Dog Bite Claims in Texas

Understanding Dog Bite Claims in Texas

Texas uses a modified "one-bite" rule combined with general negligence principles for dog bite claims. Unlike strict liability states where the dog owner is automatically responsible for any bite, Texas requires you to show that the owner knew or should have known their dog had dangerous tendencies. Prior bites, aggressive behavior, breed-specific tendencies, failure to restrain, and violations of local leash ordinances can all establish the owner's knowledge.

Texas ranks among the top three states for dog bite insurance claims, with the average claim exceeding $55,000 nationally according to the Insurance Information Institute. Children are the most frequent victims of severe dog bites, and attacks to the face — which are common in children due to their height — produce the highest settlements because of permanent scarring, disfigurement, and psychological trauma.

Dog bite claims in Texas are typically covered by the dog owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, which usually includes $100,000 to $300,000 in liability coverage. Some policies exclude certain breeds or require additional riders. If the owner has no insurance, recovery options are limited to the owner's personal assets. Landlords who allow tenants to keep known dangerous dogs may also share liability under premises liability theories.

Damages in dog bite cases include emergency medical treatment, surgery (including plastic and reconstructive surgery), wound care, antibiotics and infection treatment, rabies protocols, physical therapy, psychological counseling for trauma and PTSD, scarring and disfigurement, pain and suffering, and in severe cases, permanent disability. Children's cases often include significant future damages for ongoing reconstructive procedures as the child grows.

Average Dog Bite Settlement Ranges in Texas

Based on analysis of Texas verdict and settlement data.

Ranges based on publicly available Texas verdict and settlement data. Actual outcomes depend on specific case facts.

Texas Law: Dog Bite Claims

Texas applies a negligence standard for dog bites, requiring proof that the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous and failed to exercise reasonable care (the modified "one-bite" rule). Prior aggressive behavior, violation of leash ordinances, and breed-specific behavior can establish knowledge. The two-year statute of limitations (§ 16.003) applies. Under Tex. Health & Safety Code Chapter 822, local authorities can declare a dog "dangerous" after a bite, which strengthens future claims. Comparative fault (Chapter 33) applies — if you were teasing or provoking the dog, your recovery may be reduced. Homeowner's/renter's insurance typically covers dog bite liability.

Common Injuries in Dog Bite Cases

Dog Bite Claims Across Texas

We serve dog bite victims in 264 Texas cities.

Frequently Asked Questions: Dog Bite in Texas