Dogs are known for their loyalty toward their owners, and they make great companions for people of all ages. However, not all dogs are friendly and harmless. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shares that approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs in the U.S. each year, and nearly 20% of those people require medical attention.
Dog Bite Injury Statistics
Dog bite injuries are a common occurrence in the United States. According to the CDC, children between the ages of 5 and 9 are the most common victims of dog bites, with most incidents occurring in the summer months.
In Texas alone, the Texas Department of State Health Services reported 4,365 dog bite incidents in 2020. The highest number of incidents happened in Harris County, and hundreds occurred in Austin and the surrounding areas.
Pit Bulls
Despite pit bulls being a social, friendly breed, they’re also one of the most dangerous when it comes to injuries.
Because pit bulls are often bred for illegal dog fighting, they are known for aggressive behavior and powerful bites. According to the CDC, pit bulls are responsible for most dog attacks in the United States, accounting for approximately 66% of all fatal dog injuries.
The pit bull breed has a muscular build and strong jaws, and their bites can result in severe injuries such as deep tissue wounds, broken bones, and lacerations.
Rottweilers
Rottweilers are muscular dogs that were initially bred for guarding and herding. Consequently, rottweilers are responsible for many dog bite injuries in the U.S., accounting for approximately 10% of all fatal dog attacks.
Due to their size and strength, Rottweilers can cause serious injuries such as fractures, dislocations, and severe lacerations — especially to young children and elderly adults.
German Shepherds
German Shepherds are large dogs with a long history of use on farms and for security purposes. They are an intelligent, loyal, and protective breed. However, due to their size and strength, they can cause significant injuries in the event of an attack.
German Shepherds are used worldwide in many law enforcement and military applications, and even a minor bite can lead to severe injuries and even death.
Huskies
Huskies are known for their striking appearance and friendly personality. However, they can be unpredictable and aggressive if not appropriately trained.
Huskies are responsible for many dog bite injuries, accounting for approximately 4.4% of all fatal dog attacks. Their sharp teeth and strong jaws designed for surviving in extreme cold can cause severe injuries such as deep tissue wounds, punctures, and lacerations.
Types of Injuries Due to Dog Bites
Dog bites can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe. Some of the most common injuries that result from dog attacks include:
- Puncture wounds
- Lacerations
- Bone fractures
- Dislocations
- Infections
In the most severe cases, dog bites can lead to permanent scarring, nerve damage, amputations, and even death.
Preventing Dog Bite Injuries
Education and responsible pet ownership are the most effective ways to prevent dog bite injuries and attacks.
Dog owners should socialize with their pets from a young age and train them to be well-behaved and non-aggressive. Additionally, it is essential to supervise dogs around children or unfamiliar individuals. Dog owners should also ensure that their pets are properly restrained on a leash or in a secure enclosure.
When interacting with a dog that is not familiar, you should avoid approaching the dog aggressively or suddenly. If you become injured due to a dog attack in Texas, you can likely pursue a personal injury claim to hold the owner accountable.
Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Austin, TX
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Austin and need legal help, contact our Austin personal injury lawyers at FVF Law to schedule a free consultation with our team.
FVF Law
3101 Bee Caves Rd #301, Austin, TX 78746, United States
(512) 982-9328
