The number of reported dog bites has unfortunately seen an increase in recent years, with more than 4.5 million bites occurring each year in America. In an effort to manage this and ensure the safety of residents, New York has recently introduced stricter legislation surrounding how dog bite cases are handled.
To ensure you’re informed, our dog bite law New York guide breaks down all the key information below. We’ll also discuss everything else you need to know about dog bites, including what to do if you’re bitten, some preventative tips you can take as an owner, and whether certain breeds are more dangerous than others.
Dog Bite Law New York: Explained
If an individual has been attacked and bitten by a dog, they may be entitled to compensation to cover their treatment and any other related costs. This is because owners in New York are responsible for keeping their dogs under control, and they can be held liable for injuries their dogs have inflicted.
Under New York law, the victim can pursue compensation (and ascertain liability) through various legal routes. This includes:
Previously Adjudicated as a Dangerous Dog
If the dog has previously been deemed a dangerous dog, the owner is held strictly liable for all costs associated with the victim’s injuries.
Vicious Propensities
Even if the dog was previously not deemed a dangerous dog, the owner can still be held liable if they were aware their dog had aggressive tendencies before the bite took place.
Examples of vicious propensities may include:
- Evidence of a prior attack or other aggressive tendencies (e.g., snarling, lunging, growling, or snapping)
- Complaints from neighbors about the dog’s behavior
- Concerns from pet professionals, such as veterinarians or groomers
- The dog has a history of chasing people or other animals
- The dog was trained for protection or guard work (without also being taught reasonable restraint)
Negligence
If the owner did not take precautions or handled the situation carelessly, the victim can claim that they were negligent and be entitled to recover damages. This remains a viable route regardless of whether the dog had a prior bite history or vicious propensities.
Previously, dog bite victims were not able to claim negligence in New York and could not pursue compensation through this means. However, this changed as a result of the ruling of the Flanders v Goodfellow case in 2025.
Does a Dog’s Breed Affect the Case’s Outcome?
No, the dog’s breed can not be the basis of any dog bite case or influence the outcome. The case is only based on the dog’s previous history and individual traits (e.g., vicious propensities), and the owner’s handling and care.
Are Certain Breeds More Aggressive Than Others?
No breed is inherently aggressive, but some breeds do have traits that can make them more susceptible to aggressive tendencies without the right care. A good example of this is the Rottweiler.
Their brave, protective nature is unrivaled — but it can also be their downfall. Without a firm hand and consistent training, it can quickly overwhelm them and cause them to become overly vigilant, anxious, and even potentially aggressive.
Still, that doesn’t mean you should rule out the Rottweiler entirely. With the right owner, the Rottweiler makes a loving, faithful, and loyal companion who will go to admirable lengths to keep their family safe from harm’s way.
If you’re considering adopting a Rottweiler, it’s crucial to do all you can to ensure you can keep them and those around them safe. This starts with consistent training, socialization, and ensuring their needs are met at every stage of their life.
Preventing Dog Bites in New York
Dog bites can often be prevented entirely by taking the necessary precautions. This includes measures such as:
- Keep up a regular training and socialization routine
- Meet all your dog’s needs (e.g., exercise, mental enrichment, and diet)
- Supervise your dog around other animals and people, especially young children
- Avoid areas or places that may overwhelm and trigger your dog
- Follow leash laws closely
- Ensure the backyard fence is secure
- Familiarize yourself with the warning signs of aggression
- Prevent strangers from petting or interacting with your dog
- Invest in gear like a durable harness and muzzle if necessary
What to Do if I’m Bitten by a Dog in New York?
If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog in New York, it’s important to take immediate action, regardless of how severe the bite is.
- Get Medical Help: This ensures you’re getting the appropriate treatment and that your injury is noted in your medical records.
- Document the Injury: Take photos, obtain the contact details of any witnesses, and note the location and time.
- Record the Owner’s Details: If possible, get the owner’s contact information, including their name, phone number, and address.
- Contact Local Authorities: This is especially the case if the bite is severe.
After you’ve taken these measures, speak to a legal professional to make a claim.
Dog Bite Law New York: Our Final Take
New York’s dog bite law can be tricky to navigate, especially if you’re not familiar with legal terms like “vicious propensities.” However, in general, the victim is entitled to compensation if the dog has a prior history of aggression or the owner was negligent and didn’t take reasonable measures to prevent the attack.
If you’d like to learn more about the dog bite law in New York, it’s best to consult a legal professional. They will be able to provide further support.
