Idaho Dog Bite Laws

Idaho’s dog bite statute, Idaho Code § 25-2810, imposes strict liability upon dog owners. This means that an owner can be held strictly liable for injuries and losses caused by their dog, regardless of whether they knew that the dog could be dangerous to others. The statute specifically states that it is not necessary to show that an owner knew that the dog was dangerous. Victims in Idaho can recover for injuries sustained from not only bites, but also from dog attacks more generally. However, there are exceptions that shield the owner from liability, including situations where: (1) the victim was provoking the dog, (2) the victim was trespassing, (3) the dog was protecting its offspring or a person who was being assaulted, (4) the dog was a service animal protecting the owner, or (5) the victim was trying to break up a fight between two dogs. Under these circumstances, a victim’s recovery may be barred altogether, or reduced based upon the degree to which their own conduct contributed to their injuries.