Dog Bite Statistics Per Breed
Ryan Zavodnick | February 26, 2024 | Dog Bites
Everyone knows that certain dog breeds have a reputation for being more prone to aggression than others. Dog bite statistics show that certain breeds are more likely to bite or otherwise injure people. Some cities, neighborhoods, and apartment complexes even have rules in place that ban residents from owning certain breeds of dogs, like pit bulls or Rottweilers.
The fact of the matter, though, is that any dog can bite, especially if provoked. Taking a look at dog bite statistics by breed may leave you surprised, but it can serve as a good reminder that even dogs considered non-aggressive can do serious harm under the worst circumstances.
What Dog Breeds Are Most Likely To Bite?
Keeping track of dog bite statistics isn’t easy. Millions of people are bitten by dogs each year, with many of those injuries being minor enough to go untreated and unreported. While hospitals keep general statistics related to treating dog bite injuries, the breeds involved aren’t closely tracked.
However, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) shares data on the most reliable dog bite statistics available, gleaned from a 2019 study on face injuries caused by dog bites by breed.
Findings from the study indicate that the dog breeds most frequently associated with bite injuries, in order of frequency, are as follows:
- Unknown
- Pit Bull
- Mixed breed
- German shepherd
- Terrier
- Rottweiler
These findings may come as a surprise. Terriers are often regarded as cute lap dogs, not vicious breeds likely to injure others. At the same time, certain breeds that are widely regarded as aggressive, such as Dobermanns and Chow Chows, didn’t make the list at all.
The study does note, however, that some large breeds, like Akitas, bite less frequently but can do more damage than other breeds.
Least Aggressive Dog Breeds
The AAHA also shares its findings on the dog breeds least likely to be associated with a dog bite.
At the bottom of the list, the least aggressive breeds based on dog bite statistics are as follows:
- Dalmatian
- Pointer
- Great Dane
- Pekingese
- Spitz
Even with these findings, it’s important to understand that any type of dog can cause serious injury, especially if provoked. Dog owners should never assume that their dog wouldn’t bite or isn’t aggressive and should take care to follow leash regulations and establish boundaries for household members and visitors.
Dog Bites: Fatalities and Injuries
A recent study conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics showed that dog bites resulted in nearly 500 deaths over the span of ten years. Interestingly, the years 2019, 2020, and 2021 showed a significant increase in the number of annual fatal dog bites. By far, the highest rate of fatal dog bites occurred in the year 2021, with a total of 81 deaths.
When a dog bite isn’t fatal, it can still lead to significant injuries, such as:
- Scarring
- Lacerations
- Broken bones
- Eye injuries
- Nerve damage
- Infections
- Muscle and tendon injuries
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), 4.5 million people suffer dog bites each year, and one in five of those incidents result in the need for medical treatment.
Holding Irresponsible Dog Owners Accountable For Bite Injuries
When a dog bite injury is serious, it can have consequences like loss of eyesight, facial disfigurement, severe nerve damage, or even amputation. These types of injuries lead to significant medical bills. They can also have a long-term impact on things like quality of life and earning ability.
Dog owners, therefore, have a responsibility to maintain control of their animals, and should their dog bite someone, the owner is usually liable for the ensuing injuries. Often, homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies cover the cost of dog bite injuries. If you’ve been bitten by a dog, don’t assume that you’re stuck with the medical bills. A dog bite attorney can review your case and help you understand your options for recovering personal injury compensation.
Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer Of Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Philadelphia Today To Get Help With Your Case
To learn more and get the help you deserve, call Zavodnick & Lasky Personal Injury Lawyers at (215) 875-7030 or contact us online.
You can also visit our law firm at 123 S Broad St #1220, Philadelphia, PA 19109.
