How Many Pitbull Attacks Per Year 

Pitbull attacks pose serious risks of injury and death due to the breed’s strength, powerful bite force, and tenacity. Between 2013 and 2022, Pit Bulls were involved in the highest number of reported dog bite incidents in the US. In neighborhoods where aggressive dogs aren’t properly restrained, the risk of unprovoked pitbull attacks increases, emphasizing the importance of responsible ownership and safety measures.

When provoked or improperly trained, pitbulls may inflict severe injuries, including deep puncture wounds, fractures, nerve damage, and even fatal outcomes in some cases. The emotional trauma from such attacks can be just as devastating as the physical injuries, leaving victims to grapple with fear, anxiety, and long-term psychological scars. Victims injured in pitbull attacks should get legal representation from a proven dog bite attorney to pursue maximum compensation.

Pitbull Attack Statistics

A high rate of annual pitbull incidents has long been a subject of concern due to the breed’s involvement in a large number of severe and fatal dog bite incidents. Statistical analyses reveal the heightened risks associated with pitbull-related injuries, emphasizing the need to recognize these risks and advocate for safety measures. Here’s an overview of key statistics highlighting the impact of pitbull attacks.

• Fatality Estimates Up to 2024: Pitbulls are projected to have mauled 512 Americans to death from 1998 to 2024. After 1998, the CDC stopped collecting breed-specific fatality data, but estimates show 590 deaths since 1980.
• High Risk of Unprovoked Attacks: A 10-year study revealed that pitbulls were responsible for one of the highest numbers of unprovoked attacks among all dog breeds, with 89.8% of their bites occurring without any provocation.
• High Probability of Severe Wounds: The likelihood of a bite causing a complex wound is 4.4 times greater for pit bulls compared to other leading biting breeds. Additionally, the odds of an off-property attack by a pit bull are 2.7 times higher.
• Impact on Pediatric Patients: Among children up to age 18, pit bulls were the most commonly identified breed in dog bite cases, with major injuries often reported. Parental presence was noted in 43.6% of incidents involving pediatric patients.
• Surgical Interventions: One-third of injuries caused by pit bulls required medical consultation, with a relative surgical intervention rate five times higher than other breeds.
• Attacking Unknown Individuals: Unlike other breeds, pit bulls are 31% more likely to attack unknown individuals and 48% more likely to attack without provocation.
• Family Dog Involvement: In 53% of cases, the attacking dog was familiar to the victim, often belonging to the family. Among such incidents, pit bulls were the primary culprits.
• Morbidity, Costs, and Fatalities: Pit bull attacks are linked to higher morbidity rates, increased hospital charges, and a greater risk of death compared to attacks by other breeds.
• 2019 Fatalities: In 2019, pit bulls were responsible for fatalities across all age groups, while other breeds primarily caused deaths among children under 2 years and adults over 50 years.
• Fatal Attacks (2005–2019): During this period, pit bulls killed 346 Americans, a rate 6.5 times higher than the next most fatal breed, rottweilers, which caused 51 deaths.
• Infant Deaths (2005–2019): Between 2005 and 2019, pit bulls caused nearly half (48%) of the 64 fatal attacks on infants under 1 year old.
• Owner-Directed Attacks: Of 74 attacks where a dog killed its primary owner between 2005 and 2019, pit bulls were responsible for 62% (46 cases), over 11 times more than any other breed.
• Family Fatalities: From 2005 to 2019, family dogs caused 54% of all fatal attacks, with pit bulls responsible for 65%. Of the 346 fatal pit bull attacks, 53% involved killing a family or household member.
• Criminal Charges: Only 20% of dog bite fatalities led to criminal charges from 2005 to 2019. Pit bulls were implicated in 76% of these cases.
• Female Victims: Between 2015 and 2018, 53.8% of victims killed by pit bulls were female, marking a 39% rise from 38.8% during 2005 to 2009.
• Unfamiliar Dog Attacks: When the attacking dog was unfamiliar to the victim, pit bulls were responsible for 60% of all injuries and 63% of eye-related injuries.
• Group Attacks: From 2005 to 2017, there were 97 fatal attacks involving three or more dogs. Death occurred 16 times more frequently when two or more pit bulls were involved compared to cases with just one pit bull.

