Wisconsin Dog Bite Laws


Dogs in Wisconsin, just like in any other state, are considered man’s best friend; however, these pets, if untrained and neglected, may pose unforeseen legal difficulties to owners, especially in cases involving dog bites.
According to State Farm and the Insurance Information Institute, the total dog bite and related claims across the country — including in Wisconsin — amounted to $1.12 billion in 2023. This substantial amount included settlements and other damages awarded to the victims, such as medical expenses, which emphasizes the cost and possible difficulty of handling the repercussions of dog bites. This is why it is crucial for dog owners, dog bite victims, and legislators to gain an understanding of the dog bite laws in Wisconsin and the possible financial and even criminal ramifications associated with dog bites.
This article seeks to provide readers, regardless of whether they own dogs or are only looking for legal information, with an overview of Wisconsin dog bite laws. Additionally, it aims to link dog bite victims to the necessary resources they can use to aid in their recovery.
Dog Owner Responsibilities in Wisconsin
Taking care of a dog in Wisconsin is a privilege that comes with responsibility. Lawful dog owners must know what support their dogs need and the rules they need to follow in order to maintain a safe environment for their dogs and the community.
Among the responsibilities of dog owners are:
Getting a rabies vaccination from a veterinarian or vet tech.
Obtaining a rabies license for their dogs from the local government agencies.
Attaching the rabies vaccination tag or alternative tag to their dogs’ collars, which must be worn at all times.
Registering for a dog license and tags, which are necessary for keeping dogs that are over five months of age, per Wisconsin Legislature Section 174.07.
Keeping their dogs leashed and supervised when outside the yard to avoid nuisances or inconveniences in the community.
Preventing their dogs from defecating in public spaces or on someone else’s property.
Bringing the tools needed to clean up the dogs’ feces when outside and properly disposing of them within 24 hours.
Preventing the dogs from trespassing or running at large unattended or unleashed.
Breed-Specific Legislation in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is one of the states that impose breed-specific legislation. This involves regulations and restrictions for specific dog breeds based on their presumed behaviors. These breeds of dogs are banned due to the potential danger that they may cause to humans and other animals.
According to a census conducted, the breed of dog that is commonly banned in different cities in Wisconsin is the pit bull. Aside from pit bulls, there are certain dog breeds that are restricted in some cities:
However, there are contentions and discussions around these policies. Some organizations argue that BSL is based on false information and that it offers little protection to the public. These groups include the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Humane Society of the United States, the American Veterinary Medicine Association, and the American Bar Association.
The primary point of dispute that these organizations contend is the alleged biases associated with the BSL since it uses physical characteristics to classify the breeds to be restricted.
Liability Standards in Wisconsin Dog Bite Cases
Wisconsin follows a strict liability standard. According to this rule, a person who owns a dog can be held liable for the injuries it has caused to others, regardless of negligence. An example of this scenario is a dog that escaped from the yard without the owner’s knowledge. The owner is still financially responsible for any harm or damage that their dog may bring about, in accordance with Wisconsin Legislature Section 174.02.
The state does not have a “first-bite rule"; any type of dog attack, even if it occurs for the first time, is subject to legal prosecution. This rule differs from other U.S. states, which tend to forgive the owner if it is the dog’s first biting incident.
Dogs used by law enforcement agencies are also subject to some liability exemptions. In accordance with the state’s regulations, the owner of a police dog is not liable if the dog attacks suspects while on duty.
There are cases where dog owners may attempt to evade accountability by blaming the victim for their dogs’ aggression. For instance, one way for a dog owner to potentially be held less liable for a dog bite is to put a “No Trespassing” sign on their property. This precautionary sign infers that the illegal presence of an individual on the premises may have provoked the dog attack.
Hiring a dog bite lawyer in Wisconsin can help sort out these complications in establishing liability. An experienced legal counsel can aid in evaluating the case and ensuring that the at-fault party is held accountable.
Statute of Limitations in Wisconsin for Dog Bite Cases
Victims of dog attacks in Wisconsin are given three years from the date of the incident to file a claim. This statute of limitations for dog bite cases serves several essential purposes, such as timely resolutions and the recovery of adequate and full recompense for the injury incurred.
