serious and, in some cases, fatal injuries, for which injured victims may recover compensation. However, the damages may vary from one dog bite case to another.

Typically, injured dog bite victims may recover the following damages following the dog attacks:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress.

When pursuing a dog bite lawsuit, you must prove the extent of your injuries and the damages incurred. An experienced dog bite attorney can help gather the necessary evidence to prove your damages and obtain compensation for your loss.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Ehline Law

Ehline Law and our personal injury attorneys have more than 15 years of experience handling dog bite claims in California. Our award-winning attorneys have been invited by some of the largest media channels, such as NBC, CBS, and others, to discuss dog bite laws and create awareness on the topic.

If you’ve suffered injuries in a dog bite attack in California, contact us at (833) LETS-SUE for a free consultation, as you may be able to seek compensation.

Rotties – Second Only to Pit Bulls in the Number of Attacks?

Yep. Rotties are rated number two behind Pits. Like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers have been specifically bred as guard dogs over thousands rather than hundreds of years. Rottweilers, like Pit Bulls, have been explicitly bred as guard dogs and working dogs for thousands of years. Similarly, the Akita had been bred to fight against bears.

Were you or a loved one attacked by an out-of-control Rottweiler? Unfortunately, some dog owners teach their Rottweilers to be attack dogs, which often has severe consequences for society, kids, and strangers.

Additionally, owners need to train their drover dogs properly in certain instances. As a result, these Mastiff-like dogs may rely on instinct in some situations, and it can result in a dog bite. Females will protect male owners more, and males will guard females owner more, to death. Furthermore, most Pit Bulls are lean animals and great for bull baiting, bear hunting, and Akitas. These canines are very adorable and can show affection.

However, many Pit Bull owners alter their pups to give them a vicious look and abuse them, starting as puppies. Therefore, these highly clever dogs may be more likely to attack than other breeds if they lack a responsible master, especially while they eat. No two dogs of any breed are of the exact nature, despite being the second-smartest breed after German Shepherds.

However, statistically, the breed significantly impacts the number of dog bites by humans. And even the likelihood of a fatal attack is more common than the capable, more affectionate German Shepherd. The truth is that this fact remains a constant even with proper care over an extensive period. This is why a rescue dog is only sometimes the best choice to try and socialize.

True, properly cared-for dogs tend to take on calm characteristics shared by their owners. But like wolf hybrids, protecting and being dominant appear hard-wired in these animals. So a screaming toddler can be killed if the dog is mistreated or even during playful circumstances. Some dogs think victim fear means a fight is prone to begin, especially when in packs or a female dog is in heat.

Pit Bull Is Just One Dangerous Dog Breed That Can Cause Serious Damage

The stocky Pit Bull, wiry Doberman, and muscle-bound Rottweiler breeds, among other dogs, are often included on lists of “dangerous dog breeds.” Hence, many people prefer not to adopt them as a family dog and opt for other animals as they pose a threat. The Rottweiler is particularly harmful to frail adults and young children because of its long line of breeding and its powerful jaws and claws. A Forbes article claims that Rottweilers are the second-deadliest breed of dogs involved in attacks in America, including to their dog owner.

Rotts Take Two in Life Lost?

Between 2005 and 2017, according to statistics compiled by the CDC, the breed was accountable for 29 fatal dog attacks across the country, classifying it among the most dangerous breeds of aggressive dogs. Additionally, throughout this time and beyond, Rottweilers, even the family pet, have been involved in hundreds of non-fatal incidents, especially from a very young age, mainly male Rottie dogs.

The Rottweiler, usually known as a “Rottie,” is a large to medium-sized dog with great strength and great to protect livestock. The shiny black coat of this dangerous breed, which has rusk patterns, adds to the impression of power. Like a Wolf Hybrid, Rotties are loyal dogs and faithful to their owners, yet these strong dogs tend to be a little distant from others without proper socialization, exercise, and training.

