If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be wondering what steps to take next. Whether the dog is a stray dog, a neighbour’s pet or a guard dog, a dog bite incident can have legal and medical consequences. Even if you don’t need medical treatment, the owner of an aggressive or dangerous dog should be held to account for their dog’s actions, and there are legal options you can rely on to ensure this happens.

Some people hesitate to report a dog bite attack, especially if the dog belongs to a friend or family member, because they worry about what will happen to the animal. Others are unsure whether the attack is serious enough to involve the authorities. However, the law sets clear guidelines on when a dog is considered dangerously out of control. Reporting an incident can help prevent future attacks and will also support any compensation claim you decide to pursue - but what happens next will depend on the circumstances of the attack. Here, we explain what happens when a dog bite is reported.

What happens after a dog attack is reported?

Under UK law, the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 regulates certain breeds and sets out the legal responsibilities of dog owners.. When a dog bite is reported, the authorities will assess the case to determine the appropriate course of action. This includes considering:

• Where the attack took place: if the dog was in a public space or entered private property unlawfully, the owner may face more severe consequences. However, dog owners are legally required to keep their pets under control, even within their own homes or gardens.
• The dog’s history of aggression: if the dog has previously shown aggressive behaviour, stricter control measures may be imposed. In some cases, the dog may be deemed dangerous and removed from the owner’s care.
• Whether the attack was provoked: if the dog was deliberately provoked, such as through interference with a guard dog in a restricted area, this may influence how the case is handled. However, provocation does not always absolve the owner of responsibility, particularly if the dog was dangerously out of control.
• If the dog is a banned breed: certain breeds, such as pit bull terriers, are prohibited in the UK under breed-specific legislation. If the dog falls into this category, the owner could face prosecution, and the authorities may seize the dog.

In some cases, the owner may be required to take steps to prevent further incidents, such as working with a professional dog behaviourist, keeping the dog on a lead and muzzled in public, or making changes to their home to improve safety. Failure to take appropriate action could result in legal consequences, including fines, or in some cases, criminal charges.

Euthanasia is not an automatic outcome when a dog bite is reported. Many cases are resolved with measures that allow the dog to remain with its owner. Authorities will consider the circumstances of the incident and the steps the owner is willing to take. However, if they fail to comply, further legal action may be taken - and they may have the dog removed from their care, with the possibility of it being rehomed or placed under the control of an appropriate organisation.

Can I make a compensation claim for a dog bite?

Dog bites can cause serious injuries, including deep wounds, infections, nerve damage, and psychological trauma. Even minor bites can lead to complications if left untreated, particularly if the dog is not properly vaccinated. If you have suffered physical injuries or psychological trauma as a result of a dog attack, you may be entitled to seek compensation.

The most common way to seek compensation for a dog bite injury is through a personal injury claim. A dog bite specialist solicitor will assess your case and take on the work of recovering the compensation you deserve. If the dog’s owner has pet insurance with liability cover, the claim may be made against their insurer rather than the owner themselves.

What should I do if I've been bitten?

There are a few important steps to take straight away following a dog bite:

• Get medical attention: seeking prompt medical care protects your health and strengthens any potential compensation claim. Even minor wounds can lead to infection, while deeper bites may cause lasting damage. Cleaning the wound with warm water, covering it with a sterile dressing and following up with a doctor can help prevent complications. Medical records, prescriptions for antibiotics or tetanus shots, and treatment notes all serve as key evidence if you later pursue a claim.
• Report the attack: informing the local dog warden, the police or the council ensures the incident will be officially recorded and investigated. This can help prevent further incidents, particularly if the dog has a history of aggression. An official report will also support your claim.
• Collect witness details: if anyone saw the incident, ask for their contact information as their account could provide valuable support. Witness statements can help clarify what happened, especially if there is any dispute over the events. A solicitor can follow up with them later to gather a formal statement if needed.
• Gather evidence: photos of the wound at different stages of healing, records of medical treatment, and details of any financial losses - such as medical expenses or time off work - can all help demonstrate the impact of the attack on your life and finances.

Personal injury claims usually have a three-year deadline, but waiting too long can make it harder to gather strong evidence. Acting quickly to document your injuries, collect witness details and keep medical records will help build a stronger case and improve your chances of securing compensation.

How Switalskis can help you

If you’ve suffered physical or psychological harm from a dog bite, the dog bite compensation claim solicitors at Switalskis will help you claim the compensation you deserve. Let us handle the legal side of things while you focus on your recovery. Call us on 0800 138 0458 or contact us through our website .