What Compensation Can Dog Bite Victims Recover?

The Physical and Emotional Toll of Dog Attacks

Dog bites can cause injuries far more serious than many people expect. Beyond immediate lacerations and puncture wounds, victims may suffer nerve damage, tendon injuries, bone fractures, serious infections (including sepsis), and permanent disfigurement. Psychological trauma is also common — particularly among children who may develop lasting fear, PTSD, and anxiety following a traumatic attack.

Types of Compensation Available to Dog Bite Victims

Medical Expenses

Dog bite medical treatment can be extensive and expensive. Covered expenses typically include:

• Emergency room treatment and wound care
• Hospitalization if required
• Rabies prophylaxis (if vaccination status is unknown)
• Antibiotic treatment for infections
• Plastic surgery and wound closure
• Reconstructive surgery for severe injuries
• Physical or occupational therapy
• Psychological counseling and therapy for trauma
• Future medical care for scarring revision or ongoing complications

Lost Wages

If your injuries prevented you from working during recovery, you may recover your lost earnings. If your injuries caused permanent limitations that affect your career or earning capacity, future lost wages may also be recoverable.

Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering damages compensate for the physical pain of the attack and recovery, as well as the emotional distress, fear, and psychological impact of the incident. These damages can be substantial, particularly in cases involving severe injuries, significant scarring, or attacks on children.

Scarring and Disfigurement

Visible scarring — particularly on the face, neck, or hands — is compensated as a separate category of non-economic damages in many states. The location, size, and permanency of scars all affect valuation. Young victims with facial scars typically receive higher awards due to the lifetime of disfigurement they will carry.

Emotional Distress and PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder following a traumatic animal attack is well-documented. Victims who develop PTSD, phobias, anxiety disorders, or depression as a result of an attack can recover for these psychological injuries — especially when diagnosed and documented by a mental health professional.

Factors That Affect the Value of a Dog Bite Claim

• Severity and permanence of physical injuries
• Extent of scarring and location (facial scars are valued higher)
• Age of the victim (children often receive higher awards)
• Psychological impact and any diagnosed psychiatric conditions
• Strength of liability (strict liability state vs. one-bite state)
• Availability of homeowner's insurance coverage
• Prior complaints about the dog or evidence the owner knew it was dangerous

Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover Dog Bites?

Most standard homeowner's and renter's insurance policies include personal liability coverage that applies to dog bite claims. Average homeowner's insurance policies provide $100,000 to $300,000 in personal liability coverage. This is typically the primary source of compensation in dog bite cases.

Some insurers exclude certain breeds. In those cases, the dog owner's personal assets may need to be targeted directly.

If you were injured in a dog attack, check your eligibility for assistance here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a lawyer to file a dog bite claim?

You are not required to have one, but dog bite cases — especially those involving significant scarring or injuries to children — can involve substantial compensation. An attorney can help ensure you're fully compensated for both economic and non-economic damages.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim?

Statutes of limitations for dog bite claims vary by state — typically 2–3 years. For claims involving minors, the limitations period is typically tolled until they reach adulthood. Act promptly to preserve your rights.