Does Training Still Play a Major Role in Keeping Rotties Calm?

Undoubtedly, proper training is important. Well-maintained dog breeds often adopt the positive, composed traits of their owners. There is, however, one thing that these large fighting dogs in serious injury cases have in common.

Rottweilers tend to be aggressive herding animals. And Pit Bulls that have been bred initially to attack or serve as security dogs for criminals are highly excitable and far more likely to attack or kill a person or other dog over their lives. The Rottweiler breed is a typical companion dog among drug dealers, who are more inclined to act in a dangerous manner commanding large dogs.

Territorial behavior is precisely what drug dealers want in a dog breed to attack intruders like cops, giving them an unpredictable, bad rap. This helps explain why many neglected dogs often end up in dog shelters, becoming a nightmare to their newly adopted families and the police. Because of this, they often get shot by police due to their aggressiveness.

Pit Bulls, Rotties, and Other Guard Dogs Are Used as Fighting Dogs

Even while law enforcement works very hard to stop dogfighting, it still occurs and is impossible to stop. Size and power are two characteristics that dog fighters want, which is why there is a long history of using Rottweilers alongside Pit Bulls, with many deaths. Anyone would feel threatened by this combination, let alone two Rottweilers or more. The hospital statistics have taught us that genetics and breed play a role.

It’s worth noting that, like the Presa Canario, these dangerous dogs are often raised in appalling conditions and are trained in terrible ways. This makes them bite more, extremely aggressive (precisely what the dogfighters want), and not ideal family pets. It doesn’t help this breed’s reputation that many individuals have witnessed or at least heard about violent Rotties being used in dogfighting rings and to pull carts during Roman times.

Are Rotties as Dangerous as Other Dogs? | Bottom line

Consider how often this fighting dog breed has been misunderstood through the ages and in movies the next time you see one. It makes sense that some individuals think Rotties are dangerous, given their impressive size, intelligence, and body type. However, the reality is that male Rottweilers are calm, brave, and independent dogs with a self-assured aloofness inherited from their Bullmastiff origin. Are Rottweilers dangerous, then? The simple answer is that it depends on the owner and the dog’s bond. But yes, generally, exceptions do apply, and the prevention of attacks is never proven to be guaranteed.

Conclusion

If you encounter a Rottweiler, stay calm and remember that this dog breed and its ancestors are often misunderstood if not properly socialized. It’s natural to consider all strange dogs, including Rotties, human threats, especially to kids. Although Rottweilers can be calm and protective, you must ensure you are not a threat. Even if you love dogs, you need to find out if some Rotties are properly trained or if they are even appropriately treated to have the proper, intelligent temperament.

Be mindful of its muscular body and its fame for instigating fatal attacks, including many scenarios where a baby died at an early age as the animal/puppy was subject to constant physical punishment, making it a stubborn, deadly threat.

If you wish to learn more about dog bites, dangerous breeds, and the law, dial (213) 596-9642 to speak with a courageous, multi-million dollar dog bite lawyer familiar with behavioral problems like violence owners, families, and victims face in certain situations. Let a friend at Ehline Law Firm assist you, so you don’t blow the statute to receive a giant compensation award for the harm suffered after being bitten, knocked over, or scratched.

Ultimate Guide to Understanding Dog Bite Settlements

They are understanding California Settlements for Dog Attacks. Remember that no two dogs, bites, or victims are the same. The average dog bite settlement reported in the United States 2015 was $32,000. Some states are more expensive than a negligent dog owner or controller must pay. A few years later, in 2019, in California, the average dog bite payout was $51,264.60, with 2,396 reported insurance claims. This cost figure means that CA paid over $122.83 million in damages on behalf of the victims. (Source: State Farm and the Insurance Information Institute.)

