The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm | March 17, 2026 | Dog Bites
Certain dog breeds are often cited in dog bite statistics more frequently than others. While any dog has the potential to bite, some breeds appear more often in reported attacks. Additionally, the injuries caused by some of these dog bites can be devastating.
Keep reading below to learn more about the dog breeds that are commonly associated with serious bite incidents.
Which Dog Breeds Are Most Likely to Bite?
Not only can dog bites leave severe scarring and disfigurement, but some attacks can be deadly. In fact, 523 people were killed by dog bites across the country from 2005 to 2019. Most of these fatalities were caused by just a handful of dog breeds.
Pit Bulls
Pit bulls are frequently referenced in dog bite studies and statistics related to severe attacks. Reports often note that once a pit bull bites, it can be difficult for the victim to break free. In 2019, pit bulls were responsible for 68% of fatal dog attacks.
Some cities and municipalities have restrictions on the ability to own and keep pit bulls because of their potentially dangerous nature.
Mixed Breed
Many dog bites occur from mixed-breed varieties. 12% of fatal dog attacks in the United States in 2019 were the result of mixed-breed bites or attacks. These mixed breeds are often a combination of two or more breeds, and it can sometimes be difficult to identify all the breeds that may be present in these animals.
Rottweiler
The size and strength of a rottweiler often cause their bites to be extremely serious. Their bites can have more than 320 psi of force behind them, and rottweilers are responsible for more than 10 deaths each year on average.
German Shepherd
Another large breed, German Shepherds have substantial bite force, and their bites often result in catastrophic injuries. These animals consistently rank in the Top 5 of breeds that are most likely to bite and cause injuries.
Mastiffs
Mastiffs are a very large breed, and they can have a bite force of more than 550 psi. This type of force can leave victims in excruciating pain and dealing with injuries that have permanent effects. Mastiffs usually rank right behind Rottweilers and German Shepherds when it comes to the number of bite injuries they cause.
Tips for Avoiding a Dog Bite
While dog bites are sometimes unpredictable, there are some things you can do to lessen your chances of being bitten. You should:
- Never approach or pet an unfamiliar dog without asking the owner for permission
- Avoid loud noises and sudden movements
- Do not provoke the dog
Children are especially susceptible to dog bites. This could be partly because children may scream in excitement or move suddenly while interacting with a dog. Dogs may instinctively bite out of fear. Always be extremely cautious and protective when your child is around a dog.
Who Is Responsible for My Injuries After a Dog Bite?
Dog owners may be held financially responsible for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more after a dog bite accident. Virginia law generally requires proof that the dog owner knew or should have known that the dog had dangerous tendencies, which is sometimes referred to as a modified “one bite rule.”
However, even if a dog has never bitten someone before, an owner may still be held responsible if negligence contributed to the attack. For instance, failure to follow local leash laws may be considered negligent behavior.
Contact The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm To Schedule a Free Consultation With a Manassas Dog Bite Lawyer
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in Virginia, experienced legal help can make a major difference in your case’s outcome. Please contact our experienced Dog Bite attorneys at The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm to schedule a free consultation today. We have two convenient locations in Manassas, VA and Fairfax, VA.
The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm Manassas
9208 Lee Ave, First Floor, Manassas, VA, 20110
(571) 229-1800
Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Manassas
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 38.7523907,-77.5566859
The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm Fairfax
4000 Legato Rd #1100, Fairfax, VA, 22033
(571) 200-5424
Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Fairfax
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 38.8657713,-77.3652474
