Preventing and Responding to Dog Bites in Washington State

With sunshine comes more time outdoors—strolling through neighborhood parks, hitting local trails, or relaxing at a backyard BBQ. And where people go, dogs often follow. While our four-legged friends are part of the family, increased outdoor activity during the summer can also lead to more dog bite incidents.

At Capital Injury Law, we handle dog bite cases every year, many of them during the warmer months. Whether you’re a dog owner or someone who’s been bitten, it’s essential to understand your rights, responsibilities, and what steps to take if an incident occurs.

Let’s explore what you need to know to stay safe this summer—whether you’re holding the leash or passing by.

For Dog Owners: Preventing Bites Starts with You

As a dog owner in Washington, you’re legally responsible for your pet’s behavior. Even the friendliest dog can react unpredictably when startled, overheated, or overwhelmed by crowds. Here’s how you can reduce the risk of a bite and protect others (and your dog) this summer.

1. Know Your Dog’s Triggers

Not every dog enjoys a busy trail or children tugging on their ears. Pay attention to your dog’s body language. If they’re showing signs of stress—such as repeated yawning, stiff posture, growling, or avoiding eye contact—it may be time to leave the situation.

2. Always Leash in Public Spaces

Even if your dog is well-behaved off-leash, local laws often require dogs to be restrained in public parks and trails. Washington does not have a statewide leash law, but in Seattle, dogs must be leashed except in designated areas. Even when it isn’t required, a leash gives you better control if your dog becomes startled or reacts to another animal or person.

3. Practice Socialization and Training

Early and ongoing socialization helps dogs feel more comfortable around people, children, and other pets. Enroll in training classes if your dog is reactive or has difficulty following commands in distracting environments.

4. Provide Shade, Water, and Breaks

Heat can make dogs irritable. Make sure your dog has access to fresh water, shaded areas, and breaks from the sun. Overheating increases stress and discomfort, which can lead to biting.

5. Use Warning Gear if Needed

If your dog is nervous or has a history of biting, consider using a muzzle or vest that alerts others to keep their distance. These tools help prevent accidents and show you’re taking safety seriously.

Legal Tip for Dog Owners: Washington’s Strict Liability Law

Washington State has a strict liability law for dog bites. That means as a dog owner, you are liable for any injuries your dog causes, even if your dog has never bitten anyone before and even if you didn’t act negligently.

RCW 16.08.040 states: “The owner of any dog which shall bite any person while such person is in or on a public place… shall be liable for such damages as may be suffered by the person bitten.”

Translation: If your dog bites someone, you are legally responsible, regardless of intent, prior behavior, or whether a warning was given.

For Dog Bite Victims: Know Your Rights and Next Steps

Being bitten by a dog is not only painful—it can lead to emotional trauma, infection, and expensive medical bills. If you’ve been bitten, it’s crucial to act quickly and understand your legal rights.

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if the bite seems minor, see a doctor. Dog bites can cause serious infections or nerve damage. If the skin was broken, you may need a tetanus shot or antibiotics. Medical records will also be essential for any future insurance claims.

2. Document Everything

Take photos of your injuries, the location of the incident, and the dog, if possible. Gather the dog owner’s contact information and the names of any witnesses.

3. Report the Bite

In Washington, report all dog bites to your local animal control or health department. This helps document the incident and ensures the dog’s vaccination records are up to date.

4. Understand Washington Dog Bite Laws

As mentioned, Washington is a strict liability state. This means you don’t need to prove the dog owner was negligent—you only need to show that the bite occurred while you were lawfully in a public or private space. 

The dog owner is liable for injuries caused by their pet, with two exceptions: if you were trespassing or if you provoked the dog. In these cases, the owner may not be held liable. A dog bite attorney can help assess the specifics of your case.

Should You Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer?

If your injuries are serious, or you’re unsure how to proceed, it’s wise to speak with a dog bite lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help you gather evidence and witness statements. We’ll also handle all communication with insurance companies and help you file a personal injury claim for medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Most importantly, a lawyer ensures your rights are protected. At Capital Injury Law, we offer free consultations, so there’s no risk in reaching out to learn your options.

What Damages Can You Recover in a Dog Bite Case?

If you’ve been bitten, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (emergency care, follow-ups, therapy)
• Lost wages due to time off work
• Pain and emotional trauma
• Permanent scarring or disfigurement

Each case is unique. The more documentation you have—from medical records to witness statements—the stronger your claim will be.

Summer Safety Is a Shared Responsibility

Dog bites can be tragic, and they’re often preventable. As dog owners, it’s our duty to protect others. As community members, we must approach unfamiliar dogs with caution. And if an injury happens, know that you don’t have to navigate the legal system alone.

At Capital Injury Law, we’re here to help both dog bite victims and their families find clarity, support, and justice. If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog this summer, call us. A compassionate, experienced dog bite attorney is ready to hear your story and guide you forward.

Contact Capital Injury Law today for a free consultation with a trusted dog bite lawyer. Let us help you heal—with the compensation you deserve.