Georgia has unique regulations that vary across the state. Depending on which city and county you are in, the regulations about dog breeds may be different.
If you have been involved in a dog bite incident, the physical and emotional trauma can be significant. You do not have to struggle alone. As an experienced Marietta personal injury lawyer, we understand how challenging it can be when an animal or dog attacks you.
One-Year-Old Child Killed By Family Dog in Georgia
In 2023, a child was killed by the family dog when visiting his Grandmother’s home in Jeff Davis County, Georgia. The 1-year-old boy was attacked in the playground area set up in the grandparents’ yard. The dog was a family pet that stayed in both the house and the yard.
Dog Breeds: Some Dogs Bite and Kill in Georgia
According to a report on DogsBite.Org, in the 15 years between 2005 through 2019, canines killed 521 Americans. Of these, pit bulls contributed to 66% of these deaths, totaling 346. Combined, pit bulls and Rottweilers contributed to 76% of the recorded fatalities.
Over 900 U.S. cities have enacted breed-specific legislation. The laws range from location restrictions to spaying and neutering ordinances.
Why Do Dog Breeds Matter in Cobb County?
Most people think of dogs as ‘man’s best friend.’ They are traditionally favored as a friend, a guardian, a sentry, or a companion. Many dogs live in the home and yard and are treated as a member of the family.
According to an article on the Spruce Pets, specific breeds make wonderful companions. These include breeds that are known for being friendly and eager to please.
Companion dogs can have a positive impact on individuals who live alone. They are often encouraged as a friendly dog reduces loneliness, encourages socializing, and inspires walking.
However, specific breeds of dogs have a reputation for being more vicious and likely to harm innocent people. These breeds may be involved more frequently in attacks and dog bites. For this reason, different counties and cities across Georgia have adopted local dog breed restrictions.
What are Dog Breed Restrictions in Georgia?
Marietta prohibits Pitbulls and Rottweilers from dog parks. These breeds are also prohibited from off-leash areas.
Cobb County requires certification, registration, and insurance for dangerous or potentially dangerous dogs.
West Point considers Pit bulls, Rottweillers, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Chows, Presa Canarios, and wolf hybrids as potentially vicious.
College Park deems pit bulls, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, and German Shepherds as potentially dangerous.
What is Georgia’s Dog Bite Rule?
In Georgia, the law is popularly called “the one-bite” rule. The key idea to understand is that a dog owner is considered negligent if they did something wrong. The owner will be considered liable if they know that the dog is dangerous or vicious. The owner can be held responsible for injuries and property damage caused by the dog if the attack was not provoked.
The Georgia state law defines a dog as vicious or dangerous if it previously attacked a person similar to the current individual or victim. Further, a dog may be considered vicious or dangerous if it is unleashed in an area where it is required to be leashed.
A Caring Marietta Personal Injury Lawyer is Here for You
Getting bitten or attacked is often shocking and traumatic. You may want to learn more about what legal action is possible.