Owning a dog can be one of life’s great joys, but it also comes with legal responsibilities. In Connecticut, dog owners are held strictly liable for any injuries their pets cause, which means you could be financially responsible even if your dog has never shown signs of aggression. If your dog bites someone, the consequences can be serious—not only for the person injured but also for your peace of mind. Our New Haven, CT dog bite lawyer has worked with many victims of pet attacks, and we know how important it is to take simple, proactive steps to reduce your risk as a dog owner.
Tips For Dog Owners From Our Attorneys
Know Your Responsibilities
Connecticut law holds dog owners liable when their dog injures someone, whether it happens in a public place or on private property—unless the person bitten was trespassing or provoking the animal.
This means you are expected to maintain control of your dog at all times. That starts with being aware of your surroundings and understanding your dog’s behavior. If your dog becomes anxious or defensive around strangers, it’s your responsibility to intervene before something goes wrong.
Use Proper Leashes And Containment
A secure leash and proper fencing can go a long way in preventing problems. Dogs should always be leashed in public areas, even if they are well-behaved.
Off-leash dogs in parks, on sidewalks, or at outdoor events are a risk—both to others and to you. At home, make sure your fencing is sturdy and tall enough to keep your dog contained. Gates should latch securely. If your dog has ever escaped the yard, consider reinforcing weak points or installing additional barriers.
Socialize And Train Your Dog
Many bites happen because dogs are startled or feel threatened. Early socialization can help your dog become more comfortable around people and other animals.
Obedience training is also key. Your dog should respond reliably to commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it.” If your dog shows signs of fear, aggression, or resource guarding, it’s worth speaking with a qualified trainer or behaviorist. Being proactive about behavior concerns is one of the best ways to protect others—and yourself—from legal risk.
Post Warning Signs If Needed
If your dog is protective of your home or nervous around strangers, don’t leave visitors guessing.
Post clear warning signs such as “Dog on Premises” or “Do Not Enter Without Owner.” This helps reduce the chance of surprise encounters and may protect you if someone enters your property uninvited. Delivery drivers, postal workers, and utility workers often encounter dogs on private property, and clear signage can help keep everyone safe from potential pain and suffering.
Consider Liability Insurance
Homeowners insurance typically covers dog bite claims, but not always. Some policies exclude certain breeds or have specific conditions for coverage.
It’s a good idea to review your policy and ask your insurance provider what’s covered. If coverage is limited, you might want to explore a separate umbrella policy. One serious bite claim can involve thousands of dollars in medical bills and legal fees, so it’s worth being prepared.
Take Action Before There’s A Problem
Most dog owners never expect their pet to cause harm—but it only takes one moment for something to go wrong. Children are especially vulnerable to injuries because of their size and how trusting they can be in dogs. Taking steps now to manage your dog’s environment, behavior, and interactions with others is one of the best ways to avoid legal issues later.
At Nugent & Bryant, we help people understand their legal rights and responsibilities when dog bites happen. If you have questions about how Connecticut law applies to you as a dog owner—or if you’re facing a potential claim—we’re here to help. Contact us for a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and learn more about how we can assist you.
