Dog bites and dog attacks can result in serious and lasting injuries. While some incidents involve relatively minor wounds, others can lead to permanent scarring, infections, fractures, nerve damage, psychological trauma, and long-term emotional effects. Despite this, many people misunderstand how dog bite claims work in Ontario and may avoid seeking legal advice because of common misconceptions about liability and compensation.
One of the most common myths is that a dog owner is only responsible if the dog had previously bitten someone or shown aggressive behaviour. In Ontario, that is not necessarily the case. Under the Dog Owners’ Liability Act, dog owners may be held liable for damages resulting from a dog bite or attack regardless of whether the dog had attacked someone before. A prior history of aggression is not required for liability to arise.
Another misconception is that only severe bites justify a legal claim. In reality, even injuries that initially appear minor can become more serious over time. Puncture wounds may lead to infection, nerve damage, or scarring. Some individuals experience chronic pain or reduced mobility after an attack. Psychological injuries are also common, particularly among children. Anxiety, fear around animals, sleep disturbances, and emotional trauma can continue long after physical wounds heal.
People also often assume that there is no claim unless the skin was actually broken. However, dog-related injuries can occur in many different ways. A person may be knocked to the ground while jogging, cycling, delivering packages, or walking through a neighbourhood. Falls caused by uncontrolled dogs can result in fractures, head injuries, or other serious harm even where no bite occurs.
Another common myth is that pursuing a claim against a friend, neighbour, or family member will personally ruin them financially. In many situations, insurance coverage such as homeowner or tenant insurance may respond to the claim. Every case is different, but compensation is often paid through available insurance coverage rather than directly by the individual dog owner.
Some people believe that if they were partially at fault, they cannot pursue a claim at all. Ontario law does allow courts to assess contributory negligence in certain circumstances. For example, issues may arise regarding whether an individual ignored warnings, provoked the animal, or entered a restricted area. However, partial responsibility does not automatically prevent an injured person from advancing a claim. Each case depends on its own facts and evidence.
Parents are often surprised to learn that children injured in dog attacks may have significant legal claims even where injuries appear to heal physically. Scarring, psychological trauma, and long-term emotional effects can become important considerations in these cases. Young children are particularly vulnerable to facial injuries because of their height and proximity to dogs during interactions.
There is also a misconception that reporting the incident is unnecessary if the injuries seem manageable initially. Reporting can be extremely important. In many municipalities, dog attacks should be reported to the appropriate local authority or animal services department. Reports may assist in documenting the incident and identifying prior concerns involving the same animal.
Evidence preservation is another critical issue. Individuals should attempt to obtain photographs of injuries, torn clothing, the location of the incident, and, where possible, the dog involved. Witness information and medical documentation may also become important later. Even where individuals are uncertain about pursuing a claim, preserving evidence early can make a significant difference.
Prompt medical attention is essential after a dog bite or attack. Apart from treatment needs, medical records create documentation of the injuries and symptoms close in time to the incident. Delays in treatment may complicate both recovery and the legal process.
Timing also matters from a legal perspective. Limitation periods may apply, and waiting too long can affect evidence preservation and investigation efforts. Surveillance footage may be deleted, witnesses may become difficult to locate, and records may no longer be available.
Every dog bite case is unique. Liability, damages, insurance coverage, and available evidence can vary significantly depending on the circumstances of the incident. A proper legal assessment often requires investigation into how the attack occurred, who owned or controlled the dog, whether there were prior complaints, and the extent of the injuries sustained.
At JRJ LAW, we assist individuals injured in dog attacks and other preventable incidents across Ontario. We help clients understand their rights, investigate potential claims, preserve evidence, and navigate the legal process with care and sensitivity. If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog, contact JRJ LAW at 1 (844) DIAL JRJ for a free consultation!