Is a Dog Owner Responsible for a Dog Bite in PA?

Pennsylvania law is clear, a dog owner must confine their dog in one of the following ways at all times:

1. Within the confines of the owner’s premises;
2. Firmly secured by means of a collar and chain or other device so that the dog cannot stray beyond the premises on which it is secured; or
3. Under the reasonable care of some person. Many people mistakenly believe that there is a one free bite rule in Pennsylvania.  The one free bite rule suggests that the owner gets one warning before they are held responsible. This is simply not true. The dog owner is responsible for the first bite when they do not comply with the Pennsylvania dog laws.

If someone is attacked or bitten by a dog whose owner did not confine the dog in one of the above ways, then the dog owner should be liable for the injuries and damages caused by the dog. Even if the dog was confined in one of the above ways, the owner may still be liable depending on the facts of the case. Personal injury attorneys Rankin and Gregory have handled many dog bites cases. They have worked closely with the local dog wardens and police to make sure the dog and its owner are dealt with to the full extent of the law.

Many people mistakenly believe that there is a one free bite rule in Pennsylvania.  The one free bite rule suggests that the owner gets one warning before they are held responsible. This is simply not true. The dog owner is responsible for the first bite when they do not comply with the Pennsylvania dog laws.