Dog Bites and Dog Attacks

Dog bites and animal attacks can be frightening, painful, and life-changing. In just seconds, a playful afternoon walk or a visit to a neighbor’s home can turn into an emergency room visit, surgery, or even long-term scarring. Children, delivery drivers, postal workers, and even other pet owners are among the most common victims of these incidents.

Massachusetts takes dog attacks seriously. Unlike some states that excuse owners unless the dog has bitten before, Massachusetts imposes strict liability on dog owners. That means an owner is almost always responsible for injuries or damage caused by their dog—whether or not they knew the dog was dangerous and whether or not they tried to prevent the attack.

At Rightful Legal, Attorney Tracy Paulsen fights for victims of dog bites in Bristol County, Norfolk County, Boston and across Massachusetts. With more than 15 years of experience, she understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll a dog attack can take. Our mission is to make sure victims don’t have to suffer alone—and to hold negligent dog owners accountable under the law.

Massachusetts Dog Bite Law: Strict Liability

The law governing damage by a dog in Massachusetts (M.G.L. Chapter 140, Section 155) creates one of the strongest protections for victims in the country. It states that:

• Owners are strictly liable for injuries and property damage caused by their dogs.
  
• This rule applies whether or not the owner knew the dog might be dangerous.
  
• Liability applies to bites and non-bite injuries, such as when a dog knocks someone down, scratches them, or causes damage to personal property.
  

For example, if a leashed dog lunges unexpectedly at someone, causing them to fall and break a wrist, the owner is responsible—even if the dog had no prior history of aggression. Massachusetts law does not give an owner a “free pass” just because it’s the dog’s first bite.

This stands in contrast to states that use the “one-bite rule”, where victims must prove that the owner knew the dog was dangerous. Massachusetts deliberately shifts that burden away from victims, recognizing that dog bite injuries are often severe, costly, and traumatic.

Bit by a Dog in Massachusetts? Contact Attorney Tracy Paulsen Today for a Free Case Evaluation

Owners and Keepers: Who Can Be Held Responsible?

The law applies not only to dog owners but also to their “keepers.” A “keeper” is someone who temporarily has custody of and control over a dog. This could include:

• Dog walkers
  
• Veterinarians
  
• Boarding kennels
  
• Friends or relatives caring for the dog
  

In some cases, courts have required plaintiffs to choose between suing an owner or a keeper, but not both, under strict liability (Galvin v. Parker, 154 Mass. 346 (1891); Brown v. Bolduc, 29 Mass. App. Ct. 909 (1990)). However, plaintiffs may still bring negligence claims against additional responsible parties (Nutt v. Florio, 75 Mass. App. Ct. 482 (2009)).

This distinction matters. For example, if a landlord ignores repeated complaints about a tenant’s aggressive dog and allows the animal to roam freely, the victim may have a strict liability claim against the owner and a negligence claim against the landlord. At Rightful Legal, Attorney Paulsen carefully analyzes each case to identify all possible defendants—maximizing your chance of full recovery.

Defenses Dog Owners May Try to Raise

Even though Massachusetts uses strict liability, dog owners and their insurance companies sometimes try to avoid paying by pointing to certain legal defenses. The law does carve out a few exceptions, but they are narrow:

• Trespassing: If the victim was unlawfully on private property at the time of the attack, the owner may argue they are not responsible. However, mail carriers, delivery workers, utility employees, and invited guests are all lawfully present and therefore protected.
  
• Committing a wrongful act: A victim who was in the middle of committing another harmful act, such as vandalism or assault, may not be able to recover.
  
• Provocation: If someone was “teasing, tormenting, or abusing” the dog, the owner may be excused.
  

The law, however, recognizes that children under the age of seven cannot be expected to understand the consequences of their actions. By statute, the court assumes that young children are not trespassing or provoking unless the owner can prove otherwise.

At Rightful Legal, Attorney Tracy Paulsen is prepared for these arguments. Insurance companies often overreach—claiming ordinary behavior, like running past a yard or petting a dog, counts as provocation. We fight back with evidence, expert testimony, and the law itself to make sure victims are not unfairly blamed.

