NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. – When we think of dangerous dogs, images of large, powerful breeds often come to mind – Pitbulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds dominating headlines whenever a serious attack occurs. Their size and strength make them a natural focus for concerns about safety. However, what many pet owners overlook is the fact that smaller breeds, often perceived as harmless or even “cute,” can pose just as much of a legal risk. A 2021 study, conducted by the University of Helsinki found that small dogs have significantly higher odds of aggression compared to their medium or large counterparts.
Bisnar Chase, a leading personal injury law firm, has seen a marked increase in inquiries from victims of smaller dog bites, particularly those involving breeds like Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, and Jack Russell Terriers. The firm warns Illinois owners of smaller dog breeds that while these cases often involve less physical damage, the legal consequences for owners can be just as severe.
“People tend to dismiss smaller dogs as less dangerous,” says Brian Chase from Bisnar Chase. “But in the eyes of the law, a bite is a bite. Whether the dog weighs 10 pounds or 100 pounds, the owner is equally liable for any injuries caused.”
The Rise in Smaller Dog Bite Cases
While large dog breeds are often more closely scrutinized for their strength and perceived aggressiveness, smaller breeds are increasingly involved in bite incidents, catching many dog owners by surprise. According to Bisnar Chase, the rise in smaller dog bite cases has been gradual but steady. Some victims have reported being bitten by dogs they previously thought were friendly or harmless, resulting in injuries that, while minor, still prompted legal action.
“In a world where more people are struggling financially, especially post-pandemic, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in dog bite claims,” Mr Chase continues. “People are more likely to seek compensation, even for minor injuries, especially when medical costs are high and stress levels are elevated.”
Indeed, with increasing financial pressure, more people are turning to legal avenues to cover expenses related to seemingly minor injuries. The bites from smaller dogs, which are often dismissed or minimized, can still lead to significant legal consequences for owners.
Understanding Owner Liability
One common misconception is that owners of smaller dogs are less liable in the event of a bite. However, Illinois law does not distinguish between breeds based on size. Whether a Chihuahua nips someone’s ankle or a German Shepherd delivers a more severe bite, the legal responsibility remains the same.
“People often assume that because a dog is small, the injuries will be minor and not lead to litigation,” says Bisnar Chase. “Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Even a seemingly harmless nip can result in infection, emotional distress, and in some cases, legal action.”
The legal framework surrounding dog bites varies, but in most cases, owners are held strictly liable for any injury caused by their pet. This means that even if the dog has never bitten anyone before, or if the owner wasn’t present when the bite occurred, they can still be sued.
“We want to remind Illinois dog owners, especially those with smaller breeds, that the legal system treats all dog bites seriously,” Mr Chase adds. “It’s crucial to take precautions and be aware of the risks, even if your dog has never shown signs of aggression.”
Preventing Dog Bite Claims
Given the legal landscape, it’s in every dog owner’s best interest to take preventive measures, particularly if they own a smaller breed. These dogs, while often considered less aggressive, can become easily provoked, especially around strangers or in stressful environments.
“A lot of these bites are preventable,” says Mr Chase. “One of the best steps an owner can take is to always keep their dog properly restrained, whether that means using a leash, a muzzle, or ensuring that their dog isn’t roaming freely.”
Owners should also be mindful of the environments they bring their dogs into. Crowded public spaces, children’s parties, or other high-stress settings can provoke even the most docile of dogs. Small dogs can be particularly reactive when they feel threatened or overstimulated.
“We see cases where people underestimate how stressed or anxious their small dog can get, leading to an unexpected bite,” he explains. “Owners need to recognize these signals and take appropriate action before an incident occurs.”
The Growing Litigious Environment
As America becomes increasingly litigious, the potential for legal action following a dog bite is higher than ever. According to Bisnar Chase, many Illinoisans are unaware of just how costly even a minor dog bite claim can be.
“Many of our clients are shocked by the potential financial repercussions of a dog bite case,” the firm notes. “In addition to medical bills, there are often legal fees, compensation for pain and suffering, and in some cases, even punitive damages.”
“Even if the injury seems minor, people are often advised to pursue compensation, particularly if the bite leads to complications like infections or scarring,” says Mr Chase.
“Ultimately, it’s about being a responsible pet owner,” he concludes. “Don’t assume that just because your dog is small, you’re immune to legal consequences. Properly restrain your dog, be mindful of their environment, and take every step to prevent an incident before it happens.”
Credit: https://www.bestattorney.com/