General Dog Bite Statistics

• Daily Emergency Department Visits: Each day, almost 1,000 individuals seek treatment in hospital emergency departments for nonfatal dog bite-related injuries.
• Reconstructive Surgeries: In 2018, approximately 27,000 people underwent reconstructive surgery due to dog bite injuries.
• Annual Dog Bite Incidents: Around 4.5 million dog bites occur in the United States every year. Of these, nearly 1 in 5 bites results in an infection.
• Hospitalization Increase: Between 1993 and 2008, there was an 86% rise in dog bite-related hospital stays across the United States.
• Rural vs. Urban Dog Bite Cases: In 2008, rural areas experienced four times as many dog bite-related emergency department visits and three times as many hospital stays compared to urban areas.
• Hospital Stay Costs: The average cost of a hospital stay due to a dog bite was $18,200—approximately 50% higher than the average cost of hospital stays for other injuries.

Pit Bull Attack Fatalities in 2024: Real-Life Incidents

October 9, 2024

• Victim: James Provost, 59, Male
• Dog: Pitbull mix (8-9 dogs)
• Location: Schenectady County, Albany County, New York

James Provost was fatally attacked by a pack of dogs in a backyard near the dog owner’s property. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities seized nine adult dogs and 15 puppies, which were taken to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society. 

Source: NBC News 

October 7, 2024

• Victim: Jiryiah Johnson, 1, Male
• Dog: Pit bulls (3 dogs)
• Location: Bexar County, Texas

At a babysitter’s home, a one-year-old boy was fatally mauled by pit bulls. Although the child was in a bedroom under the care of the babysitter’s 13-year-old daughter and separated from the dogs, the animals forced their way into the room and attacked him. The child succumbed to his injuries at the hospital hours later. The dogs were seized and euthanized, and the babysitter was indicted on felony charges by a grand jury.

Source: Kens5

September 4, 2024

• Victim: Zoey Hawkins, 4, Female
• Dog: Pitbull
• Location: Tulare County, Visalia, California

A family’s pit bull attacked and killed a four-year-old girl shortly after she finished swimming. The incident occurred inside their home. Police were called to the scene, and the girl was transported to the hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.

Source: ABC30

September 3, 2024

• Victim: Undisclosed, 18-month-old Female
• Dog: Pitbull (1-2 dogs)
• Location: Essex County, Newark, New Jersey

An 18-month-old girl died after being attacked by at least one of the family’s dogs. The incident occurred inside the home, which had a “Beware of Dog” sign outside. The child, who was under the care of a teenager at the time, was rushed to University Hospital but could not be saved.

Source: CBS News

August 3, 2024

• Victim: Undisclosed, 3-month-old Male
• Dog: Pit bulls (2 dogs)
• Location: Monroe County, Rochester, New York

A three-month-old baby was attacked and fatally injured by two pit bulls inside a Rochester home. Emergency responders transported the baby to Strong Memorial Hospital, where he died. Animal control removed the dogs, which were slated for euthanasia following the investigation.

Source: AP News

July 19, 2024

• Victim: Covil Lee Allen, 3, Male
• Dog: Pit bulls (2 dogs)
• Location: Brooklyn Park, Minnesota

While visiting a home with his family to purchase dogs, three-year-old Covil Lee Allen was attacked by two pit bulls. Several adults attempted to stop the attack using pickaxes and hammers, and police eventually shot both dogs. Despite these efforts, Covil succumbed to his injuries and passed away on July 29.

Source: AP News

March 9, 2024

• Victim: Daymon Balbuena, 3-month-old Male
• Dog: Pitbull (1 dog)
• Location: Woodbridge Township, New Jersey

A three-month-old baby boy was fatally attacked by the family’s pit bull during the early hours at home. The infant died at the scene, and his mother suffered severe dog bites, including cuts to her face, arms, and legs. She was hospitalized and later released. The father also sustained injuries and received medical treatment. The dog was euthanized after the attack.

Source: USA Today

Research Shows the Highest Risk of Complex Wounds from Pitbull Dog Bites 

A 10-year retrospective review (2009–2018) of 182 patients treated for facial and related injuries caused by dog bites revealed that pit bulls caused more severe injuries compared to other breeds. The study is part of ongoing research by Level 1 Trauma Center Studies focusing on dog bite injuries.

