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Dog attacks and bites: the law and owner liability
It is a criminal offence for a dog to be dangerously out of control anywhere, including in the owner's home, under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. If a dog injures someone, the owner can face up to 5 years in prison, and up to 14 years if the attack is fatal. Separately, victims can often claim compensation from the owner.
General information for the UK, checked on 2026-09-23. It is not legal or veterinary advice. For your own situation, speak to a solicitor, your local council or a vet.
What "dangerously out of control" means
A dog is dangerously out of control if it injures someone, or if a person reasonably fears it will. This can happen in a public place or a private one, including the owner's own home or garden.
Criminal penalties (England and Wales)
| If the dog injures someone | Up to 5 years in prison and/or an unlimited fine |
|---|---|
| If the attack is fatal | Up to 14 years in prison |
| If the dog injures or kills an assistance dog | Up to 3 years in prison |
The court can also order the dog to be destroyed and ban the owner from keeping dogs.
Compensation for a dog bite
A person injured by a dog may be able to claim compensation from the owner, for example under the Animals Act 1971 or in negligence. Many home and pet insurance policies include third-party liability cover for owners. See Be Injury Wise for how personal injury claims work.
What to do after an attack
- Get medical help for any injury, and call 999 if someone is in danger
- Report the attack to the police (999 in an emergency, 101 otherwise)
- Note the owner's details, witnesses, and take photos of injuries and the location
- If your dog was attacked, get it checked by a vet and keep the bills
Scotland and Northern Ireland
The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 also applies in Scotland, where councils can also issue dog control notices under the Control of Dogs (Scotland) Act 2010. Northern Ireland has its own dog laws, including the Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1983.
Frequently asked questions
Is it an offence if my dog bites someone in my own home?
It can be. In England and Wales, a dog can be dangerously out of control in any place, including the owner's home, although there is some protection where a dog attacks a trespasser in a home.
What is the penalty if a dog injures someone?
Up to 5 years in prison and/or an unlimited fine in England and Wales, rising to up to 14 years if the attack is fatal. The court can also order the dog to be destroyed.
Can I claim compensation for a dog bite?
Often, yes. The owner may be liable under the Animals Act 1971 or in negligence, and many owners have liability cover through home or pet insurance.
Who do I report a dog attack to?
The police: call 999 if someone is in danger, or 101 otherwise. You can also tell your council's dog warden.
Sources
- Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, section 3 (legislation.gov.uk)
- Animals Act 1971, section 2 (legislation.gov.uk)
- GOV.UK: Controlling your dog in public
Related guides
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- Pets and renting: your rights as a tenant
- Dogs: care, health, law and costs
- Microchipping law for dogs and cats in the UK
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.