Dangerous Dogs

Dangerous Dogs in Pennsylvania

While most dogs are friendly and playful, we've all witnessed dogs with aggressive temperaments. Typically, we see it in their body language and behaviors. However, sometimes those details go unnoticed. Pennsylvania state law has a provision that designates certain dogs as "Dangerous Dogs." However, it isn't a breed-based decision, but rather a label placed on dogs that exhibit violent or hostile behaviors.

If you've been injured from a dog's aggressive behavior, contact our experienced legal professionals today. For a free consultation, call us at 412-618-1472 or fill out our free online legal consultation in the top right corner of this page. It's quick and easy, and there's no obligation to use our services when you call.

What Makes a Dog Dangerous?

Pennsylvania law labels dogs as "dangerous" if they've attacked, caused injury, or killed a human being or domestic animal ¬– without provocation – while away from owner's property. Furthermore, a dog may be considered dangerous if it is involved in committing a crime, including dog fighting rings.

If the state decides that a dog is considered "dangerous," then the owner is responsible for the following:

• Registering the dog with the Dog Law Enforcement Office on an annual basis
• Paying the $500 registration fee per calendar year for the life of the dog. An additional amount may be set to cover administrative costs as well
• Confining the dog properly
• Posting warning signs stating the presence of a dangerous dog
• Keeping the dog muzzled and leashed when outside of a proper enclosure
• Spaying or neutering the dog
• Applying a microchip to the dog
• Paying any court ordered restitution
• Purchasing $50,000 of liability insurance for injuries inflicted by the dog
• Alerting the Dog Law Enforcement Office if the dog is sold or donated

Suffering injuries from a "dangerous dog" could entitle you to additional compensation. The owner of a "dangerous dog" is responsible for any pain and suffering, medical costs, and lost wages related to the dog attack.

Dangerous Dog Breeds

In the past, it was common to assume that certain dog breeds were more dangerous than others. However, we've seen that any dog can exhibit aggressive behaviors and can attack under certain circumstances. However, some dogs, because of their size and build, cause much more damage if they attack.

In the past, the following dog have been associated with dangerous breeds:

• Akitas
• Bullmastiffs
• Doberman Pinschers
• German Shepherds

• Pit Bulls
• Rottweilers
• Siberian Huskies

Any dog can be defined as a "dangerous dog." It's the responsibility of the dog's owner to make sure their pet is trained, socialized, and following your state's leash laws. Knowing an aggressive dog's body language can help prevent a potential dog bite.

Call Us if You've Been Injured by a Dog

Dog bites can cause serious injury and life-long scarring. If a violent or dangerous dog has attacked you, then you could be entitled to money for your injuries. Call us at 412-618-1472 or complete the form above for a free consultation. We'll answer your legal questions and determine if you have a case.

Don't hesitate to contact our legal professionals. With over 35 years of experience and success, our attorneys will get to work for you. We'll protect your legal rights and fight to recover the maximum amount of money for your injury case.

Remember, there's no fee unless we get money for you. You won't pay us anything until we win your case. That's our guarantee. Contact our law firm today.

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