Atlanta Dog Bite Lawyer
Dog attacks cause real injuries — broken bones, permanent scarring, nerve damage, emotional trauma. Georgia law holds dog owners accountable. We make sure they pay.
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Overview
Dog Bite Injuries Are More Serious Than Most People Think
When people hear “dog bite,” they picture a minor nip. Something you put a bandage on and move on from. That is not the reality for thousands of dog bite victims in Georgia every year.
Dog attacks cause devastating injuries. Deep puncture wounds that damage muscles and tendons. Broken bones from being knocked to the ground by a large dog. Nerve damage that causes permanent numbness or loss of function. Infections — including life-threatening conditions like sepsis — from bacteria in the animal’s mouth. Severe facial scarring, especially in children. And emotional trauma — PTSD, anxiety, fear of dogs — that persists for years.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur in the United States each year. About 800,000 people seek medical attention for dog bites each year, and the rate of dog bite injuries is highest among children ages 5 to 9.
If you or your child was attacked by a dog in Atlanta or anywhere in Georgia, you have legal rights. The dog’s owner is likely liable for your injuries — and their homeowner’s or renter’s insurance may be required to pay your claim. But insurance companies do not pay willingly. You need a lawyer who knows Georgia’s dog bite laws and will fight for the full value of your injuries.
Call The Gunn Law Group at 888-BIG-GUNN (888-244-4866) for a free consultation.
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Call 888-BIG-GUNN Request a Free Case ReviewGeorgia Dog Bite Law: O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7
Georgia’s dog bite statute is found at O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7. Unlike some states that impose “strict liability” for all dog bites (meaning the owner is automatically liable regardless of whether they knew the dog was dangerous), Georgia follows a modified approach that requires proof of certain conditions.
Under O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7, a dog owner can be held liable for a bite injury if:
- The dog was vicious or dangerous — meaning it had a propensity to attack or bite
- The owner knew of the dog’s vicious propensity — or should have known, through prior behavior, complaints, or incidents
- The owner was careless in managing the dog — or allowed the dog to go at liberty (off-leash, unsecured) — and the injured person did not provoke the dog
This is sometimes called the “one bite rule” or “first bite rule” — but that name is misleading.
The “First Bite Rule” — What It Actually Means
The common misconception about Georgia’s dog bite law is that a dog gets “one free bite” — that an owner is not liable until the dog has already bitten someone. That is not accurate.
The actual rule is about knowledge of vicious propensity. The question is whether the owner knew — or reasonably should have known — that the dog was dangerous. A prior bite is one way to prove that knowledge, but it is not the only way.
Evidence that can establish the owner’s knowledge of vicious propensity includes:
- Prior biting incidents — The dog has bitten someone before, even if no lawsuit was filed
- Aggressive behavior — Lunging at people, growling, snapping, chasing, or charging
- Complaints from neighbors — Reports to animal control or the landlord about the dog’s behavior
- Breed-specific behavior warnings — When the owner knew the dog was a breed commonly associated with aggression and failed to take precautions
- History of escaping confinement — The dog has gotten loose before and exhibited aggressive behavior
- Owner’s own admissions — Telling others the dog is aggressive, posting “Beware of Dog” signs, muzzling the dog in public
A “Beware of Dog” sign can actually be used as evidence that the owner knew the dog was dangerous. If they posted the sign, they acknowledged the risk.
The bottom line: you do not need to prove the dog bit someone before. You need to prove the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous. An experienced dog bite lawyer knows how to build that evidence.
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Leash Laws and Local Ordinances
Georgia law, combined with local county and city ordinances, creates additional avenues for dog bite liability.
State Law: Running at Large
Under Georgia law, allowing a dog to “go at liberty” (run free, off-leash, unsecured) is a factor in establishing owner liability under O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7. If the dog was off-leash or escaped from inadequate confinement when it bit you, this strengthens your claim.
Atlanta and Fulton County Leash Laws
The City of Atlanta and Fulton County have leash laws requiring dogs to be securely leashed or confined whenever they are off the owner’s property. Under O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7, proof that the dog was not leashed or at heel as a local ordinance required is enough, by itself, to establish the dog’s vicious propensity — no prior bite needed.
DeKalb County
DeKalb County has its own animal control ordinances requiring dogs to be confined to the owner’s property or on a leash. Violations create a strong basis for negligence claims.
Gwinnett County
Gwinnett County requires dogs to be confined or leashed when off the owner’s property. Our Norcross office at 5955 Jimmy Carter Blvd serves dog bite victims throughout Gwinnett County.
Cobb County, Clayton County, and Other Metro Atlanta Jurisdictions
Most metro Atlanta counties and cities have leash laws. If the dog was off-leash in violation of an applicable city or county leash ordinance at the time of the attack, O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7 treats that violation as sufficient proof of the dog’s vicious propensity.