The average dog bite settlement numbers for other states vary significantly, but the data trend towards larger dog bite settlements over time. For more information, contact our local dog bite lawyers in Los Angeles to learn how much you can expect for an average dog bite payout after forming an attorney-client relationship.

An Underlying Concern

We tend to think of dogs as man’s best friend. In many ways, this remains true. However, there are severe concerns about dog bites and the lack of discipline some owners instill in their pets. Poorly trained or untrained dogs can present a significant issue for owners and the general public. There are far too many dog bites and dog scratches annually. Attacks like this happen in California especially. Since the Golden State is the most populous, it has the most significant number of dog bites. Below, we will discuss some key issues surrounding a dog attack, specific dog bite cases, and how to handle dog bite claims.

By the end of the article, you will know more about the role of the dog bite victim and the dog owner, how to hire a dog bite attorney, and some critical info about dog bite settlements.

Common Issues with Dog Discipline

Dog bites happen every day. Each case is different and often requires a specialized personal injury lawyer. Furthermore, the average dog bite is still distinct from any other and sometimes results in severe issues.

First, we must understand the roles within a specific dog bite case. The dog bite victim and the dog owner often have different roles. In many cases, dog bites are caused by a lack of training and discipline. Without the proper training, the chances of a dog attacking a person increase dramatically.

Unfortunately, dog attacks are more likely to affect young people, especially children. In these dog attack cases, the injuries tend to be more severe. In some cases, they are even life-threatening. Bite victims are not all the same. However, more information is necessary to understand the role of dog owners and bite victims.

Types of Dog Bites

There are different types of dog bite attacks. Such dog bite cases are other, depending on the circumstances. Among the most common types of such dog bite cases, we have the following:

• Laceration is a common type of severe dog bite injury. It often follows a combination attack of both paws and the mouth. Such lacerations can be minor enough to cause severe blood loss and visible scarring.
• Puncture wounds: These are dangerous for a number of reasons. Puncture wounds from dog bites often break deep into the skin, causing several severe issues, including tissue damage and bleeding. In other cases, this often causes rabies and other infections that can take weeks or months to heal. In some cases, such poor health conditions can cause a risk of losing a limb.
• Rabies remains the most significant concern people have about dog bite attacks. In cases such as this, the risk of rabies cannot be intelligently dismissed. Rabies is a fatal disease that causes severe trouble. According to the CDC, immediate rabies vaccination is necessary; between one and two people die in the United States annually from the disease (Source CDC).
• Tearing Injuries are among the most concerning injuries and are more common in children. This type of injury combines the risks of the above injuries and dog bites.

Dog Bite Statistics

According to the CDC, almost five million Americans face dog bite injuries annually. About 42% of these cases are among children under 14. This severe risk of both dog attacks, multiplied by damages caused by age, is high. Furthermore, the risk for children is the reason for dog bite laws. California dog bite cases are especially concerning, especially considering the role of serious injuries.

First Steps after a Dog Bite

It would help to consider what to do after a dog bite attack. There are cases in which the dog owner is cooperative. You may likely need immediate medical aid. This fact remains mainly true whecasesnine bite case may sprebies.

If in doubt, get the rabies vaccine and get immediate care from a doctor. Contact your insurance company and learn more about the role of treatment after such a dog bite.

Medical care is evident. Waiting even a day for the proper care may be a severe issue. The risk of rabies is significant. The risk of infection is also a serious concern. The latter may not show up immediately but is far more likely if you cannot get the bite cleaned out and treated.

Do not skimp on medical care. Ensuring that you or a loved one receives the care you or they need is crucial. It will significantly affect the healing process after a dog bites. It could make a considerable difference in the case of medical bills and a personal injury lawsuit.

Contacting a Legal Expert

You may have plenty of questions in the aftermath of such an accident. This may be the first time you have faced such emotional distress or had to contact local animal control. Perhaps you are concerned about the role of the dog’s owner or medical expenses.

