What Happens When a Dog Bites Another Dog?

When another dog bites another dog, it’s traumatic for you and your pet. Like most dog owners, you make every effort to protect your dog from harm. However, animals can behave in unpredictable ways. That’s why most emergency veterinarian visits are due to bite wounds from other dogs. Here are some ways to keep your dog safe and what steps to take if your dog is attacked.  

Who is responsible if another dog bites my dog?

Most dog owners regard their pets as cherished members of the family. That’s why it is so upsetting when your dog is hurt by another dog. When a dog bites a person, the owner is usually responsible based on Michigan’s strict liability dog bite law. 

However, this law only applies when the victim is a human being. The legal issues differ when one dog is injured by another dog. 

For one thing, despite how we feel about our four-legged friends, dogs are considered property under Michigan law. Therefore, the injured dog’s owner may be able to file a property damage claim to recover veterinary bills and other related costs. If the dog died as a result of the attack, its owner may be entitled to the value of the dog along with any death-related expenses. These costs may be covered by the dog owner’s homeowners or renters insurance policy. Or, in some cases, the owner of the injured/deceased dog may sue the owner of the dog that perpetrated the attack.

Proving the Dog Owner was Negligent

To receive compensation for expenses relating to a dog attack, the owner of the injured dog has to prove the attack happened because its owner was negligent. The law presumes that dog owners have a legal “duty of care” to keep their dogs from harming other animals. To establish negligence, you would have to show that the owner breached that duty and that the breach caused your dog to suffer harm. 

For example, Michigan law (MCL 287.262) requires that dogs must be kept on a leash whenever they are in public. 

Therefore, removing a dog’s leash while walking through the neighborhood might be an indicator of negligence if the dog attacks and injures another dog.  

What should I do if my dog is attacked by another dog?

Here are the steps you should take (or avoid) if your dog is attacked by another dog:

Do Not Try to Stop the Attack by Getting Between the Two Dogs

When your dog is under attack, your natural instinct will be to jump in and protect it. However, putting yourself in the middle of two (or more) dogs can be very dangerous. The attacking dog is likely to turn on you, which could result in serious injury to you as well as your dog. If possible, try to distract the other dog from a distance.

Take Your Dog to the Vet Immediately if Emergency Care is Needed

This should be your first priority if your dog is severely injured. Seek emergency treatment if the dog is bleeding heavily, limping, crying or whining or appears to have difficulty breathing. 

Gather as Much Information as You can Before Leaving the Scene of the Attack

• Names and contact information for any witnesses 
• Dog owner’s name, address and contact information
• Description of the attacking dog, including breed, size, color and other physical attributes
• Photos of the attacking dog and the owner’s car and/or license plate 
• Photos of your own dog, including all injuries
• Date, time and location of the attack
• File a complaint with the local animal control office as soon as possible
• You should do this even if the owner is apologetic and offers to pay your dog’s vet bill

How do I care for my dog after the attack?

If your dog did not require emergency treatment immediately after the attack, the following is helpful advice to care for your pet and those handling them.

Take It to the Vet for an Examination As Soon As Possible

After a dog has been involved in a fight, it can be hard to determine the extent of its injuries. The dog’s fur may conceal certain injuries, especially smaller puncture wounds. Any bite can become infected or lead to a more serious condition without proper treatment. In addition, the dog may have internal injuries, which could be life-threatening. 

Be Careful Handling Your Dog After an Attack

Soothe your dog cautiously. Even gentle dogs may bite when they are frightened or in pain. If you have small children at home, keep the dog away from them for a day or two.

Watch Your Dog for Lingering Signs of Trauma

Skittishness for a few days after an attack is normal. However, if your dog shows continued signs of fear or aggression, consult your veterinarian.

Preventing a Dog Attack

While some dogs attack without warning, there are steps you can take to keep your dog safe.

• When your dog is around other dogs, watch for signs of aggression such as growling, snarling or baring teeth
• If another dog behaves in a threatening way, stay calm and walk your dog away as quickly as possible
• Keep your dog away from other dogs if it’s showing signs of stress or discomfort
• Ask the owner before you or your dog interact with another dog
• Even if the owner gives permission, keep your eyes on both dogs and lead yours away if either dog seems uncomfortable

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog, contact us immediately. We know what it takes to win your dog bite case, and we are ready to fight for the benefits you deserve.

Michigan dog bite law is complicated, but finding the right dog bite attorney is simple.

You can click the button below to fill out a brief form or Call 1-800-CALL-SAM today for a free, remote no-obligation consultation from the safety of your home.