Homeowner’s Insurance and Dog Bite Claims
Here is something many dog bite victims do not realize: most dog bite claims are paid by the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance or renter’s insurance policy.
Standard homeowner’s insurance policies include liability coverage that covers injuries caused by the policyholder’s dog. The Insurance Information Institute reports that insurers paid $1.86 billion for dog-related injury claims in 2025, with an average cost of $65,450 per claim.
This means the money to compensate you already exists in most cases — it is sitting in an insurance policy. The question is how much of it the insurance company will actually pay.
And the answer to that question depends entirely on who is representing you.
How Insurance Companies Handle Dog Bite Claims
When you file a dog bite claim against a homeowner’s insurance policy, the insurance company will:
- Assign an adjuster who will investigate the claim, take your statement, and try to minimize the payout
- Question whether the dog was actually dangerous — even if it just mauled you
- Argue comparative fault — claim you provoked the dog, trespassed, or were negligent
- Offer a quick, low settlement — hoping you will take it before you understand the full cost of your injuries
- Deny coverage — some policies exclude certain breeds or dogs with prior bite histories
An experienced dog bite attorney knows these tactics and counters every one of them. At The Gunn Law Group, we handle the insurance company from day one — so you can focus on healing.
Breed-Specific Exclusions
Some homeowner’s insurance policies exclude coverage for certain breeds — pit bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Dobermans, and others. If the dog owner’s policy has a breed exclusion, we explore other avenues for recovery, including:
- The owner’s personal assets
- Landlord liability (if the landlord knew a dangerous dog was on the property)
- Umbrella or excess liability policies
- Other liable parties (dog sitters, walkers, kennel operators)
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888-BIG-GUNNTypes of Dog Bite Injuries
Dog bite injuries range from mild to catastrophic. The severity depends on the size and breed of the dog, the location of the bite, the victim’s age and size, and the duration of the attack.
Puncture Wounds and Lacerations
Deep bite wounds that damage muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These often require surgical repair and leave permanent scars.
Broken Bones
Large dogs can knock victims to the ground, causing broken wrists, arms, hips, and facial bones. Children and elderly victims are especially vulnerable.
Nerve Damage
Dog bites to the hands, arms, and face can sever or damage nerves, causing permanent numbness, weakness, or loss of function.
Infections
Dog bites carry a high risk of infection due to bacteria in the animal’s mouth. Common infections include cellulitis, pasteurella, MRSA, and in rare cases, rabies. Severe infections can become life-threatening.
Facial Scarring and Disfigurement
Dog bites to the face — which are disproportionately common in children — can cause permanent scarring and disfigurement requiring multiple reconstructive surgeries.
Emotional and Psychological Trauma
Dog attack victims — especially children — frequently develop PTSD, anxiety disorders, fear of animals, nightmares, and other psychological conditions that require therapy and may persist for years.
Dog Bites and Children
Children are the most frequent victims of dog bites and suffer the most severe injuries. A child’s smaller size means bites are more likely to hit the face, head, and neck. A child cannot defend themselves against a large, aggressive dog.
If your child was bitten by a dog in Atlanta or metro Georgia:
- Seek immediate medical attention — even if the wound appears minor, dog bites can cause serious infections
- Report the incident to animal control
- Document everything — photograph the injuries and the location
- Do not give statements to the dog owner’s insurance company before speaking with a lawyer
- Contact The Gunn Law Group at 888-BIG-GUNN — we handle dog bite claims for children with the sensitivity and aggression these cases demand
Georgia’s statute of limitations for minors is tolled (paused) until the child reaches age 18 in most personal injury cases, but it is always best to act promptly while evidence is fresh.
What to Do After a Dog Bite in Atlanta
- Get medical treatment immediately — Go to the emergency room or urgent care. Dog bite wounds need professional cleaning, antibiotics, and often stitches or surgery.
- Report the bite to animal control — Fulton County (which also provides animal control inside the City of Atlanta), DeKalb County, and Gwinnett County all have animal control services. Filing a report creates an official record.
- Identify the dog and owner — Get the owner’s name, address, and contact information. Ask if the dog is up to date on vaccinations, especially rabies.
- Photograph your injuries — Take photos of the wounds immediately and throughout the healing process. Also photograph the location where the attack occurred.
- Get witness information — If anyone saw the attack, get their contact information.
- Do not give the owner’s insurance company a recorded statement — Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim.
- Call The Gunn Law Group at 888-BIG-GUNN — We offer free consultations and can advise you on your legal options immediately.