You may be recovering from severe injuries and handling everything while seeking medical attention and facing emotional trauma. We can help with your health insurance and other issues. All of these issues are challenging in themselves. You need to understand the entirety of personal injury lawsuits and the role of personal injury and negligence laws.

Different Factors

There are many factors at play. An attorney can determine whether further medical treatment is necessary or how to compensate victims. The correct personal injury attorney can offer a free consultation. It cannot be just any attorney.

Only specialized injury lawyers with experience in canine attacks can help you in your time of need. They will determine the limit of your injuries, including potential nerve damage or broken bones, and gather time-sensitive information.

They can determine whether or not the victim provoked the attack or the other factors’ roles.

Contact the Best California Dog Bite Attorney

If you have been reading through the role of dog, bite attorneys and how to handle dog bites, now is the time to understand what to do next. Even if you or your family are in emotional anguish, the Ehline Law Firm APLC is here to assist.

We understand the role of such attacks– including such viciousness, free case evaluations, and how much compensation you or your family may be entitled to. There are more than several factors at play.

Experienced Dog Bite Attorneys

The Ehline Law Firm will determine whether or not you have additional care through your medical insurance or existing renters insurance.

The experts can determine the exact amount of punitive damages– which only an experienced attorney can choose in a dog bite lawsuit. We have handled many such dog bite attacks in the past.

Our experience allows us to determine the dog’s viciousness, potential history of attacks, and who or what should be held strictly liable. We’ve handled many dog-bite lawsuits, and no dog bite lawsuit in California is too complex for us.

We have a combination of lawyers who can address strict liability issues and a wrongful death claim.

Understanding the Context of Dog Bite Attacks

According to California law, dog owners only have one shot to train their dogs and prevent further attacks properly. The one-bite rule is central to several major dog bite cases. In such cases, the owner’s knowledge is key to a dog bite lawsuit, which is often based on various dog bite laws.

Together, these will determine the correct amount for a dog bite settlement. The average dog bite settlement varies by state but often covers medical bills and future costs. An experienced dog bite lawyer understands dog bite cases from both the victim and the dog owner.

The Costs Caused by Dog Bite Injuries

Several factors influence the average expenses. Such costs will also affect the role of your insurance company and strict liability. In fact, in many cases, the medical costs for the average victim have to do with the severity of the injury.

In such cases, the expenses taken on by any family will vary. In some cases, the bites will require a rabies shot. In other cases, the injuries caused will cost lost wages. In others, extensive treatment and physical therapy will be needed.

Whom Do I Call After a Dog Bite Case?

If you are the victim, your first call should be to the doctor’s office. Dog owners should secure their animals, and if the owner knew the dog was dangerous, they had better get a criminal defense attorney. Victims will need to take an ambulance to the hospital in some cases. Make sure that medical professionals properly treat you or your loved one.

Your second should be a bite injury attorney whounderstands such a personal injury case and tcanrecover punitive damages. An attorney like the Ehline Law Firm APLC would be the best example. Our dog bite attorney can help get you an above-average settlement or verdict. We will fight hard until we win your case.

Contact Information

If you have any questions or want to learn more about the average dog bite payout in Los Angeles for your case, Ehline can be reached at info@ehlinelaw.com and discuss forming an attorney-client relationship for your settlement or trial. Call us today at (213) 596-9642.

Legal References: 

Insurance Information Institute –

• “Dog Bite Liability Claims By State – Interactive Map,” “Spotlight on Dog Bite Liability.” California Civil Code 3342 CC. See, for example, Borns v. Voss, 70 P.3d 262 (Wyo. 2003). See, e.g., Coutlakis v. CSX Transportation, Inc., 796 S.E.2d 556 (2017). Li v. Yellow Cab Co., 13 Cal.3d 804 (1975). Florida Statutes 768.81. 735 ILCS.

