# Pennsylvania Dog Bites > Last updated: 2026-11-11 Pennsylvania handles dog bite claims in two parts. First, the dog's owner generally must pay your medical bills. Second, whether you can recover other losses depends on what the owner knew about the dog. Homeowner's insurance companies often push back hardest on that second part. [Marzzacco Injury Law](https://www.klnivenlaw.com/about-our-firm/) helps Pennsylvania families with dog bite claims and works to recover the full compensation they need. What Kinds of Dog Bite Cases Do We Handle? ------------------------------------------ Dog bite cases can look very different from one another. The severity of the injury, where it happened, and the dog's history can all affect what a case is worth. We handle cases involving: - Deep puncture wounds and crushing bites to the hands and arms - Facial injuries and permanent scarring, especially in young children - Infections after a bite, including cellulitis and tissue damage - Attacks by dogs already declared dangerous under state law - Bites inside a neighbor's home or fenced yard - Attacks in parks, on trails, and on sidewalks - Injuries on rental property where the landlord knew about the dog Children are often hurt the most because a dog's head is at the same height as a child's face. Our lawyers work with treating surgeons to estimate the cost of future scar treatment, since a child's cosmetic care can continue for years. How Does Pennsylvania's Dog Bite Law Work? ------------------------------------------ Pennsylvania's Dog Law, [3 P.S. ยง 459-502(b)(1)](https://www.palegis.us/statutes/unconsolidated/law-information/view-statute?SESSYR=1982&SESSIND=0&ACTNUM=225&SMTHLWIND=&CHPT=5A&SCTN=2&SUBSCTN=), is clear on medical costs. The dog's owner or keeper must pay all medical expenses from the attack, even if the dog had never shown aggression before. You don't have to prove the owner was careless to recover these costs. To recover compensation for pain, suffering, and lost income, you usually need to show one of the following: - The owner knew the dog could be dangerous - The owner failed to restrain a dog already classified as dangerous - The owner broke a leash or confinement law Our lawyers can show what the owner knew using prior complaints, attack reports, animal control records, veterinary records, and witness statements. Pennsylvania doesn't strictly follow the "one-bite rule." A prior nip, a warning from a mail carrier, a "Beware of Dog" sign, or complaints to the township can all show that the owner knew the dog could be dangerous. Most dog bite claims are paid through homeowner's or renter's insurance. What Compensation Can Dog Bite Victims Recover? ----------------------------------------------- You may be able to recover much more than the cost of your emergency room visit, including bills that come months later. Compensation can include: - Wound care, surgery, and reconstructive procedures - Rabies and tetanus treatment - Counseling for anxiety and post-traumatic stress - Lost income during your recovery - Ongoing fear of dogs - Permanent scarring and disfigurement - Pain and emotional suffering How Long Do You Have to File a Dog Bite Claim? ---------------------------------------------- In most cases, you must file a lawsuit within two years of the attack. Claims involving a government agency or public housing authority may have earlier deadlines. Our attorneys quickly request township dog complaint records because evidence of a prior incident can make a big difference in the value of your claim. Get Answers About Your Dog Bite Claim Today ------------------------------------------- Marzzacco Injury Law handles dog bite claims across Pennsylvania, and our top-rated, award-winning attorneys have recovered millions of dollars for injured clients. Call (717) 231-1640 or [contact us online](https://www.klnivenlaw.com/contact-us/) for a free case review. Our dog bite lawyers will explain your options before you give the insurance company a recorded statement.