Study Highlights:

• Study Design: The review included patients treated by the maxillofacial surgery department. Criteria considered included age, gender, provocation, relationship to the dog, vaccination status, type of injuries, and more.
• Patient Demographics:
  • 182 patients met the study criteria.
  • Injuries were more severe in younger children.
  • Females were bitten more frequently (53% of girls aged ≤10 and 65% of females aged ≥11).
• Pit Bull Findings:
  • Pit bulls inflicted 83.7% complex wounds (≥5 cm), the highest among all breeds studied.
  • They caused fractures in 36.8% of cases and mauling injuries in 24% of incidents.
  • The probability of a bite leading to a complex wound was 4.4 times higher for pit bulls compared to other top-biting breeds (e.g., German shepherds, rottweilers, huskies).
• Unprovoked Attacks:
  • 89.8% of pit bull bites were unprovoked, a significant distinction compared to most other breeds.
  • Bulldogs and huskies also had higher rates of unprovoked bites.
  • Pit bulls were 2.7 times more likely to attack off-property compared to other breeds.
• Rabies Vaccination Rates:
  • Most dogs involved in attacks were vaccinated, but pit bulls had the lowest vaccination rate (63.3%) compared to other top-biting breeds (95.6%) and all other dogs combined (87.5%).
  • Among 31 total unvaccinated dogs, pit bulls accounted for 58% of these cases.
• Provocation and Safety Recommendations:
  • The study highlighted the danger posed by certain breeds—especially pitbulls—when interacting with vulnerable populations such as young children.
  • The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends never leaving small children alone with dogs, and for some breeds, additional precautions should be considered.

This study highlights the severe risks associated with certain breeds in the dog population, particularly pit bulls, regarding complex injuries and unprovoked attacks. Enhanced safety measures, such as improved supervision and proactive barriers, are recommended to prevent violent interactions between a dangerous dog and vulnerable individuals, especially children.

Pitbull Attacks Compared to Other Breeds in the US

Pitbulls, which encompass breeds like the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier, are frequently associated with severe attacks. Though exact statistics are difficult to pinpoint due to inconsistent reporting standards across states and municipalities, pitbulls are often cited as the breed responsible for a disproportionate number of fatal and severe attacks.

According to various studies, pitbulls are involved in a number of fatal dog attacks. The CDC, which stopped tracking breed-specific data in 1998, reported that pitbulls were involved in the highest number of fatal dog attacks between 1990 and 2000. Although other factors such as breed identification inconsistencies affect these numbers, it’s evident that pitbulls contribute a large proportion of severe attacks in comparison to other dog breeds.

Frequency of Pitbull Attacks vs. Other Breeds

Recent studies and reports from organizations like the Dog Bite Law and the National Canine Research Council show that pitbulls are responsible for more fatal dog attacks than any other breed. In fact, pitbulls are often ranked as the number one breed for fatal attacks in the U.S.

• Pitbulls: These dogs consistently rank among the top dog breeds responsible for serious and fatal attacks. In 2023 alone, pitbulls were involved in 66% of fatal dog bite incidents.
• Rottweilers: Although Rottweilers are typically viewed as aggressive, they’re less frequently involved in fatal attacks compared to pitbulls. Studies suggest Rottweilers are responsible for around 10% of fatal dog attacks.
• German Shepherds: Another breed often associated with aggressive behavior, German Shepherds contribute to a smaller portion of attacks, with reports indicating involvement in approximately 5% to 7% of fatal attacks.
• Other Breeds: Breeds like Huskies, Doberman Pinschers, and Boxers also figure into dog bite statistics, but they’re less frequent than pitbulls in fatal or severe attacks.

Severity of Pitbull Attacks Compared to Other Breeds

One of the most significant factors differentiating pitbull attacks from those of other breeds is the severity of the injuries sustained. Pitbulls are known for their strength, jaw power, and tenacity, which makes their attacks more likely to result in serious injuries.

