My puppy bit a neighbor... can they sue?

[fiacre68]

I took my puppy on a walk today and one of our neighbors saw us on the sidewalk. Seeing the dog, he squealed in excitement and asked if he could pet the puppy. He asked if the puppy bit, and I said "No" (because he never has before) so the man flung himself at the dog. My puppy has NEVER bit anyone before, but I guess he felt intimidated because he bit the guy right away! The man dropped him immediately and yelled out — I think he punctured his skin.

I feel this is partially the neighbor's fault because the manner in which he picked up the puppy (when he clearly just asked to PET him) almost seemed like an attack. I don't blame my dog for biting him lol. Anyway, I don't know this man, but he lives in our large neighborhood....do you think he could track us down and sue? If so, what are the legal implications of this (will my dog be taken away, is there a fine, will nothing happen, etc?)

He is fully vaccinated and was on a leash when this happened. However, it wasn't my property we were on, just neighborhood grounds in front of stores and stuff, e.g the public sidewalk.

thank you!!

[devon]

It really depends on what country you live in eg.if you live in New Zealand we I live you cant sue people,And if you want your puppy to stop biting people just firmly say NO in a loud and clear tone of Voice Or try puppy school.Hope this Helps.

[fyfe]

Only if you live in a certain country and if he broke or tore off any part of there body.

[michelangelo]

Okay first question. This was a grown man sqealing over a puppy? If so lol

Second I believe it was you neighbors fault. Every human being should know before touching and animal you allow it to sniff your hand and see how it reacts. Also you should never pick up an animal you do not own without specifically asking"may I pick up your dog" so no he should not be able to sue due to the fact it was mostly his fault if not all his fault

[jung-hwa75]

The pet was on a leash on public property and has all shots. You are a RESPONSIBLE pet owner - Awesome ! Good for you ! If you told the person that he does not bite after asking "just to pet the dog," then they went ahead and picked up the dog instead of just petting the dog like they asked, this would not have happened. If you want to pet someones dog,and instead pick him/her up and get bit it is their fault, as they were NOT given permission to pick up your dog. Your dog felt uncomfortable. For safety, check with your neighborhood police department and look in the phone book for an atty that will give you a free consultation and ask them about any possible legal problems that may occur. I wish you the best.

[ricki]

Yes

It doenst matter if the man was an idiot, he can sue you for your dog biting depending on where you are and the laws.

[barend31]

Your dog, your responsibility, even if the guy was an idiot. He will need to provide doctor's bills to prove he was injured.
You can probably claim this on your homeowners insurance.