Dangerous dog laws, including the dog bite law, vary from state to state, with different definitions and outcomes for owners.
In Ohio, dangerous dog laws are outlined in Ohio Revised Code Section 955.11 and 955.22, among others. A 'dangerous dog' is defined as one that, without provocation, has caused injury to a person or killed another dog. A 'vicious dog' is one that, without provocation, has killed or caused serious injury to a person. Ohio law requires owners of dangerous or vicious dogs to register them with their local county auditor, securely confine them on their property, and leash and muzzle them if taking them off the property. Owners must also obtain liability insurance or surety bonds to cover potential damages caused by their dogs. Regarding dog bites, Ohio operates under a strict liability statute, meaning that the owner of a dog is liable for any injury, death, or loss to person or property that is caused by the dog, without the need to prove negligence or intent. This applies unless the victim was trespassing, committing a crime, or provoking the dog.