My Dog Bit Someone

From LoveToKnow Dogs

"My dog bit someone!" No owner ever wants to utter these words, but what do you do when the unthinkable happens?

Jaws

Help, My Dog Bit Someone!

Hello there,

I am seeking your advice on an incident that occurred with my dog.

Sheila is a two-year old Shar Pei mix. I think she might be mixed with Pitbull, but I'm not sure. Anyway, she is a loving dog, and she likes to play, chew bones and do all the things dogs usually like to do.

Today, one of my co-workers needed to stop by and pick something up from my condo. I walked in first, and a few seconds later my co-worker walked in the door alone. Sheila began to growl and bark, and the next thing I knew she lunged at my co-worker and bit her!

I don't think it is ever really okay for a dog to bite someone, but could this have been normal protective behavior? Do I need to put her down? Please let me know.

Thanks~~ Jodi

Expert Reply

Hi Jodi,

I'm sorry to hear about the position you are in. I hope your co-worker wasn't seriously hurt.

Although Sheila's reaction was at first natural, most dogs would have stuck with barking and growling to defend the territory against a stranger. There should have been no reason for her to move into a full attack given the circumstances you've provided.

I do not know what the laws are in your municipality regarding dog bites. Some authorities require you to report them, others do not.

I think for the safety of all concerned, you need to discuss the event with your vet and get a professional opinion about your dog's temperament, which at this point is in question. You should also consult a lawyer about what happened, because your co-worker may choose to report the attack to the authorities. It's better to understand your rights as well as your options.

Thank you for your question, and I hope you are able to resolve the situation without having to put your dog down.

~~ Kelly

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Comments

Hi Madedogownersinsouthark,

I'm sorry to hear about your situation. You'll need to contact a lawyer in your area directly for legal advice. I hope things works out in your favor.

-- Contributed by: Kelly

i have a 4 year old staffordshire terrier whom i've had since she was 5 weeks old, recently my neighbors claims my dog bit her when she was tryin to break up a dog fight my 1 dog and 3 ofhers i wasnt at home so i do not know that my dog did it or not i honestly dont believe so but thats not here nor there i offered to pay her medical bills and get rid of my dog and they said just get rid of the dog that all they wanted so we agreed then her& her father said they wanted to settle this out of court they just wanted us to get rid of ALL our dogs as hard as that was we did and they are now suing me anyways what are my rights in arkansas

-- Contributed by: madedogownerinsouthark

Hello MyDogBitSomeone,

I'm so sorry to hear what has happened. Are you sure you'll have to give up your dog? What does your dog walker say about the situation? Has it been reported to the authorities? These are all things to consider as you decide what to do next.

If you do have to place your dog in a new home, it's usually necessary for that home to be outside of the county where you currently live. You'll need to check your local dog ordinances to see what your community dictates. For the most accurate advice, it may be best to call your local shelter and discuss the situation. They should be able to help clarify your local laws, and if they can't take your dog themselves, they should be able to help you find a shelter that can.

Again, I'm sorry to hear about your situation, and I hope it works out for the best.

-- Contributed by: Kelly
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