Jesup Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

When dogs cause harm, dog bite injury lawyers are reliable allies. They specialize in the legal intricacies of animal attacks, ensuring victims receive proper management of liability and compensation for justice and support.

What Are Commonly Considered Aggressive Dog Breeds

Some dogs have a reputation for being among the most aggressive and dangerous dog breeds. However, any dog can attack and bite another person or another dog depending on the dog’s training, the owner’s behavior, and the circumstances that lead to the bite or attack, such as teasing or scaring the dog.

Every year, nearly 4.7 million injuries occur in the United States due to dog bites. According to insurance companies, the five dog breeds most often associated with dog bite injuries and fatal attacks are:

1. Presa Canario: A mix of a mastiff and a pit bull, these dogs weigh up to 125 pounds and are about 25 inches tall.
2. Doberman Pinscher: Bred to guard their owners and respond immediately when threatened. Avoid violent or aggressive play with this breed.
3. Husky: Complex personalities can be dangerous in the hands of inexperienced owners.
4. German Shepherd: Used in police work due to their brave and confident nature, which can also make them aggressive.
5. Rottweiler: Often dislike unfamiliar people and animals and have very strong jaws.

Other breeds frequently listed as aggressive include:

- Pit bull
- Rottweiler
- Doberman pinscher
- Husky-type
- Wolf hybrid
- Malamute
- German Shepherd

Well-known dog trainer and television host Cesar Milan notes, “The difference between an aggressive Chihuahua and an aggressive pit bull is that the bigger breeds can cause proportionately bigger damage.” Therefore, pit bull attacks might cause more significant damage and garner more media attention than attacks by smaller breeds like Chihuahuas.

Vicious Dog Declaration in Iowa

Some cities automatically declare pit bulls and any dog with predominant pit bull characteristics as vicious. This requires the owner to purchase homeowner’s insurance coverage with a minimum liability of $100,000.

Jesup declares dogs vicious if the dog:
- Attacks a human or domestic animal without provocation.
- Has a history, tendency, or disposition to attack or cause injury.
- Snaps or bites or gives reason to believe it will snap or bite.
- Has been trained for dog fighting.
- Has been trained to attack humans upon command (except police and military dogs).

Does the Dog’s Breed Matter if I’m Filing a Dog Bite Claim?

In Iowa, dog bite liability laws are strict, meaning the dog’s breed does not impact the owner’s liability. Regardless of the dog that bit you, talk to an attorney about filing a dog bite claim. 

When a Child Suffers PTSD After a Dog Bite Attack in Iowa

A child’s dog bite attack can lead to life-long financial, physical, and emotional costs. Injuries from a dog attack can include:
- Torn and bloody clothing
- Scratches, bruises, and deep cuts
- Puncture wounds and loss of tissue or limbs
- Broken or crushed bones
- Disfigurement

Emotional distress may require medications and psychological therapy to address persisting fears.

Circumstances That May Make a Dog More Likely to Attack or Bite

Aggression is the most common serious behavior issue in dogs, leading to bites. Some circumstances that may make a dog more likely to bite include:

- Fear: Dogs may display fear aggression when scared. Always face a dog that may be scared of you.
- Territorial Aggression: Dogs may bite to protect their territory or possessions, such as bones, toys, or food.
- Protection of Owner: Dogs may react aggressively to protect their owner, puppies, or another dog.
- Taunting, Teasing, or Attacking: Dogs may respond aggressively if they feel endangered.

When to Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer

For the complete list of things you should do if bitten by a dog you can request our FREE book, "Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites- Secrets to Not Get Bitten by Your Case" which is available to you with no risk or obligation by clicking here or by calling 641-792-3595. 

Why offer a Free Dog Bite Book?  Since 1997, I have been representing injured Iowans, including many dog bite victims from central Iowa and throughout the state.  I have heard too many horror stories about people making costly mistakes, causing them to lose thousands of dollars.  Before you talk to the insurance company you should know your rights and perhaps more importantly your responsibilities.   

If you need immediate assistance, contact us online or call us at (641) 792-3595. If you are not local to us, we will come to you.