• Fatalities: Pitbulls are responsible for a larger percentage of fatal dog attacks compared to other breeds. Their ability to cause fatal injuries is often due to their biting technique, which involves locking their jaws and holding onto their prey, leading to deeper wounds and more damage.
• Injuries: Beyond fatalities, pitbull attacks are more likely to result in life-altering injuries, such as deep puncture wounds, disfigurement, broken bones, and organ damage. In contrast, attacks by smaller or less aggressive breeds may result in less severe injuries, with bites that may not require hospitalization.
• Attacks on Children: Pitbulls are frequently involved in attacks on children, which can be particularly devastating. The strength of pitbulls combined with their tendency to target the face, neck, and limbs leads to injuries in young victims. Studies show that children under 10 years old are more likely to be the victims of pitbull attacks compared to other breeds.

Factors Contributing to the Severity of Pitbull Attacks

Several factors contribute to the increased severity of pitbull attacks and dog bite-related fatalities and injuries compared to other breeds as well as mixed breed dogs:

• Jaw Strength: Pitbulls have an extremely powerful bite force, with some estimates placing it at over 1,000 psi (pounds per square inch). When dog attacks occur, this force allows them to inflict deep, destructive wounds that are more likely to result in severe injury or death.
• Tendency to Lock Jaws: While the myth of “locking jaws” isn’t scientifically proven, pitbulls are known for holding onto their prey longer than other breeds. This behavior can exacerbate the damage they inflict before being able to release their grip.
• Temperament and Socialization: Although pitbulls can be loving and loyal pets when properly raised, they’re often seen as more aggressive compared to other breeds if not properly trained or socialized. The breed has a history of being used in illegal dog fighting, which may contribute to aggressive tendencies. Pitbulls can also exhibit territorial or protective behavior, leading to sudden attacks if they perceive a threat.
• Owner Responsibility: The behavior of any dog, including pitbulls, often correlates with its upbringing and the behavior of its owner. Irresponsible ownership, such as neglect, abuse, or improper training, can increase the likelihood of aggressive behavior. Unfortunately, pitbulls are sometimes bred and trained for aggression, contributing to their higher attack rates.

Public Perception and Legislation Regarding Pitbull Attacks

The frequency and severity of pitbull attacks have led to a polarized debate about breed-specific legislation (BSL) and the overall public perception of pitbulls.

• Breed-Specific Legislation (BSL): Some places have enacted breed-specific dog bite laws for pitbulls due to their association with fatal and severe attacks. These laws may include dangerous breed bans, mandatory muzzling, and restrictions on ownership. However, such laws have faced criticism from animal rights groups, veterinarians, and pitbull owners. Critics argue that behavior is more related to training and socialization.
• Public Fear and Misconceptions: Pitbulls suffer from a negative public image due to media coverage of high-profile attacks. While it’s true that pitbulls are involved in a larger percentage of attacks, it’s important to note that not all pitbulls are aggressive. Many incidents occur due to irresponsible pit bull owners and lack of proper training, rather than inherent breed traits.

Steps You Should Take After a Pit Bull Attack

Being the victim of a pit bull attack can be a traumatic experience, both physically and emotionally. The steps you take immediately following the incident can play a crucial role in your recovery and in strengthening your potential legal claim. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do if you or a loved one is injured by a pit bull.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

• Visit a doctor or go to the emergency room: Even if the wounds seem superficial, getting checked by a medical professional ensures that any potential complications, like infections or nerve damage, are treated promptly.
• Document your injuries: Medical records will serve as vital evidence in any legal claims. Be sure to take note of the extent of your injuries, treatments, and follow-up visits.

Identify the Dog and the Owner

Gather as much information about the dog and its owner as possible. This includes:

• The dog’s breed: If it’s a pit bull or any other breed, this information will be crucial for your legal claim.
• The dog’s history: If the dog has a history of aggression or attacks, it strengthens your case that the owner was negligent.
• The owner’s contact information: Knowing who owns the dog is vital, as they may be held responsible for the attack and any resulting injuries.

Take Photos of the Injuries and Scene

Documenting the attack with photos can strengthen your case. Take clear and detailed photos of:

• Injuries: Photograph all injuries, including bite marks, bruises, and cuts.
• The scene: If possible, take pictures of the location where the attack occurred. Include any relevant details such as the dog’s enclosure (if applicable) and the area where the attack happened.

Report the Incident to Local Authorities

• File an official report: Ensure that animal control or the police file a report of the attack. The report can help verify the details of the attack, which may be used in any legal proceedings.
• