Dog Bite Cases: Study Shows Big Dogs are the Likely Culprit

Recently, the Humane Society of the U.S., the American Veterinary Medical Association and the CDC released a study regarding dog bite statistics over the last 20 years. The study noted that some of the increased number of dog bite incidences can be associated with the popularity of a breed, not the breed itself. One should look at specific areas, like Salt Lake City, to determine whether the frequency of a specific breed’s biting incidences is related to the popularity of the breed in that area. 

What Breeds Topped the List?

The breeds that topped that charts were mixed breeds, german shepherds, pit bull-type dogs, Labradors, Rottweilers, Terriers, Chow Chows and Huskies. The National Animal Control Association stated “dangerous and/or vicious animals should be labeled as such as a result of their actions or behavior and not because of their breed.” 

The increased number of cases that a lawyer deals with that involve a particular breed may point to the popularity of that breed in that area. For example, an increased number of labradoodles in Salt Lake City may lead to an increase number of biting incidences.

Big Dogs

A majority of dog bite reports are about big dogs because they can cause more severe injury than a smaller animal. Although there are aggressive dogs of every size, it is much more dangerous when a large dog is aggressive. A lawyer usually deals with cases where there is substantial injury and those injuries are usually caused by a large dog.

How to Prevent Dog Bites

Dog bite cases often occur because the dog is afraid or sees a person as prey. With proper training, socialization and spaying or neutering the dog, the likelihood of an injury decreases. A lawyer will likely be involved in a severe injury case, so large breed owners need to be responsible and take extra measures to train their dogs. Salt Lake City is a dog-friendly city, with many dog parks and off-leash areas, which means that there could be an increased chance of injuries. Train your dog and be careful.

Lura Briggs is a legal writer for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Robert J Debry. Follow on Twitter.