However, there is an exception to the three-year timeframe if the person who was bitten was a minor. The statute of limitations applied to these cases ends two years after the victim turns 18.
Civil Penalties for Dog Bites in Wisconsin
Dog owners in Wisconsin may face several consequences and penalties in the event of dog bites. According to Wisconsin law, they are responsible for the full amount of damages to the victims.
The state’s dog bite cases are further divided into two categories: before and after the owner had “notice.” Notice, in this context, refers to a prior biting incident involving the dog. If the dog has bitten someone in the past, this means there was already “notice,” and the dog owner will be required to pay double the amount of damages.
Before notice, fines ranging from $50 to $2,500 apply for injuries caused by the dog to individuals, domestic animals, deer, game birds, nests or eggs of game birds, and property. After notice, fines increase to $200 to $5,000 for the same offenses.
Criminal Penalties for Dog Bites in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, dog owners may face criminal charges, such as homicide or reckless endangerment, if their dogs gravely harm or kill someone.
Since certain dog breeds are prohibited in several areas of Wisconsin, the offending dog owners may face criminal fines, depending on the specific city regulations. Criminal charges for dog bites are brought by a prosecutor, unlike civil cases, in which the harmed party brings the claim.
Dogs with a record of aggression may also be euthanized. The court grants this action if the dog has attacked, with no provocation, on two or more occasions, with the dog owner having received notice of the first one.
Reporting and Handling Dog Bite Incidents
People who have experienced dog attacks in Wisconsin must take immediate steps to address potential complications:
Seek medical attention to prevent possible infections.
Obtain the names of the dog owner, witnesses, and the dog’s caretaker during the incident.
Report the dog bite incident to local authorities to establish an official record.
Document injuries and gather essential information, such as medical records and treatment receipts, to support potential claims.
Consult with an attorney who specializes in dog bite cases.
How To Find a Dog Bite Attorney in Wisconsin
Seeking legal counsel from a Wisconsin dog bite lawyer is advised in order to obtain compensation for any harm or losses one sustains. A lawyer can help victims navigate the legal process, handle negotiations, and collect evidence. In order to find out more about dog bite attorneys and how their history and experience may affect the cases they handle, potential plaintiffs should explore legal directories available online.
Relying on the adept legal strategies employed by experienced lawyers in the field of dog bite law, victims will be able to increase their chances of maximizing their compensation.
Other Resources for Dog Bite Victims in Wisconsin
ABC for Health, Inc.
Advocacy and Benefits Counseling for Health is a nonprofit public interest law firm that serves the people of Wisconsin. It seeks to help children and families who need access to health care and those who are having trouble paying their medical bills. It also helps Wisconsinites who want to know their eligibility for health benefits and assists those seeking to apply for a coverage program. In addition, the organization connects people to pro bono attorneys who can handle litigation matters.
Contact Information:
Address: 32 N. Bassett St., Madison, WI 53703
Phone: (608) 261-6939 x 210
Email: info@safetyweb.org
Access Community Health Centers
The nonprofit Access Community Health Centers advocates for the health care of Wisconsin communities. It offers medical, dental, and behavioral services to low-income individuals. It also offers pharmacy services through its affiliated companies. The group has been in operation since 1982.
Contact Information:
Address: 2901 West Beltline Highway, Suite 120, Madison, WI 53713
Phone: (608) 443-5500
Wisconsin Free Legal Answers
Wisconsin Free Legal Answers is a virtual platform that helps eligible individuals in the state with civil legal queries. It has volunteer lawyers on staff who answer the questions asked by users on the website. These attorneys may provide legal advice on topics such as health and disability, consumer rights, juvenile law, and housing issues. The program is under the American Bar Association’s Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service.
High Rise Financial
High Rise Financial offers pre-settlement loans to victims of personal injuries like dog attacks. It provides cash advances to claimants in Wisconsin based on the estimated value of their personal injury settlements. Since the legal funding is nonrecourse, clients are not obligated to return the money if their claim is unsuccessful. Eligible individuals may use the fund for expenses like medication and hospital bills.
Contact Information:
Address:11110 Ohio Ave., Suite #207, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Phone: (877) 711-3153

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