Dog Bite Liability in Nevada

Dog Bite Statistics

• Approximately 65 million dogs live in the United States
• Roughly 5 million people suffer dog bites every year
• 800,000 bite victims require medical treatment annually
• Half of those bitten are children
• 88% of dog bite fatalities involve pit bulls, followed by Rottweilers
• Dog bite victims nationwide suffer $1–2 billion in damages annually

Nevada’s Negligence Standard

Nevada follows a negligence-based approach to dog bite liability (unlike strict liability states). A dog owner or property owner may be held liable if they failed to exercise reasonable care to prevent the attack. Factors courts consider include:

• Whether the dog had a history of aggression
• Whether the owner provided proper training and socialization
• Whether the dog was properly confined or leashed
• Whether the owner knew or should have known the dog posed a risk

Criminal Liability

It is a crime in Nevada to own or sell a vicious dog, as defined by state statute. Owners of dogs that seriously injure or kill someone may face criminal charges in addition to civil liability.

Damages from Dog Attacks

Compensation may cover medical and surgical expenses, psychological therapy (PTSD, anxiety, phobias), scarring and disfigurement, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Steps After a Dog Bite

1. Inform the dog’s owner of the bite
2. Get witness contact information
3. See a doctor immediately to prevent infection and scarring
4. Report the bite to Animal Services
5. Contact Attorney Eric Woods to learn your legal options