Bitten or Attacked by a Dog?
Houston Dog Bite Attorney
If you or your child was bitten or attacked by a dog in the Greater Houston area, The Miller Law Firm — home of The Texas Bulldog — is ready to step in, protect your rights, and pursue the full compensation you deserve. Dog bite cases move fast: evidence fades, witnesses scatter, and insurers start positioning early. Our team gets to work right away so you can focus on healing. Free consultation, no fee unless we win.
Quick Answer: Can I Sue After a Dog Bite in Texas?
In Texas, you can pursue a dog bite claim if the owner knew the dog was dangerous or was negligent, for example by letting it run loose or ignoring a leash law. A first bite does not automatically bar a claim. You generally have two years to file, and The Miller Law Firm offers a free case review.
Watch
Houston Dog Bite Lawyer: Fighting for Attack Victims
Adam Miller — The Texas Bulldog — on dog bite cases.
By the Numbers
Dog Bite Claims by the Numbers
A serious bite can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. Texas law lets injured victims seek compensation when an owner, handler, landlord, or property occupier fails to act reasonably.
$1.57Bpaid on dog-related injury claims in 2024Triple-I / State Farm
22,658dog bite and related injury claims in 2024Triple-I / State Farm
$69,272average cost per claim in 2024Triple-I / State Farm
Top 3Texas ranks among the three states with the most claimsTriple-I / State Farm
Figures are for 2024 and come from Triple-I and State Farm. They count insurance claims, not every bite.
If an attack could have been prevented, the people responsible should be held accountable. A dedicated Houston dog bite attorney helps you prove liability, protect your claim’s value, and push back when insurers blame you.
Understanding Texas Dog Bite Law
Texas does not have a statewide law that makes every owner automatically responsible for a bite. Instead, liability is proven through one or more of these routes:
Known Dangerous Behavior
If the owner knew or had reason to know the dog was dangerous, such as a prior bite or documented aggression, the owner can be held responsible. This is often called the “one-bite rule.”
Negligence
The owner failed to use reasonable care, such as letting an aggressive dog roam, ignoring a broken fence, or not controlling a dog around guests or children.
Leash and Restraint Rules
Violating a leash, restraint, or dangerous-dog rule can be strong evidence the owner was careless.
Premises Liability
Property owners and landlords who knew of a dangerous animal may be responsible when guests or tenants are hurt.
The dog had bitten before
Prior bites, complaints, or documented aggression can show the owner knew the risk. Texas also has a dangerous-dog law that requires owners of dogs formally classified as dangerous to register them, restrain them, and carry at least $100,000 in liability insurance.
It was the first bite
You can still have a claim. A first bite does not erase the owner’s duty to use reasonable care. We look at how the dog was kept, supervised, and restrained.
We look at every route to maximize your recovery. Texas also follows proportionate responsibility, so your recovery can be reduced if you share blame for what happened.
Who Pays for a Dog Bite?
Most dog bite claims are paid by insurance, not out of the owner’s pocket. We identify every available policy and every responsible party.
Homeowner’s Insurance
The most common source of payment for a bite at or near the owner’s home.
Renter’s Insurance
Many renters carry liability coverage that can apply to a dog bite.
Umbrella Policies
Extra liability coverage that may apply when injuries are serious.
Commercial Policies
Bites at businesses, groomers, kennels, apartment complexes, or by dog walkers.
Landlords and Property Managers
When they knew about a dangerous dog and failed to act reasonably.
The Owner or Handler
Personally responsible when coverage is missing or does not apply.
Some policies exclude certain breeds or dogs with a bite history, and coverage varies. That is why we review the policy and the facts closely before anyone decides what a claim is worth. If the owner is a friend or family member, the claim is still typically paid by insurance, and we handle these cases discreetly.
The Harm Done
Common Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bites can look minor at first and turn serious fast. Deep wounds, infection, and scarring are common, and the emotional damage can last longer than the scars.
Puncture Wounds and Lacerations
Deep tears that may need stitches or surgery.
Infection
Bite wounds can become infected. Doctors may also assess rabies and tetanus risk.
Facial Injuries and Scarring
Bites to the face and head are common in young children and can leave permanent scars.
Nerve and Tendon Damage
Can cause numbness, weakness, or loss of movement in hands and limbs.
Broken Bones and Crush Injuries
Large dogs can break bones and crush tissue.
Emotional Trauma
PTSD, anxiety, and a lasting fear of dogs, especially in children.
Future Treatment
Scar revision, reconstructive surgery, and therapy.
Missed Work
Time away from work and, in serious cases, lost earning capacity.
When a Child Is Bitten
Children are among the most common dog bite victims, and their injuries are often to the face and head. CDC data show children ages 5 to 9 have the highest rate of dog bite injuries.
