Dangerous dog laws, including the dog bite law, vary from state to state, with different definitions and outcomes for owners.
In Utah, the dangerous dog laws are primarily governed by the Utah Code, specifically under Title 18, Chapter 1. According to Utah law, a dangerous dog is one that has caused injury to a person, domestic animal, or has engaged in behavior that requires a defensive action by a person on two or more occasions within a 12-month period. Owners of dangerous dogs are required to take specific precautions, such as keeping the dog in a secure enclosure and posting warning signs. Additionally, the dog must be registered as a dangerous dog with local animal control. Utah's dog bite law follows a strict liability approach, meaning that a dog owner can be held liable if their dog bites someone, regardless of whether the owner knew the dog had the propensity to bite. This liability is not absolute, however; it does not apply if the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or if the dog was performing military or police work. It's important for dog owners in Utah to understand these laws to ensure compliance and to understand their potential liability in the event of a dog bite or attack.