It’s common to feel fear and worry around other people’s pet dogs, especially after recent dog bites surfacing across the United States. According to a 2o20 study by Peter S. Tuckel & William Milczarski, on average, 1,000 residents daily bitten by dogs require medical attention or emergency care treatment.

In the same 2018 study, dog bites were one of the country’s leading causes (number 13 on the list) of nonfatal emergency department visits. A dog’s bite can lead to severe medical conditions after contracting an infection, including meningitis and septic shock, and if not treated immediately, dog bites can result in death.

Although dog bites can be terrifying, there are steps a dog owner can take to ensure the safety of others. Let’s review some precautionary measures to avoid dog bites with Ehline Law and our dog bite personal injury attorneys.

Dog Bite Prevention: What Steps Should Dog Owners Take

Most dog bites involve familiar dogs, which is why dog owners must take the following steps.

Inadequate Care

Many dog owners are busy in their daily routines that they fail to train and exercise their dogs, making them more aggressive. Taking your dog out for short walks is not enough physical activity for many dog breeds, affecting their attitude and behavior towards others.

Notice Behaviors

Dog owners should always be on the lookout for depression or concerning signs such as excessive barking and restlessness. The lack of physical and mental stimuli can change a dog’s behavior.

Do Your Research

If you don’t have a pet dog and are considering buying one, you must conduct your research into the dog breed that would be perfect for you. For example, if you’re unavailable most of the time, you shouldn’t consider purchasing or adopting a Labrador Retriever as they are highly social dogs.

After getting a pet dog, the owner must start their training. The trainer can help the dog overcome aggressive behavior or negative habits within the first 12 months by rewarding manners and following routines.

Socialize Your Dog

Socializing makes dogs comfortable and more friendly. Under-socialized dogs put their owners and others at risk as they often remain in fear, making them more likely to bite someone. To increase familiarity, dog owners must ensure that their puppies socialize with other pets and people and interact with objects.

Supervise Your Dog

No matter how much you train your dog, you cannot risk leaving them alone. Interactions with aggressive animals or humans can coerce your dog into biting them. Make sure you’re with your pet, even in a fenced environment.

Understanding a Dog’s Body Language Is Important for Everyone

Dogs are emotional creatures who exhibit happy, angry, curious or threatened feelings. Everyone needs to understand these signs to help them avoid aggressive contact with their own or someone else’s dog. The first step to preventing dog bites is to recognize the situation.

An aggressive dog will have their ears up to make them look bigger, while an anxious dog will lower their head to make them look smaller. A mixture of body language could indicate that the dog is feeling confused.

When meeting an unfamiliar dog, always ask its owner for permission to pet the animal. Once you receive permission to pet, let the animal sniff your hand first to let them know you’re not a threat. Start by petting the dog gently on the shoulder.

Practicing dog bites safety tips can help prevent any unfortunate possible dog bite incidences. If you feel threatened by an unknown dog, stay still, do not run away, do not make direct eye contact, and ignore the animal. If they knock you down, immediately cover your face and head using your arms, and when the dog loses interest, back away slowly until the dog is no longer in your view.

Under the dog bite law in the United States, dog owners should practice responsible dog ownership and take reasonable measures to ensure that their dog doesn’t bite anyone. Some states follow the “one-bite rule” while others don’t, putting dog owners in serious trouble if they bite someone.

If you suffered injuries from a dog bite, contact us at (833) LETS-SUE for a free consultation, as you may qualify for compensation.

Are Dogs Always Put Down After a Serious Dog Bite Attack?

In the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are over 4.5 million cases of dog bites, with 800,000 requiring serious medical attention.

Dogs are not put down after each and every attack. There are circumstances where the responsibility does not belong to the dog or its owners. In other cases, there is unclear risk or evidence. In yet other cases, owners may voluntarily have their dog put down. Not every case is clear-cut.

However, California law attempts to make the decision a bit easier, even if the situation is very difficult. This often has to do with several factors, including the risk that the dog could attack again. The higher the risk of the dog, the higher the chance that it will be put down.

