New Study Identifies Dog Breeds With Worst Bites

The American Animal Hospital Association reported on a new study last year that identified the most damaging dog bites according to breed. According to the AAHA, nearly five million people in the United States are bitten by a dog every year, and the most common victims are young children attacked by family pets. While dogs are seen as man’s best friend, a dog bite attack can cause devastating injuries to a victim that often results in permanent disfigurement or disability. If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog in the Atlanta area, you may have a claim for damages. Call the office or contact us today at the office of Jonathan R. Brockman, P.C. to schedule a free case consultation.

Dog Bite Study

The study, published in the International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, explored the relationship between dog breed and the risks of bite occurrence and severity. The bite risk was established by a literature review from 1970 to the present that reported on the occurrence of bites by breed. A minimum of 40 reported bite attacks was the established minimum to be included in the study as a biting breed, and 43 breeds met the minimum criteria.

In order to establish bite severity by breed, the researchers at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center reviewed 15 years of dog bite cases for 240 patients that were seen at the Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio and the University of Virginia Health System. They determined the severity of bites by examining the wound size, tissue damage, bone fractures, and other harm that necessitated a reconstructive surgeon.

Dog Bite Study Results

According to the results of the study, the “unknown” breed of dog has the greatest bite occurrence and severity. However, once the unknown is eliminated, the following breeds were known to bite people the most:
 

• Pit bulls
• Mixed breeds
• German shepherds
• Terriers
• Rottweilers

On the opposite end of the spectrum, the dog breeds least likely to bite were dalmatians, pointers, Great Danes, Pekingese, and spitz dogs.

In terms of bite severity, the researchers found that weight and head shape played roles in the amount of damage caused by an attack. Dogs with short, wide heads that weighed between 66 and one hundred pounds were most likely to bite a person. The study also pointed out that the animal’s behavior tendencies as well as the behavior tendencies of the victim and dog owner also play a role in dog bite attacks. If you know someone who has been attacked by a dog in the Atlanta area, it is critical that you speak with an experienced personal injury attorney right away.

Contact Our Office Now

If you would like to speak with an expert in dog bite lawsuits, call the office or contact us at the office of Jonathan R. Brockman, P.C. in Atlanta today to schedule a free case evaluation of your claims.