US-New York

Dog Bite Liability in New York

3 years
Statute of limitations for personal injury claims
$0
No minimum damages threshold to file suit
90 days
Deadline to file a dangerous dog hearing petition with local authorities
100%
Owner's potential liability if vicious propensity is proven
The Short Answer

In New York, dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dog if the owner knew or should have known of its vicious propensities — but strict liability does not apply automatically for first bites.

What the Law Says

Practical Steps

Important Deadlines

When to See a Lawyer

Sources

statuteNY Agriculture & Markets Law § 121statuteNY Agriculture & Markets Law § 123statuteNY CPLR § 214(5) – Statute of LimitationsgovernmentNY Department of Agriculture and Markets – Dog Bites Guidance

Related Questions

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Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-10-18.