Depending on the state you’re residing in, a dog owner could be responsible for their pet’s actions, even if the dog doesn’t always have a history of aggression. Although dog bites can be severe to humans, they can have serious repercussions for the animal and its owner.

Let’s go over one of the main concerns dog owners and animal rights advocates have following a dog bite, “when is dog euthanasia mandated by law” with Ehline Law and our California dog bite lawyers.

Are Dogs Euthanized after Every Attack?

Not all dogs or companion animals are put down after every attack, as euthanization in one state may only be discretionary in another.

Some dog owners even voluntarily allow the state to perform euthanasia in a humane manner following a severe dog bite incident.

Euthanasia as a Major Tool

Unfortunately, there are only so many options for the victims of a major dog attack. When it comes to the dog itself, there are often two choices– reform or death. The animal might be a severe risk to people following such an attack. This is especially the case if the dog has a recorded history of attacking other people.

Often, there are two strikes, and you are out of the rules. California law is very clear about this. Take it straight from the law here.

There are two cases where dogs are usually put down:

1. It is the second time that the dog has attacked a person.
2. The owner trained the dog to attack.

And if the owner knew the dog’s danger or trained it to do violence, the penalties are severe:

Any person owning or having custody or control of a dog trained to fight, attack, or kill is guilty of a felony or a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment in a county jail not to exceed one year, or imprisonment pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 1170 for two, three, or four years, or by a fine not exceeding ten thousand dollars ($10,000), or by both the fine and imprisonment, if, as a result of that person’s failure to exercise ordinary care, the dog bites a human being, on two separate occasions or on one occasion causing substantial physical injury. (Learn more)

Furthermore, there are severe civil implications, too. The victim often sues the dog owner following an attack. Knowing the dog’s risk increases the chance of a successful suit. In addition, it increases the chance the police euthanize the dog.

More California Rules on Dangerous Dogs

Dog bite victims have several options they can pursue, including a dog bite claim and a personal injury lawsuit in civil court. However, dogs, on the other hand, do not get to choose.

Under dangerous dog laws in the majority of states, the owners must take preventive measures following a dog attack. However, the judge may decide to pass orders to humanely destroy the dog if it believes the animal poses a severe risk to public health, safety, and welfare.

Determination of a “Dangerous Dog” At Animal Shelter

When the dog attacks someone, a law enforcement officer has the right to confiscate the animal. Before the state puts down the dog, an animal control warden or administrator must determine whether the dog is dangerous, which involves putting them in a county pound or an animal shelter with a licensed veterinarian. However, some states allow law enforcement officers to shoot animals in emergencies.

In California, the definition of a potentially dangerous animal includes:

• Domesticated animal or any animal, when unprovoked, bites a human being.
• Any dog that bites a person on two separate occasions within 36 months.
• Any dog that engages in behavior on two separate occasions within 36 months requires defensive action from a reasonable person.

The definition of a vicious dog involves a dog biting another person when unprovoked leading to a serious injury.

Once they believe that the dog is dangerous, the humane society or animal shelter euthanasia technician can proceed to euthanize the animal. In some states, these technicians must have met certain hours of training, while in a few states, non-certified employees at animal shelters can proceed with euthanizing the dog.

California’s laws on dangerous dogs are pretty straightforward, two strikes and the state euthanize the dog. In California, dogs are often put down if it has a previous history of attack or if the dog owner trained their pet to be violent.

In cases where the dog owner trains their dogs to attack or knows that the dog is prone to “mischievous” behavior, authorities may hold such person responsible for recklessness and intentional harm. If the dog kills someone in such cases, officers will charge the owner with manslaughter or other criminal offense.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Ehline Law

If you suffered a serious physical injury from a dog bite, contact us at (833) LETS-SUE for a free consultation with our California dog bite attorneys, as you may qualify for compensation.