ClickCease

Vaziri Law Group Blog

310-777-7540

Dog Attack Statistics by Breed (2024): An Essential Guide

Posted by Siamak Vaziri | Oct 05, 2023 | 0 Comments

Dog attack statistics by breed (2024): an essential guide

Dog attacks can cause serious injuries, emotional trauma, and even fatalities. Understanding the statistics surrounding dog bites helps raise awareness and prevent future incidents. In 2024, dog attacks remain a significant concern for communities across the U.S.

Vaziri Law Group Personal Injury Attorneys help dog bite victims seek justice. Our experienced team fights for fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We also provide legal advice to hold negligent dog owners accountable.

General Dog Attack Statistics

Every year, approximately 4.5 million people in the U.S. suffer dog bites, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Of these, about 800,000 require medical attention, and many victims are children.

Dog bite injuries can range from minor scratches to severe wounds requiring reconstructive surgery. Most dog bites occur in homes or neighborhoods, often involving familiar dogs. Male dogs and unneutered pets are more likely to bite than female or spayed dogs.

Fatal dog attacks, though rare, account for an average of 30–50 deaths annually in the U.S. These tragic incidents often involve specific breeds and untrained or poorly supervised dogs. Proper training and responsible pet ownership play a vital role in preventing dog bite incidents.

Incidence of Dog Bites

Dog bites are common, with millions of cases reported annually. According to homeowners insurance claims data, dog bite claims account for a significant portion of personal injury cases in the U.S. In 2024, dog bite incidents resulted in thousands of emergency room visits, many of which involved children under 12.

Male dogs are more likely to bite than females, especially if they are not neutered. In addition, adult dogs with a history of aggression are more likely to cause serious injuries.

Preventing dog bites starts with responsible ownership. Ensuring dogs are well-trained, properly socialized, and supervised can greatly reduce the risk of biting incidents. Public education and awareness campaigns also play an important role in keeping communities safe.

Fatalities Resulting from Dog Attacks

Fatalities from dog attacks are rare but devastating. Certain breeds, such as pit bulls and Rottweilers, are more frequently linked to fatal dog bites. However, factors like poor training, neglect, or abuse by dog owners play a significant role in these tragic events. 

Fatal dog bites often result from dogs that are improperly restrained, unsocialized, or left unsupervised around vulnerable individuals. The majority of fatal dog attacks happen in familiar settings, such as the victim's home or neighborhood. 

Proper education on responsible pet ownership and stronger enforcement of leash laws can help prevent these tragedies. For families affected by fatal dog bites, seeking legal advice is essential to hold negligent parties accountable.

Dog Attack Statistics by Breed

Dog attacks statistics by breed

Dog attack statistics by breed help identify which breeds are more often involved in biting incidents. While certain breeds, like pit bulls and Rottweilers, are frequently highlighted, it's crucial to note that any dog can bite under certain circumstances.

Pit Bulls

Pit bulls are frequently involved in dog attack statistics and are often associated with severe injuries or fatalities. In many reports, pit bulls account for a significant percentage of dog bite fatalities, largely due to their size and strength.

Pit Bulls are often highlighted in dog attack statistics. For instance, a study by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) documented that pit bull-type dogs were involved in 28% of fatalities from 1979 to 1998.

Despite their reputation, pit bulls can be loving family pets when properly trained and socialized. However, neglect or poor handling by owners often leads to aggressive behavior. Pit bull mixes are also commonly cited in biting incidents, adding to the breed's statistical representation.

Some communities enforce breed-specific legislation (BSL) to regulate pit bulls. These laws often include restrictions or bans, but critics argue they unfairly target the breed rather than focusing on irresponsible ownership. Proper training and education are critical to reducing incidents involving pit bulls.

Rottweilers

Rottweilers are often linked to severe dog bite incidents due to their strength and protective instincts. They are known as loyal and intelligent dogs but require proper training and socialization to ensure safe behavior.

