A dog bite can be frightening and painful, and may leave lasting scars — both physical and psychological. If you’ve been bitten or injured by someone else’s dog, you may be entitled to compensation. This guide explains dog bite injury claims in England & Wales.
Who Is Responsible When a Dog Bites?
In most cases, the dog’s owner (or the person in charge of it) is responsible. Under the Animals Act 1971, owners can be held strictly liable for injuries caused by their dog in certain circumstances. The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 also makes it a criminal offence to allow a dog to be dangerously out of control — and a criminal prosecution can sit alongside your civil compensation claim.
What Can You Claim For?
- The injury itself, including pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement, which can be significant in dog bite cases
- Psychological injury, such as anxiety or a new fear of dogs
- Lost earnings and medical or cosmetic treatment costs
What to Do After a Dog Bite
- Get medical attention — dog bites carry a real risk of infection.
- Report it to the police and/or your local council’s dog warden.
- Identify the owner and gather their details.
- Take photos of your injuries and note any witnesses.
- Seek legal advice to assess your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much compensation can I get for a dog bite?
It depends on the severity of the injury, any scarring, psychological effects and your financial losses. Cases involving permanent scarring or serious injury attract higher awards.
What if the dog had never bitten anyone before?
You may still have a claim. Liability doesn’t always depend on the dog having a history of aggression, particularly under the Animals Act.
How long do I have to claim?
You generally have three years from the date of the incident to make a personal injury claim in England & Wales (a different limit applies for children).
Is a dog bite claim No Win No Fee?
Yes — Din Solicitors handles dog bite injury claims on a No Win, No Fee basis, with nothing to pay upfront and nothing to pay if your claim is unsuccessful.
Start Your Dog Bite Claim
If you’ve been injured by a dog that wasn’t under proper control, Din Solicitors can help you claim across England & Wales on a No Win, No Fee basis. Explore our personal injury services, start your claim today, or call 01422 647175.