Arizona Dog Bite Laws

Arizona’s dog bite statute, Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 11-1025, imposes strict liability upon dog owners for dog bite injuries. Under a strict liability theory, the victim must prove only that they were bitten while in public place or lawfully on private property, including the property of the owner. They are not required to prove that the owner was somehow negligent or knew their dog could be dangerous. However, dog owners may not be held liable if they can prove that the victim provoked the dog prior to the bite. Additionally, a different Arizona statute provides that a dog owner is liable for any personal injuries or property damages caused by their dog if the dog was “at large.”