Damages You Can Recover in a Georgia Dog Bite Case
Dog bite victims in Georgia can recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses — Emergency treatment, surgery, reconstructive procedures, antibiotics, therapy
- Future medical costs — Scar revision surgery, ongoing therapy, future reconstructive work
- Lost wages — Time missed from work during recovery
- Pain and suffering — Physical pain from the attack and ongoing discomfort
- Emotional distress — PTSD, anxiety, fear, sleep disturbances
- Scarring and disfigurement — Compensation for permanent visible scars
- Loss of enjoyment of life — Fear of going outside, inability to enjoy activities with pets
- Wrongful death — If a dog attack caused a fatality
Why Choose The Gunn Law Group for Your Dog Bite Case
We Take Dog Bite Cases Seriously. Many law firms view dog bites as small cases. We do not. A dog attack can cause permanent disfigurement, chronic pain, and debilitating psychological trauma. These cases deserve real legal representation.
We Know Georgia Dog Bite Law. O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7 has specific elements that must be proven. We know how to investigate vicious propensity, gather evidence of prior incidents, and establish the owner’s knowledge.
We Handle the Insurance Company. Homeowner’s insurance adjusters will try to minimize your claim. We do not let them. We document every injury, every medical bill, every impact on your life — and we fight for the full amount.
500+ Five-Star Reviews. Our clients trust us because we communicate, we care, and we deliver.
No Fee Unless We Recover for You. You pay nothing out of pocket. We only get paid when you do.
Call 888-BIG-GUNN (888-244-4866) for a free dog bite case consultation today.
Across Georgia
Dog Bite Lawyers Serving All of Georgia
Hurt somewhere else in the state? We handle dog bite cases across Georgia. See our dog bite practice overview and our local pages:
Carrollton Dog Bite LawyerDecatur Dog Bite LawyerGainesville Dog Bite LawyerJohns Creek Dog Bite LawyerKennesaw Dog Bite LawyerMarietta Dog Bite LawyerNorcross Dog Bite LawyerRome Dog Bite LawyerSavannah Dog Bite LawyerSmyrna Dog Bite LawyerSouth Fulton Dog Bite Lawyer
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. Georgia requires proof that the dog owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous (O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7). A prior bite is one way to prove this, but it is not the only way. Aggressive behavior, complaints from neighbors, and the dog being off-leash in violation of a local leash ordinance can all establish liability — even for a first bite.
Yes. Under O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7, you can sue the dog owner if they knew or should have known the dog was vicious or dangerous and failed to control the animal. You can also pursue a claim against the owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy.
Most homeowner’s and renter’s insurance policies cover dog bite liability. However, some policies exclude certain breeds. An experienced dog bite attorney can identify all available insurance coverage and pursue the maximum recovery.
Seek medical attention immediately. Report the bite to animal control. Identify the dog and owner. Photograph your injuries and the location. Get witness contact information. Do not give a recorded statement to any insurance company. Call 888-BIG-GUNN for a free consultation.
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Georgia is generally two years from the date of the attack (O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33). For minor children, the statute may be tolled. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Yes, in certain circumstances. If the landlord knew a dangerous dog was being kept on the property and failed to take action — such as enforcing a lease provision against dangerous animals — the landlord may share liability for the attack.
This is a common defense. Under O.C.G.A. § 51-2-7, an owner is liable only to a person who did not provoke the injury, so proven provocation can defeat the claim entirely. For other fault arguments, Georgia applies comparative negligence (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33) — if you are found less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. The Gunn Law Group knows how to counter provocation defenses with evidence.
Talk to a Georgia Injury Attorney Today
Your consultation is free, and you never pay an attorney fee unless we recover for you. Call 888-BIG-GUNN (888-244-4866).
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Two Offices Serving All of Georgia
We represent injured people throughout Metro Atlanta and across Georgia, with free consultations by phone, by video or in person. Hablamos español.
Atlanta Office (Buckhead)
950 E. Paces Ferry Rd NE, Suite 1550
Atlanta, GA 30326
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Call Buckhead: 770-800-0945Norcross / Gwinnett County Office
5955 Jimmy Carter Blvd, Suite 149
Norcross, GA 30071
Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Call Norcross: 678-200-0273Attorney advertising. This page is a communication from The Gunn Law Group, 950 E. Paces Ferry Rd NE, Suite 1550, Atlanta, GA 30326. Responsible attorney: Harrell Gunn. The information on this page is general information, not legal advice, and contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results and client reviews do not guarantee a similar outcome; every case depends on its own facts. “No fee unless we recover for you” refers only to fees charged by the attorney. Court costs and other additional expenses of legal action usually must be paid by the client. Contingent fees are not permitted in all types of cases. Privacy Policy · Disclaimer · Terms
