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Bite Statistics According to Dog Breed
Researchers from Statista [1.] looked at multiple studies to analyze the relationship between the risk of dog bite injuries associated with different dog breeds. They also analyzed data to determine America’s most dangerous dog breeds based on fatal attacks of humans from 2005 to 2017:
- Pit Bulls: 284 deaths
- Rottweiler: 45 deaths
- German Shepherd: 20 deaths
- Mixed breeds: 17 deaths
- American Bulldog: 15 deaths
- Mastiff: 14 deaths
- Siberian Husky: 13 deaths
- Labrador Retriever: 9 deaths
- Boxer: 7 deaths
- Doberman Pinscher: 6 deaths
Related Article: 17 Dog Breeds With Strongest Bite
The Problem With Pitbulls
- Despite making up only about 5% of the U.S. dog population, pitbulls and pitbull mix breeds account for 77% of all fatal dog bites.
- Pitbulls are 2.5 times more likely to bite in multiple anatomical locations compared to other dog breeds.
- Pitbulls account for 60% of all dog bite injuries and 63% of ocular injuries.
- Pitbull terriers are more than 30% likely to attack an unknown person compared to other breeds of dogs, and 48% more likely to attack without provocation than other breeds.
- Pitbull attacks have higher morbidity rates and a higher risk of death than attacks by other types of dogs.
- Between 2005 and 2017, pitbulls killed a person every 16.7 days, totaling up to 284 people.
- Also from 2005 to 2017, Pitbull attacks accounted for 76% of dog bite deaths.
Also Read: California Pit Bull Laws
Why Labrador Retrievers are the Most Popular Dog in America
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1917, the Labrador Retriever has held the #1 spot on the organization's Top Ten registry list since 1991, a record 32 years.
Fans of the breed say the Lab’s full toolbox of attractions offers up something for everyone, first and foremost being their versatility and temperament. Most Labradors are so-called “light-switch" dogs, which means that you can turn them on and turn them off with ease.
If you want to go for a hike, run, swim, play ball, or hunt, they are up and ready to go. However, if you want to stay home and relax all day, they are thrilled to hang right there, as well. This attribute makes the Lab an excellent service dog.
Also Read: How to Negotiate a Dog Bite Settlement?
What if My Child Gets Bitten by Someone Else's Dog?
Dogs can make excellent companions and offer a great addition to your family, but, as you can see from the above statistics, not all breeds are family-friendly. It is also important to keep in mind that no matter what the breed, the nature of any dog’s behavior depends on its training, surroundings, and instincts.
If someone else’s dog harms you or your child, you should seek medical treatment immediately. Even small dog bites can become infected. After treating the wound, you should then consult an experienced dog bite lawyer.
Medical treatment can be extremely expensive, especially if the injuries are severe. The dog dog bite lawyers at Schmidt & Clark, LLP, have extensive experience helping dog bite victims and may be able to help you recover compensation for your damages.
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- Does Renters Insurance Cover Dog Bites?
FAQs
What evidence is needed to support a claim in a lawsuit involving an aggressive dog breed?
Supporting evidence may include medical records documenting your injuries, photographs of the injuries and the scene of the attack, witness statements, police or animal control reports, and any records showing the dog’s history of aggression or previous attacks.
What should I do if I was bitten or attacked by a dog?
If you were bitten or attacked by a dog, seek medical attention immediately to treat and document your injuries. Report the incident to local animal control or law enforcement, gather any available evidence, and consult with a lawyer to discuss your legal options.
Can I sue the owner if the dog that attacked me was known to be aggressive?
Yes, if the dog that attacked you was known to be aggressive, you may have a strong case for negligence against the owner. This is particularly true if the owner failed to take reasonable precautions to prevent the attack, such as properly restraining the dog or warning others of its aggressive nature.
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