Damages in Massachusetts Dog Bite Cases

The aftermath of a dog bite isn’t just about medical treatment—it can ripple through every part of a victim’s life. Massachusetts law allows recovery for full and fair compensation, which may include:

• Medical costs, past and future: Emergency room visits, stitches, surgery, physical therapy, reconstructive care, and infection treatment.
  
• Lost wages or reduced earning power: Time missed from work or long-term inability to return to the same profession.
  
• Scarring and permanent disfigurement: Visible injuries can affect a person’s confidence, career, and daily life long after the wound heals.
  
• Emotional trauma: Dog attacks are terrifying, especially for children. Victims often develop anxiety, nightmares, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
  
• Property damage: Compensation for belongings damaged during the incident, such as phones, glasses, or clothing.
  

Massachusetts also has a penalty provision for owners of dogs that have already been deemed dangerous. If such a dog injures someone again—or attacks livestock—the owner may be required to pay triple damages (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 140, § 159 (2024)).

At Rightful Legal, we don’t just add up medical bills—we dig into the long-term impact of the injury. That means working with medical experts to project future care, documenting emotional harm through psychologists and family testimony, and showing how the injury affects your ability to work, parent, or simply enjoy life. 

Dog Bite Lawyer Tracy Paulsen has built a career ensuring that victims throughout Bristol County and Massachusetts get every dollar they are entitled to, not just what insurance adjusters want to offer.

Attacked by a Dog in Massachusetts?

Contact Rightful Legal Today to Understand Your Rights and Next Steps at 617-821-5856

Or

Time to File a Lawsuit

Like all personal injury cases, Massachusetts imposes a three-year statute of limitations for dog bite claims. This means you generally have three years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 260, § 2A (2024)).

Acting quickly is important—not only to preserve your legal rights but also to collect evidence such as witness statements, photographs, animal control reports, and veterinary records. At Rightful Legal, we begin building your case immediately to strengthen your claim.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bites in Massachusetts

Do homeowners’ or renters’ insurance policies cover dog bites?
Often, yes. Many policies cover dog bite claims, but exclusions and breed restrictions are common. If insurance is denied, Attorney Paulsen explores other avenues for recovery, such as personal assets or third-party liability.

What if the dog was leashed when it attacked?
Leashes don’t automatically protect owners. Massachusetts law imposes liability even when an owner is being careful. A leash may show that precautions were taken, but it doesn’t erase responsibility when injuries occur.

Can I bring a claim if my child was bitten at a neighbor’s house?
Yes. Massachusetts law protects children, and parents of minor dog owners are financially responsible for their child’s dog. Most claims in these situations are handled through homeowners’ insurance, not out-of-pocket payments, which is something many families find reassuring.

What if I work with animals for a living?
Veterinarians, groomers, kennel workers, and trainers are considered “keepers” under Massachusetts law, which means they can’t sue under strict liability. However, if an owner knew a dog was unusually aggressive and failed to warn you, you may have a negligence claim instead (Salisbury v. Ferioli, 49 Mass. App. Ct. 485 (2000)).

Do I really need a lawyer if liability seems clear?
Yes. Insurance companies often offer quick settlements that cover only a fraction of the damages. A lawyer ensures that medical expenses, long-term care, emotional harm, and future losses are fully accounted for. Attorney Tracy Paulsen has seen firsthand how insurers undervalue claims, and she has the experience to push back.

The Rightful Legal Difference

At Rightful Legal, we don’t just file claims—we stand with victims during one of the most difficult times of their lives. Attorney Tracy Paulsen combines compassion with tenacity, ensuring that every client receives personalized representation.

We understand that dog attacks leave more than physical scars. They can leave families shaken, children traumatized, and victims facing unexpected bills. Our firm is here to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on healing.

With deep knowledge of Massachusetts dog bite law, a proven record in personal injury litigation, and a commitment to justice, Rightful Legal is the firm you want in your corner.

Contact Massachusetts Dog Bite Lawyer Paulsen Today

If you or your child has been bitten or attacked by a dog in Massachusetts, you deserve an advocate who will fight for your rights.

Call Attorney Tracy Paulsen Directly at 617-821-5856 or fill out our online form today for a free, confidential consultation.

Don’t wait. Strict deadlines apply, and evidence is strongest when gathered early. Let Attorney Tracy Paulsen and Rightful Legal help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.