Dog bites aren’t just physical injuries.
They’re painful, traumatic, and expensive.

One moment you’re walking your dog or visiting a friend’s house in Austin…
The next, you’re dealing with puncture wounds, screaming kids, ER visits, and wondering:
Who’s going to pay for this?

If you’re searching for answers after a dog attack in Texas—especially in Austin—you’re in the right place.
This guide breaks it all down in plain English. No legal jargon. No fluff. Just clear answers and next steps.

The Reality of Dog Bites in Texas

Texas doesn’t play around when it comes to personal injury laws.
But here’s the truth most people don’t realize:

Dog bite laws in Texas are not cut-and-dry.

You don’t automatically get compensation just because a dog bit you.
You have to prove that the dog owner was negligent or knew the dog was dangerous.
And if you’re in Austin, local leash laws and city ordinances matter too.

Let’s walk through what that actually means for you as a victim or family member.

Texas Dog Bite Law: The “One-Bite Rule”

Texas follows a rule often called the “one-bite rule.”
But it’s not what people think.

It doesn’t mean every dog gets one “free” attack.
It means:
A dog owner is only strictly liable if they knew the dog had dangerous tendencies—like biting someone before.

That means if the dog has a history of aggression, the owner can be automatically held responsible.
But if the dog has no past attacks and the owner wasn’t negligent?
You’ve got a steeper hill to climb.

When Negligence Becomes the Real Issue

Even if the “one-bite rule” doesn’t apply, you might still have a case.
Why? Because of negligence.

Let’s say a dog has never bitten anyone, but:

• The owner let it roam unleashed in a public park
  
• They ignored warning signs like growling, lunging, or previous close calls
  
• The dog escaped a damaged fence the owner never fixed
  

That’s negligence, plain and simple.
And under Texas law, negligent behavior that leads to injury = liability.

At Kelley Wolff Injury Attorneys, we know how to prove when carelessness caused serious harm.

Austin Dog Laws That Can Strengthen Your Case

If you live in Austin, you’re protected by city-specific ordinances on top of Texas state law.

Some key ones:

• Leash Law – All dogs must be on a leash in public unless in a designated off-leash area
  
• Dangerous Dog Reporting – Animal Services keeps records of dogs involved in previous attacks
  
• Secure Fencing Requirements – Owners must keep potentially dangerous dogs in secure enclosures
  

Violating any of these can lead to fines—and more importantly, legal liability when someone gets hurt.

You can read more about local dog bite enforcement in our Austin Dog Bite Legal Services page.

Common Scenarios That Lead to Claims

Not all dog bites happen on the street.
Many happen in places people thought were safe:

• At a friend or neighbor’s house
  
• At a public park or trail
  
• In a rental property where the landlord failed to act
  
• During a delivery or work-related visit to someone’s home
  

In every one of these situations, context matters.

Were you invited in? Were there warning signs? Was the dog leashed?

You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Our team at Kelley Wolff Injury Attorneys can investigate every angle.

What Dog Bite Victims in Austin Can Recover

You might think “just a bite” isn’t worth much.
But dog attacks are serious—especially for kids or seniors.

Injury victims can often claim:

• Emergency medical costs – Ambulance, ER, stitches, rabies shots
  
• Ongoing treatment – Plastic surgery, therapy, rehab
  
• Lost wages – Time off for recovery
  
• Disfigurement and scarring – Which can raise the value of your claim
  
• Emotional distress – Including PTSD, anxiety, and sleep disorders
  
• Pain and suffering – Especially for young victims or facial wounds
  

Dog attacks can leave people emotionally shaken for years.
The law in Texas allows you to recover for both physical and emotional harm.

Want to know what your case might be worth?
Request a Free Consultation Today

Proving a Dog Bite Case in Texas

Winning a dog bite claim isn’t automatic.
You need evidence. And fast.

Here’s what helps build a strong case:

1. Photos & Videos

Take clear shots of the injuries immediately after the bite.
If possible, get photos of the dog and the scene too.

2. Witness Statements

Anyone who saw what happened can help back up your claim.
Names, contact info—don’t leave without it.

3. Medical Records

Go to the doctor ASAP. Waiting gives the insurance company room to argue your injuries weren’t serious.

4. Animal Control Report

Call Austin Animal Services. Their report can confirm prior attacks or violations.

5. Previous Complaints

If the dog has a history, we’ll find it.
Our firm investigates dog owner histories to prove prior knowledge.

This is the kind of hands-on legal work we pride ourselves on at Kelley Wolff Injury Attorneys.

Why It’s Worth Talking to a Dog Bite Lawyer in Austin

We get it. Some people hesitate. They don’t want to “sue their neighbor” or “make a big deal out of it.”

But here’s the thing:

You’re not just going after the dog owner—you’re usually filing a claim against their homeowner’s insurance.

And when the medical bills pile up or your child’s left with a scar?
You’ll be glad you took action.

Here’s how Kelly Wolff Injury Attorneys makes a difference:

• We know how to use Austin ordinances to your advantage
  
• We deal with the insurance company, so you don’t have to
  
• We gather proof while it’s fresh and file paperwork on time
  
• We’re based right here in Austin—we know the courts, the laws, and the local game
  

Ready to talk? Book your FREE consultation here.
It costs nothing upfront to get answers—and it could be the smartest move you make.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Dog Bite Define Your Future

Dog bites are scary.
They mess with your head.
They disrupt your life.

But you’re not powerless.

Whether you were bitten at a dog park, on a neighbor’s porch, or while delivering packages—you have rights.

At Kelley Wolff Injury Attorneys, we’ve seen how life-changing one bite can be.
And we’re here to help victims fight back, recover, and move forward.

If you or someone you love has been attacked by a dog in Austin, don’t wait.

Call (512)-470-6068 or book a FREE consultation today.
We fight. You heal.

FAQs

What is the “one-bite rule” in Texas?

It means a dog owner is liable if they knew or should have known their dog was dangerous.

Can I sue if the dog bit me in a public place?

Yes. Especially if the dog wasn’t leashed or the owner acted carelessly.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Texas?

You have 2 years from the date of the bite.

What if the dog never bit anyone before?

You may still have a case if you can prove negligence.

Do dog bite claims usually settle or go to court?

Most settle out of court—but only if your lawyer builds a strong case early.

Kelley Wolff Injury Attorneys
17800 Hamilton Pool Road, Suite 203, Austin, TX 78738
(512)-470-6068
Proven Results. Personalized Service. Relentless Advocacy.