Dog-on-dog attacks can be traumatic, emotionally and financially devastating and legally complex. Whether you're a pet owner seeking justice or defending your furry friend, understanding the legal landscape is crucial.
Boston Dog Lawyers specializes in defending dogs and their owners in civil, criminal and administrative cases involving dog attacks. The recent paper Dog-on-Dog Attacks and the Law: Advice for Counseling Clients, co-authored by attorneys Jeremy Cohen and Sarah Mason, provides a detailed guide for navigating these difficult situations.
Understanding Liability in Dog Attacks
Laws surrounding dog attacks vary by state, with four primary legal approaches:
Strict Liability – The dog’s owner is responsible for all damages, regardless of prior behavior.
Negligence – Liability is determined based on the owner's failure to act responsibly.
Assumption of Risk – Professionals like veterinarians may not be able to sue, as they accept certain risks in their work.
The One-Bite Rule – In some states, an owner is only liable if they knew their dog had aggressive tendencies.
Defending or Pursuing a Case
If your dog is involved in an attack—whether as a victim or an aggressor—several factors come into play:
Public records can help establish an animal's history.
State and municipal hearings may determine whether a dog is labeled dangerous.
Insurance coverage (homeowner’s or even auto insurance) might impact compensation.
Civil court can award damages, typically covering veterinary bills but rarely emotional distress.
Consequences for the Dog
The aftermath of an attack often involves legal hearings that could result in:
Muzzle requirements
Mandatory fencing or containment
Training programs
Euthanasia in extreme cases
While society increasingly values pets as family members, courts remain reluctant to award non-economic damages for their loss. This gap in the legal system makes expert legal guidance essential for pet owners navigating dog attack disputes.
With dog ownership and socialization on the rise, legal battles over dog-on-dog incidents are becoming more common. Whether you need to defend your pet or seek justice, understanding the legal system’s approach to these cases is key to protecting your four-legged companion.
If you’re navigating a dog attack situation, an animal lawyer can help. At Boston Dog Lawyers, we believe that most dogs bite for a reason and that investigations into each specific circumstance is critical. Contact us today if you are in need of assistance.
You can read the full paper here:
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