Am I Liable If My Dog Bit Someone in Public in Ohio?
Am I Liable If My Dog Bit Someone in Public in Ohio?
Dog bites can lead to serious injuries, and in Ohio, pet owners must understand their legal responsibilities if their dog injures someone. If your dog bites someone in a public place, you may be held legally liable under Ohio’s strict liability laws. At Rubin and Zyndorf, we provide legal assistance to the Toledo public and help dog owners navigate potential liability issues.
Ohio’s Strict Liability Dog Bite Law
Ohio follows a strict liability rule when it comes to dog bites. According to Ohio Revised Code § 955.28(B), a dog owner, keeper, or harborer is liable for injuries caused by their dog regardless of prior behavior—even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. This means that a dog owner does not need to be aware of prior aggression for liability to apply.
Exceptions to Liability
While Ohio’s law generally holds dog owners responsible for bites, there are certain exceptions. A dog owner may not be liable if:
The victim was trespassing at the time of the bite.
The victim was committing a crime on the dog owner’s property.
The victim provoked the dog, such as by hitting or teasing it.
If any of these circumstances apply, the owner may be able to defend against a liability claim.
Potential Legal Consequences
If a dog bite victim successfully proves liability, the dog owner may be responsible for compensating them for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Additionally, if the dog is deemed dangerous due to prior incidents, the owner may face restrictions, such as increased insurance requirements, mandatory leashing and muzzling, or even removal of the dog from the home.
What Should You Do If Your Dog Bites Someone?
If your dog bites someone in public, taking the right steps can help protect your rights:
- Stay calm and check on the injured person – Offer medical assistance if necessary.
- Exchange information – Provide your contact details and proof of your dog’s vaccination records.
- Report the incident – In Ohio, dog bites must be reported to local health authorities.
- Document everything – Take photos, get witness statements, and note the circumstances of the bite.
- Consult an attorney – An experienced attorney can help assess your legal options and defend against any claims.
At Rubin and Zyndorf, we help Toledo dog owners understand their legal responsibilities and protect their rights in dog bite cases. If your dog has bitten someone in public, contact us today to discuss your situation and explore your legal options.