- Get medical care right away. Even a small wound should be checked, and scarring may need a plastic surgeon.
- A child’s filing deadline is generally paused until age 18, but evidence still fades. Do not wait to talk to a lawyer.
- Parents and the child may have separate claims. Medical bills and the child’s own injuries are handled differently, and we explain how.
- Document the healing. Photograph the wound over time, because scars change as a child grows.
If a bite caused a life-changing injury, read about catastrophic injury claims in Texas and burn injury claims.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
1
Right away
Get medical care now
Dog bites carry infection risks and may need stitches, antibiotics, a tetanus shot, or rabies treatment.
2
At the scene
Report the bite to animal control
In Houston, call 311 to reach BARC. Outside the city, Harris County Veterinary Public Health handles bite reports. Ask for an incident number and whether the dog will be quarantined to watch for rabies.
3
Before it fades
Photograph everything
Wounds before and after treatment, torn clothing, the scene, and the dog if it is safe. Keep a healing diary.
4
At the scene
Collect information
The owner’s name, address, phone, and insurance, plus any witness contacts.
5
Before anyone calls
Avoid insurer statements
Talk to us before you give a recorded statement or sign a medical release.
Watch for illegal solicitation. If a caller, case runner, or self-described “investigator” contacts you about your dog bite before you have reached out to anyone, that may be illegal under Texas law. See our guide on what to do if a lawyer contacts you first.
Save your medical bills, prescriptions, mileage to appointments, and records of time off work. Call The Texas Bulldog at (713) 572-3333 for a free case evaluation.
Evidence in a Dog Bite Case
Dog bite cases move quickly, so we start gathering proof right away:
1
Animal Control Reports
Incident and bite reports, and any quarantine records.
2
Vaccination and Rabies Records
Whether the dog was vaccinated and licensed.
3
Prior Bite and Complaint History
Earlier bites, neighbor complaints, and past reports.
4
Photos and Video
Your injuries, the scene, the fence or gate, and nearby cameras.
5
Witness Statements
People who saw the attack or knew the dog’s behavior.
6
Medical and Scar Documentation
Treating providers and, when needed, plastic or reconstructive specialists to capture scarring, nerve damage, infection risk, and PTSD symptoms.
What If the Owner Says You Provoked the Dog?
Insurers often argue provocation. We investigate witness accounts, video, and medical findings. Even if you are found partly at fault, you may still recover.
How Texas Comparative Fault Works
The percentage of blame assigned to you decides the outcome.
0% at fault50%100% at fault
You can still recoverYour compensation is reduced by your share of fault. If you are 20% at fault, your award is cut by 20%.
You collect nothingIf a jury finds you more than 50% responsible, Texas law bars recovery. That is why proving what really happened matters.
Read our Texas comparative fault guide for more on how shared blame works.
Damages You Can Recover
Depending on your injuries, you may recover for:
Medical Expenses
ER care, surgery, follow-up visits, and counseling.
Future Care
Scar revision, therapy, and reconstructive procedures.
Lost Income
Missed work and loss of earning capacity.
Pain and Mental Anguish
Physical pain and emotional distress.
Disfigurement
Permanent scarring and changes to appearance.
Punitive Damages
In egregious cases only. Texas law caps these and requires clear proof.
You may also recover for damaged property such as glasses, phones, and clothing. Our firm has helped Houston families recover hundreds of millions of dollars in serious injury and negligence cases. See our case results.
How Long Do I Have to File?
Texas generally gives you two years from the date of injury to file a dog bite lawsuit. Some situations change the clock:
2 Years
The general deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas.
Children
A child’s deadline is generally paused until age 18.
Government Claims
Claims involving a government entity can require written notice within about six months.
Evidence Fades
Video is erased and witnesses move. The sooner we start, the more we can protect.
The safest move is to contact an attorney as soon as possible so evidence and deadlines are preserved.
Our Proven Approach to Dog Bite Claims
We move quickly and systematically.
Immediate investigation
We secure photos and video, animal control reports, vaccination records, witness statements, and prior bite history.
Document the injuries
We work with your providers to capture scarring, nerve damage, infection, and PTSD symptoms.
Notify the insurers
We open claims with homeowners, renters, umbrella, or commercial carriers, preserve evidence, and stop adjuster pressure.
Settlement strategy
Once we know the full extent of your damages, we press for a fair settlement.
Lawsuit if needed
If the carrier will not be reasonable, The Texas Bulldog is ready for court.
What Does a Dog Bite Lawyer Cost?
We work on a contingency fee. You pay no attorney’s fee unless we recover money for you.
$0Upfront to hire us
$0Unless we win your case
$0For your first consultation
We advance the case costs and only get reimbursed if we win. If we do not, we absorb the loss ourselves.
Client Reviews
Nothing builds trust like hearing directly from the people we have helped. Here is what some of our clients say.