An AVMA study found that Rottweilers were responsible for 39 fatalities during the same period, making them the second most frequently involved breed in fatal dog attacks.

Responsible ownership is key to reducing risks with Rottweilers. Proper training, early socialization, and supervision around strangers or unfamiliar situations can help prevent aggressive behavior. Communities must focus on educating dog owners instead of blaming specific breeds for biting incidents.

German Shepherds

German Shepherds are strong, intelligent, and often used as working dogs for law enforcement and security. However, their protective nature can sometimes lead to aggressive behavior if not properly managed.

While German Shepherds are generally loyal and well-behaved, they are involved in some dog bite incidents each year. German Shepherds were noted to be involved in 17 fatal attacks between 1979 and 1998, according to the AVMA study.

Training and socialization are essential for German Shepherds. Owners must ensure the dog understands commands and is exposed to different environments. When properly cared for, German Shepherds make excellent companions and working dogs.

Mixed-Breed

Mixed-breed dogs are involved in many dog bite incidents simply because they make up a large percentage of the dog population. Since they don't belong to a specific breed, their behavior and temperament can vary widely.

Reports on mixed-breed dogs often link bites to lack of training, socialization, or supervision. The strength and size of the dog also play a role in the severity of injuries caused by bites. However, it's important to avoid generalizations, as mixed-breed dogs can be loving pets when raised responsibly.

Training and proper care are just as important for mixed-breed dogs as they are for purebred dogs. Educating dog owners about responsible pet ownership can help reduce the number of dog bite incidents involving mixed-breeds.

American Bulldog

American Bulldogs are large, muscular dogs known for their strength and protective nature. These traits make them both reliable companions and a potential risk when not properly trained.

While not as commonly involved in fatal dog attacks as some other breeds, American Bulldogs are still reported in dog bite statistics. Their size and power can lead to severe injuries in biting incidents, especially if they feel threatened or territorial.

Proper training and early socialization are essential for American Bulldogs. Owners should teach them to interact safely with people and other dogs. Responsible pet ownership ensures these dogs remain loyal and gentle companions.

Mastiff or Bull Mastiff

Mastiffs and Bull Mastiffs are large, powerful dogs. They are known for being protective and loyal to their families. However, their size and strength can make them dangerous if not properly trained or supervised.

These dogs are sometimes involved in biting incidents because they feel the need to guard their owners or territory. When a Mastiff or Bull Mastiff bites, the injuries can be serious due to their strong jaws and large size.

To keep these dogs safe and friendly, owners should focus on training and socialization. Teaching them to stay calm in different situations can help reduce the chances of aggressive behavior. With proper care, Mastiffs and Bull Mastiffs can be gentle and loving pets.

Husky

Huskies are energetic and playful dogs, but they can also be involved in dog bite incidents. Their strong prey drive and independent nature sometimes lead to aggressive behavior if they feel provoked or frustrated.

The AVMA study documented 15 fatalities caused by husky-type dogs between 1979 and 1998.

Training and exercise are very important for Huskies. They need clear boundaries and plenty of physical activity to stay happy and well-behaved. Responsible pet ownership ensures that Huskies are safe around people and other animals.

Dog Attack and Bite Statistics in California

California sees one of the highest numbers of dog bite incidents in the U.S. Based on information from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health:

  • In 1994, over 800,000 dog bites nationwide required medical attention, according to a CDC study.

  • As of 2011, hospital admissions due to dog bites in Los Angeles County increased from 243 in 2006 to 265 in 2009.

  • The Department receives over 9,000 animal bite reports each year, though this likely underrepresents the true number of incidents.

Many bites happen in homes or neighborhoods and often involve dogs known to the victim.

California law holds dog owners responsible for bites, even if the dog has never been aggressive before. This strict liability rule ensures that bite victims can seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

The state also reports many fatal dog attacks each year, often involving powerful breeds. Children and delivery workers are some of the most common victims. Proper training, socialization, and keeping dogs secured are essential steps to reducing dog bites in California.

