Does a dog get euthanized if it bites someone?

Most people like dogs and may be reluctant to report if they are bitten. They worry that the dog will be euthanized as a result. 

It’s important to have the facts regarding dog bites so they can make an informed decision.

What is a “dangerous dog?”

First, in most situations, the dog isn’t euthanized the first time they bite someone. Instead, the incident is evaluated in a series of steps:

1. The bite should be immediately reported to animal control or the local police department. The dog may be required to be quarantined for about 10 days to make sure the dog isn’t showing signs of rabies.  
2. Animal control officers will investigate the incident to determine the severity of the bite, the circumstances surrounding the bite, if the dog has a prior history of aggression and if the owners have made any attempt to control their dog with fencing or leashes.
3. If animal control officers have concerns, the case may fall under New Jersey’s “dangerous dog” laws.

A hearing must take place for the official designation of “dangerous.” If the court hears evidence that the dog severely injured or killed someone without provocation or attacked another animal and continues to pose a risk to public safety, they will likely deem that the dog meets the legal definition of “dangerous dog.”

Dog owners also have rights and are entitled to present evidence during the hearing, such as:

• Expert testimony from dog trainers or people trained in animal behaviors
• Proof that the dog was provoked
• Evidence the dog was protecting their owner
• Steps taken to prevent the risk of future incidents

If the court concludes that a dog is dangerous, they will likely require it to be kept in a secure enclosure. If it’s outside of its enclosure, it needs to be muzzled.

It’s unlikely that the court will order the dog to be euthanized after a single bite, especially if the owner shows they are taking steps to prevent future incidents. However, repeated instances of dog biting indicate that the owner lacks responsibility and control of their dog. In that event, other steps must be considered.