★★★★★
“Adam Miller and his staff are very kind, respectful and professional. They handled my situation very well and made me feel comfortable. I was even able to speak to him directly if I had to discuss any concern I had. I definitely recommend them.”
G Rodriguez
Google Review
★★★★★
“Miller Law Firm is your best choice if you are ever in an accident. They were with me every step of the way and helped me win big! Excellent customer service and an attorney that truly cares! Highly recommend!”
Devin Hebert
Google Review
★★★★★
“Adam Miller is representing me in regards to a vehicle related accident. He is honest, straight forward, and made me feel comfortable during a time of uncertainty. Do not hesitate to call the Miller Law Firm!”
Reed Harding
Google Review
★★★★★
“If you are ever in an accident contact the Miller Law Firm. They are so helpful and reliable. The staff there are amazing and knowledgeable about your case. If they don't know they will find out. Mr. Miller is amazing and funny. It's a Texas BullDog thing.”
Tericka Marshall
Google Review
Dog Bite Resources
Texas does not follow a simple strict-liability rule for dog bites, which makes these claims turn on facts most people do not know to preserve. These guides go deeper.
Texas Dog Bite Law in DetailHow liability works in Texas and what a victim has to show.Read the guide →Texas Dog Bite AttorneyThe steps that protect a claim in the hours and days after a bite.Read the guide →Texas Dog Bite ClaimsA victim’s guide to the claims process.Read the guide →Slip and Fall AccidentsPremises liability when a property owner is at fault.Read the guide →Burn Injury LawyerSevere injuries from fires, scalds, and chemicals.Read the guide →Catastrophic Injury LawyerLife-changing injuries and long-term care.Read the guide →
Dog Bite FAQs
Here are answers to common questions from dog bite victims in Houston and across Texas.
Do I have a case if the dog never bit anyone before?
Yes. A claim can be based on negligence or a leash-law violation even without a prior bite. Prior aggression can make the owner’s responsibility easier to prove.
What if the owner says I provoked the dog?
Insurers often raise provocation. We look at witness accounts, video, and medical findings. Even if you are found partly at fault, you may still recover under Texas proportionate responsibility, unless you are found more than 50% at fault.
The bite happened at an apartment complex. Can I sue the complex?
Possibly. Landlords and property managers may be liable if they knew of a dangerous dog and failed to act reasonably, such as ignoring complaints or allowing violations. Each case depends on the facts.
Will the dog be put down if I make a claim?
A civil claim is about compensation. Animal control decisions follow local public safety rules and the dog’s vaccination status. Filing an injury claim does not automatically mean the dog will be euthanized.
What if the dog’s owner is a friend or family member?
Claims are typically paid by insurance, not out of pocket. We handle these cases discreetly and professionally.
How much is my case worth?
Value depends on how strong liability is, scarring and medical needs, psychological impact, and insurance limits. We evaluate your case in a free consultation.
Who pays for a dog bite in Texas?
Most claims are paid by the owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. Some involve umbrella or commercial policies, such as bites at businesses, groomers, or apartment complexes. Some policies exclude certain breeds or dogs with a bite history.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Texas?
Generally, two years from the date of injury. A child’s deadline is generally paused until age 18, and claims involving a government entity can require written notice within a much shorter time. Do not wait to get legal advice.
What should I do right after a dog bite?
Get medical care, report the bite to animal control, photograph your injuries and the scene, collect the owner’s and witnesses’ information, and talk to a lawyer before you give a recorded statement to an insurer.
Can I recover compensation for scarring?
Yes. Texas law allows damages for disfigurement and permanent scarring, along with the cost of future treatment such as scar revision or reconstructive surgery.
Is there a dangerous-dog law in Texas?
Yes. Texas law defines a dangerous dog as one that makes an unprovoked attack outside its enclosure that causes bodily injury, or acts in a way that makes a person reasonably believe it will. Owners of dogs classified as dangerous must register them, restrain them, and carry at least $100,000 in liability insurance.
Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite claim?
If your injuries are more than minor, or the insurer disputes fault, a lawyer can protect your claim’s value. Our consultation is free, and we only get paid if you recover.
Ready to Speak With an Attorney?
Contact The Texas Bulldog
At The Miller Law Firm, we focus on injury law. We have helped Texans hold negligent parties accountable, and we do the heavy lifting while you recover.
Call (713) 572-3333 or request your free consultation today. Visit us at 4900 Woodway Drive, Suite 900, Houston, TX 77056.
Our Houston Office
Address4900 Woodway Drive, Suite 900
Houston, TX 77056
Houston, TX 77056
Phone(713) 572-3333
HoursMon–Fri: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Sat: Appointment Only
Sat: Appointment Only
ParkingFree covered garage parking for all clients visiting our Houston office