Factors Influencing Dog Attacks

Factors infleuncing dog attacks

Dog attacks happen for many reasons, but certain factors make them more likely. Poor training, lack of socialization, and neglect are common issues. Dogs may also bite when they feel scared, stressed, or protective. 

Some of the factors that influence dog attacks are:

Ownership and Training

Dog ownership and training play a big role in preventing attacks. Dogs need proper care, attention, and training to behave well. Without this, they may become aggressive.

Dogs that are neglected, abused, or left unsocialized are more likely to bite. Owners must teach their dogs basic commands and expose them to different people and situations early. This helps dogs stay calm and friendly.

Responsible pet ownership means providing food, exercise, and a safe environment. It also means keeping dogs on leashes in public and never leaving them unsupervised with children. Good training and care can prevent many dog attacks.

Breed-Specific Legislation (BSL)

Breed-specific legislation consists of laws that focus on certain breeds, such as pit bulls or Rottweilers. These laws aim to reduce dog attacks by banning or restricting these breeds. However, many experts argue that BSL is unfair.

The problem isn't the breed itself but poor training and irresponsible ownership. Instead of targeting specific breeds, communities should teach owners how to care for and train their dogs.

BSL has caused debates, but experts agree that responsible pet ownership is the best way to stop dog attacks. Educating owners can make all dogs safer, no matter their breed.

FAQs

Which dog breeds are involved in the most attacks?

Certain dog breeds, like pit bull-type dogs and Rottweilers, are more commonly reported in attacks due to their strength and size. However, any breed, including smaller ones, can bite if they feel scared or untrained.

Are Labrador Retrievers involved in dog bite incidents?

Labrador Retrievers are usually friendly dogs, but they can still bite under stressful situations. Although not commonly linked to severe attacks, they may bite if they feel threatened or scared, like any other breed.

What are dog bite-related fatalities?

Dog bite-related fatalities refer to cases where a dog attack results in a person's death. While rare, these incidents often involve larger breeds or untrained dogs in high-risk situations.

Are pit bull-type dogs banned in some areas?

Yes, pit bull-type dogs are often restricted under breed-specific legislation (BSL) in certain places. These laws aim to reduce attacks but remain controversial.

How can different dog breeds be safer around people?

All dog breeds can be safer with proper training, early socialization, and responsible ownership. Teaching dogs good behavior and supervising them around people can reduce the risk of bites.

Contact Our Los Angeles Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation

Contact our Los Angeles lawyer for a free case consultation

If you or someone you love has been injured in a dog attack, you don't have to handle the situation alone. Vaziri Law Group Personal Injury Attorneys are here to help you. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that dog bites can take.

Our experienced team handles cases involving all dog breeds, from small dogs to powerful breeds like pit bull-type dogs. We work to ensure that victims receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional pain. If your case involves dog bite-related fatalities, we are here to support you every step of the way.

We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and provide guidance. Let us help you seek justice and hold negligent dog owners accountable. Call us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward recovery.

About the Author

Siamak Vaziri

Attorney Siamak Vaziri’s mission is to help make his clients whole by obtaining maximum physical, emotional, and financial recovery. Mr. Vaziri’s clients' needs come first, evidenced by his 98% success rate, more than $1 Billion in client settlements and verdicts, as well as 100+ 5-star reviews. Mr. Vaziri invests every resource to nurture his client and partner relationships and does so with integrity and a relentless work ethic.

Comments

There are no comments for this post. Be the first and Add your Comment below.

Leave a Comment

[LAW FIRM NAME] Is Here for You

At [LAW FIRM NAME], [I/WE] focus on [PRACTICE AREA(S)] and [I/WE] [AM/ARE] here to listen to you and help you navigate the legal system.

We Focus On Your Case So You Can Focus On Healing

If you were injured as the result of someone else's negligence, our legal team is standing by to help. We've helped victims recover over $1 Billion with a 98% success rate. We can help guide you through the entire claim process. Call us at 310-777-7540 for a free, confidential consultation.

Menu