06/05/2026
What Do You Need to Prove to Win a Dog Bite Case?
Winning a dog bite case requires more than just showing you were bitten. Most people believe the dog owner automatically pays. That is not true in Texas.
Texas does not have a strict liability dog bite law. That means getting bitten alone is not enough to win your case. You must prove one of two critical things.
First: the owner already knew their dog was dangerous. Maybe the dog bit someone before. Maybe it lunged at people or acted aggressively. Houston courts look closely at this kind of history when deciding dog bite cases.
Second: the owner was negligent. They let the dog run loose. They failed to use a leash. They did not control the animal in a public space. Negligence is one of the most common ways people win dog bite claims in Texas.
Important: without proving one of those two things, you may not have a case at all. Many people in Houston do not realize this until it is too late.
Here is what you must do right now if a dog bit you:
1: Take photos of all your injuries within 24 hours, including bite marks, bruising, swelling, and torn clothing
2: Find witnesses who saw the attack and collect their names and phone numbers before they forget details
3: Research the dog's history with animal control because a prior bite or aggressive incident can make or break your entire case
4: See a doctor immediately even if the wound looks minor because medical records become critical evidence in court
One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting too long. Warning: evidence disappears fast. Witnesses forget details within days. Injuries heal and become harder to document. Every day you wait makes your case weaker.
You should also know there is a two year statute of limitations on personal injury claims. That clock starts ticking the day you get bitten. Do not let time run out.
After more than 26 years and 3000 cases, we know exactly what it takes to win dog bite cases in Houston.
This is not legal advice.
For the consultation call (713) 226 8800.