Who’s Liable for a Dog Bite in D.C.? Understanding Strict Liability Laws

Dog bites are traumatic and often lead to serious injuries, emotional distress, and high medical bills. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog in Washington, D.C., you may be wondering: Who’s responsible for dog bite liability in Washington, D.C.? Washington, D.C. applies a strict liability standard in most dog bite cases—meaning the dog’s owner is often responsible, even if the dog had never bitten anyone before.

In this article, we’ll explain who can be held liable under D.C. law, how strict liability works, and what you need to know to protect your rights.

Overview of Dog Bite Laws in Washington, D.C.

In D.C., dog owners are generally strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets. This applies even if the dog had never bitten anyone before.

The D.C. Code § 8–1808 outlines key responsibilities for pet owners, including leash requirements, registration, and control in public spaces. You can review the city’s full animal control statute here:
District of Columbia Code § 8–1808 – Dog Control Requirements

Strict Liability vs. the One-Bite Rule: What D.C. Doesn’t Follow

Unlike states that follow the “one-bite rule”—where an owner may not be liable unless the dog had previously shown aggression—Washington, D.C. holds owners accountable even if it’s the first incident.

This is because D.C. prioritizes public safety over prior knowledge of the animal’s behavior.

When Dog Owners Are Liable for Bites and Attacks in D.C.

A dog owner in D.C. may be held liable if:

• Their dog was not leashed or under control in a public area
• The victim was legally on the property where the bite occurred
• Local leash or containment ordinances were violated

To understand the scale of the issue, you can view the District’s animal bite data released by the D.C. Department of Health. This report includes dog bite trends, common breeds involved, and public health actions: D.C. Health Animal Bite Surveillance Data (PDF)

Exceptions to Dog Bite Liability in D.C.

There are limited exceptions where a dog owner might not be held liable:

• If the victim provoked the dog
• If the person was trespassing
• If the dog was acting in self-defense or protecting its owner

Even then, the burden of proof falls on the dog owner—not the victim.

Can You Sue If the Dog Had No Prior History?

Yes. D.C.’s strict liability law doesn’t require the dog to have bitten someone before. If the owner failed to leash or contain the dog and it bit someone, they can still be liable.

Other Potentially Liable Parties

In some cases, parties other than the dog owner may be partially responsible, including:

• Landlords, if they knowingly allowed a dangerous dog on the property
• Property owners or businesses where the bite occurred
• Pet sitters or dog walkers acting negligently

What Evidence Do You Need to Prove a Dog Bite Claim in D.C.?

Essential documentation includes:

• Photos of your injuries
• Medical treatment records
• Witness accounts
• A report from D.C. Animal Control
• Surveillance or security footage (if available)

An attorney can help you collect and present this evidence effectively.

What if the Dog Owner Denies It Happened?

If the dog’s owner refuses to accept responsibility:

• You can file a claim through their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance
• You can pursue a personal injury lawsuit
• You can report the incident to D.C. Animal Control, who may investigate and enforce penalties

Statute of Limitations for Dog Bite Lawsuits in Washington, D.C.

In D.C., you have three years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim. This is set by the D.C. Code § 12–301. Acting sooner gives your case the best chance of success.

Roeser Law Firm – Legal Help for Dog Bite Victims in Washington, D.C.

If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, it’s important to understand your rights. The Roeser Law Firm offers free case evaluations to help you determine whether you’re entitled to compensation. To schedule your no-cost consultation, call us at (202) 660-4070 or reach out to us online—we’re here to help.