Domestic dog Law UK – what if my dog bites somebody?

Despite the fact that dogs are by and large considered to be man's best friend – incidents do often happen where dogs bite humans, either their owners or worse still, someone other than their owner.  Although, information technology is non something I have personally encountered with any of my own dogs, I can imagine it must exist a very frightening experience if your dog bites someone.  Holidays4Dogs provides some information regarding the law on dog bites in the UK and some general suggestions on how to avoid this distressing state of affairs.

Statistics for dog bite occurrences in the UK are murky and not easily interpreted. This is because dog bites are besides referred to as 'strikes' which ways where the dog has acquired someone injury other than from a bite. Information technology is estimated that in 2015 in the UK, there were some vii thousand admissions into hospital for dog bites and strikes each twelvemonth and the figures were predicted to rise further.  Alarmingly, over the final ten years there accept been 21 fatalities which accept included thirteen children or babies.

Statistics exercise advise that most dog bites are from the family pet and the number one culprit in terms of breed is, surprisingly, the Labrador retriever according to a study compiled by pet insurers Fauna Friends in 2016. Withal, since this is the U.k.'s well-nigh popular breed of pet dog, then information technology follows that there is more likelihood of Labradors being responsible for a high percentage of dog bites.  Notwithstanding, any dog is capable of biting no what their breed, shape or size.

Since new amendments were introduced in 2014 to the Unsafe Dog's Deed 1991, information technology is at present an offence for a person'southward dog to be dangerously out of control on private. as well as public property.  It is therefore of import for owners to exist aware of implications regarding the constabulary, should their domestic dog unfortunately bite someone.

Of class, nobody wants to live with an aggressive dog, or risk their pet dog biting a member of the family, let alone a stranger and dog bites can often exist avoided if the correct management techniques and appropriate supervision are put in place.  An important point to note is that children are the most likely people to be bitten by a dog and the most likely culprit is the household pet.

Information technology is no surprise that children are more than commonly bitten since a dog volition normally simply resort to biting because of a breakdown in communication.  A kid understands less about how to read the trunk language and cues that domestic dog's make; this is why it is vitally important to always supervise when dogs and children are together.  You can read more on this subject area in our other Holidays4Dogs article Children and Dogs.

But what if your dog bites someone, either while out walking or at home?  Since new amendments were introduced in 2014 to the Dangerous Canis familiaris's Act 1991, it is at present an offence for a person'southward dog to be dangerously out of control on private besides as public property.  It is therefore of import for owners to be enlightened of implications regarding the law, should their canis familiaris unfortunately seize with teeth someone who may be visiting their home.

Crucially, it is also important to understand that your dog does not fifty-fifty accept to seize with teeth – if someone just feels threatened by the behaviour of your domestic dog, you could be prosecuted under the DDA.  Previous to amendments to the DDA, hundreds of postal and delivery workers were field of study to dog bites per year with no way of pursuing compensation or redress from owners.  That has now inverse; so if your domestic dog bites a tradesman or commitment person, y'all could face prosecution.

In public places it is wise not to allow your dog to run effectually off lead, running up to people and other dogs, barking or jumping upwards as you could be accused of having a 'dangerously out of control dog'.

The law is not clear cut when it comes to intruders, and then make sure you cannot exist accused of 'setting' your dog on to an intruder every bit, equally, yous could be prosecuted.

Owners should always make sure their dog is kept away from delivery persons or other strangers coming to the house; most dogs will bark if someone enters their territory and this could be enough to land an owner in hot water.  If your dog has a past history of beingness aggressive or you are concerned at all most your dog's behaviour – don't let this get worse – seek the aid of a qualified trainer or behaviourist to evaluate your dog and propose an appropriate way of training or management.

Information technology should be pointed out that while every possible intendance has been taken to ensure the accuracy of this article, it is for data purposes only and cannot be regarded as legal communication. If, equally an owner, y'all detect yourself afflicted by any of the higher up domestic dog laws information technology is advisable to seek advice immediately. There are firms of solicitors who provide specialist advice on dog law and these tin can be found either on-line or via your local citizens advice agency.

More info: https://www.facebook.com/doglawsolicitors/

Welcome to doglaw.co.uk