Dog bites happen more often than you might think, and they can cause serious physical and emotional harm. If you were bitten by a dog in Texas, or if you’re a dog owner trying to understand your responsibilities, you may be wondering what the law says.
At The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C., we’ve handled dog bite claims for clients in Waco, Temple, Killeen, Round Rock, and Austin. This post explains Texas dog bite laws, who may be held responsible, and how the legal process works.
Does Texas Have a Dog Bite Statute?
Texas does not have a specific statewide law that applies only to dog bites. Instead, it follows the “one bite rule ” and general negligence laws.
Under the one bite rule, a dog’s owner can be liable if:
- The owner knew or should have known the dog had dangerous tendencies (for example, if the dog bit someone before); and
- The owner failed to take proper precautions to prevent the bite.
But that doesn’t mean you have to prove the dog bit someone before to win your case. You may also be able to recover damages if the owner acted carelessly and failed to prevent the attack, like letting a dog roam without a leash or ignoring city leash laws.
If you’re searching for information on dog bite laws in Texas, it’s important to know that these cases rely heavily on facts, evidence, and the specific actions of the owner before the bite happened.
When Is a Dog Owner Legally Responsible?
In a Texas dog bite case, a dog owner may be found liable if:
- The dog had a history of aggression or previous bites,
- The owner ignored leash laws or let the dog roam free,
- The dog was not properly contained or secured, or
- The owner failed to warn visitors about a dangerous dog on their property.
To hold the owner responsible, you must prove negligence and that the owner didn’t take reasonable steps to keep others safe.
What If the Dog Had Never Bitten Anyone Before?
Even if the dog had never bitten anyone, the owner could still be held responsible under Texas negligence law. Examples of negligence by the owner include:
- Leaving the dog unsupervised,
- Allowing the dog to run loose in public, and
- Ignoring signs of aggression.
Every case is different. That’s why working with a personal injury lawyer who can investigate the details and help build a strong claim is important.
What Damages Can You Recover After a Dog Bite?
If a dog bites you and the owner is found liable, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical bills (including ER visits, stitches, surgery, or plastic surgery);
- Lost wages (if you missed work to recover);
- Pain and suffering;
- Scarring or disfigurement;
- Emotional distress, especially in children; and
- Future treatment, such as therapy or additional surgeries.
Dog bites often cause long-term physical and emotional trauma, especially if the victim is a child. We help clients calculate the full cost of their injuries so they don’t settle for less than they deserve.
Texas Dog Bite Reporting Law
Many people aren’t aware of the Texas dog bite reporting law, but it’s an important part of any case. Under the Texas Health and Safety Code, a person bitten by a dog (or the dog’s owner) must report the incident to local animal control immediately.
The purpose of this law is to:
- Ensure the dog is evaluated for rabies,
- Document the bite in case of future incidents, and
- Help victims get prompt medical care and support.
Failing to report the bite doesn’t stop you from filing a claim, but can make the case more difficult. If you’ve been bitten, always report the attack to animal control as soon as possible.
What Should You Do After a Dog Bite?
If a dog bit you or your child, take the following steps to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Get medical attention immediately, even if the bite seems minor;
- Report the bite to local animal control within 24 hours;
- Get the dog owner’s contact information, if possible;
- Take photos of your injuries and where the attack happened;
- Avoid posting about it online or discussing it with the dog owner’s insurance company; and
- Speak with a personal injury lawyer before accepting any payment or signing forms.
The sooner you act, the better your chances of building a strong case under Texas dog bite laws.
What If the Dog Owner Is a Friend or Family Member?
Many dog bite victims hesitate to file a claim because the dog’s owner is someone they know. But remember that in most cases, you’re not suing your friend or relative directly. You’re filing a claim with their homeowners’ or renters’ insurance.
These policies are designed to cover dog bite injuries. Your loved one won’t have to pay out of pocket unless they intentionally caused harm or failed to cooperate with their insurance company.
We can handle the claim respectfully and discreetly while ensuring you’re taken care of.
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Dog Bite Case?
While not required, working with a personal injury lawyer can make a big difference, especially if:
- The dog has no known history of aggression,
- The owner denies responsibility,
- You’re dealing with an insurance company, or
- The injuries are serious or require long-term care.
At The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C., we take time to understand your situation, gather evidence, and fight for full compensation. And we don’t pass your case off to a junior assistant or case manager. The attorney you meet is the one who stays with you from start to finish.
Bitten by a Dog in Texas? Let’s Talk.
If you’ve been injured in a dog attack, don’t wait to get help. Understanding Texas dog bite laws is the first step to protecting your health, finances, and future.
Contact The Zimmerman Law Firm, P.C. today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your rights, and help you take the next steps without pressure or confusion.
Serving clients across central Texas, we’re here when you need real answers and real support.
Michael Zimmerman
Michael was born in Houston, Texas. His education at Baylor and Texas State Universities earned him a Bachelor of Science degree in 1987. His major was in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry. He finished his legal education at Texas Southern University in 1990, earning a Juris Doctorate from Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in 1990.
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