Dog attacks cause deep wounds, infections, nerve damage, and scars, often to the face and hands. Children are hurt most often.
New York law on these cases changed in 2025, in favor of injured people.
Two Ways to Hold an Owner Responsible
- Strict liability. An owner who knew, or should have known, that the dog had vicious tendencies is responsible for the harm it causes. Prior bites, lunging, snapping, and being kept as a guard dog can all show this.
- Negligence. In 2025 the New York Court of Appeals held that an injured person may also bring an ordinary negligence claim, for example against an owner who carelessly let the dog get loose. Before that decision, negligence claims for harm caused by pets were barred.
Who Pays
Most claims are paid by the owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance. Every case is different, and the rules that apply depend on the facts, the parties, and the insurance involved. Once we discuss your claim and complete the necessary research, our office will confirm which deadlines and coverage apply to you.
Bitten by a tenant's dog?
A landlord may be responsible if they knew the dog was dangerous and had the power to do something about it, but didn't.
Do This Now
- Get medical care. Dog bites get infected easily.
- Report the bite to the police or the Health Department.
- Get the owner's name, address, and insurance information.
- Photograph the injuries now and as they heal.
- Get the names of witnesses and of anyone who knows about earlier incidents with the dog.
What You Can Recover
- Medical bills, including plastic surgery and scar revision
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Compensation for permanent scarring
- The cost of counseling, especially for children
Deadlines
Most New York injury lawsuits must be filed within three years of the accident.
Children generally have more time, but evidence about the dog's history is much easier to get early.
Common Questions
The owner says the dog never bit anyone before. Is that the end of it?
No. A prior bite is not required. Other behavior can show vicious tendencies, and since 2025 a negligence claim may be available as well.
The dog did not bite me. It knocked me down. Do I have a case?
You may. The law covers harm the dog causes, not only bites.
The dog belongs to a friend or relative. I do not want to hurt them.
These claims are almost always paid by insurance, not by the owner personally.
Talk to a Lawyer Today
The consultation is free. There is no fee unless we win, and we advance the costs of the case. You speak with your attorney directly, not a call center.