Dogs are wonderful companions. They bring joy, loyalty, and comfort to millions of people every day. But when a dog is not properly trained, supervised, or handled, it can cause serious harm in an instant.
Dog bite injuries are more common than most people realize. Some involve small dogs, others large breeds, and many fall somewhere in between. There is a common misconception that only certain types of dogs are dangerous, but the truth is simple: if a dog has teeth, it can bite.
When that happens, you may need an experienced dog bite attorney in Washington, DC or Maryland to protect your rights and help you recover.
Dog Bite Statistics
According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the United States. Nearly 800,000 of those bites require medical attention, and about 370,000 victims visit the emergency room.
No matter how those numbers break down, one thing remains consistent: victims of dog bites may be able to hold the dog’s owner responsible for their injuries.
Dog Bite Injuries and Complications
Dog bites are not just painful; they can be medically serious. The severity of an injury depends on factors like the depth of the bite, the location on the body, and the force involved. Injuries can affect the skin, muscles, and even bones.
Beyond the initial wound, infections and diseases are a major concern. Some of the most common complications include:
- Tetanus: A bacterial toxin that can lead to muscle stiffness and paralysis
- Rabies: Rare but potentially fatal, transmitted through saliva
- MRSA: A resistant staph infection that can spread beyond the wound
- Capnocytophaga: A bacterium that can be dangerous for those with weakened immune systems
- Pasteurella: Causes swelling, redness, and possible infection
Because of these risks, it is critical to seek medical attention immediately after a bite.
Which Dogs Bite the Most?
Many people assume dog bites are limited to large breeds. But, studies and reports have shown that a wide range of breeds are involved in bite incidents, including:
- Chihuahua
- Bulldog
- Pit Bull
- German Shepherd
- Australian Shepherd
- Lhasa Apso
- Jack Russell Terrier
- Cocker Spaniel
- Bull Terrier
- Pekingese
- Papillon
This list includes both small and large dogs, and it does not account for mixed breeds. The takeaway is clear: any dog can bite.
You should never assume a dog is harmless based on size or breed alone. A dog’s behavior is often influenced by training, environment, and how it has been treated.
What to Do After a Dog Bite
If a dog bites you, your priority should always be your health and well-being.
- Seek immediate medical attention at a hospital ER or from your PCP.
- Document the incident and your injuries
- Report the attack to Animal Control and to the police.
If you know the owner, contact that person and request the name and number of the dog’s veterinarian. Ask for the identity of the homeowners’ property insurance and contact information, as all such policies contain insurance coverage for dog bites.
Real Risks in DC and Maryland
There were several news headlines in 2025 about dog attacks. One included a 12-year-old girl, who was walking with one of her friends. A German Shepherd ran, latched onto her arm, and wouldn’t let go.
NBC4 writes, “Neighbors say they have been asking for safeguards to protect them from the dog after a woman was attacked over the summer. No charges have been filed, but Animal Services said the owner signed over custody of the dog, which has been euthanized.”
In another incident, Fox 5 News reported on a dog attack that left 3 people injured. According to the report, it was a mother and her two children. The story reads, “The call for service came in at 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday. First responders were dispatched to the 3900 block of Suitland Road, where it was reported that three juveniles had been hurt by a dog. The three victims, at least two of whom are reportedly juveniles, were taken to the hospital with serious but not life-threatening injuries.”
Those people are the more fortunate ones; some people don’t survive, or are left with lifelong injuries after being attacked by a dog.
How a Dog Bite Attorney Can Help
An experienced dog bite attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Legal teams with experience in these claims will:
- Investigate the incident
- Gather evidence and medical documentation
- Determine liability
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Fight for compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering in court.
In both Washington, DC, and Maryland, dog owners can be held responsible for their pets’ actions. However, proving liability requires legal knowledge and strategy.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Dog bite claims are rarely as simple as they seem. Without proper representation, you may face:
- Denied claims
- Reduced settlements from what an experienced personal injury lawyer can obtain for you.
- Aggravation from the insurance company, whose goal is to pay as little as possible for the extent and nature of your or your child’s injuries
An experienced attorney ensures your case is taken seriously and that you or your child’s r injuries are properly valued in terms of adequate compensation.
Dog Bite Attorneys in Washington, DC and Maryland
If a dog has bitten you or a loved one, you do not have to handle it alone.
The Dog Bite Attorneys at The Lapidus Law Firm have decades of experience helping victims in both Washington, DC, and Maryland pursue fair and reasonable compensation. Their team understands the physical, emotional, and financial impact of these injuries and works to hold negligent dog owners accountable.
You did not deserve to be injured. And you should not have to deal with the consequences on your own. If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Washington, DC, or Maryland, contact The Lapidus Law Firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
- Washington, DC: (202) 785-5111
- Maryland: (301) 852-7500
Your case deserves attention, and your recovery deserves priority. And remember, we will fight to make things right!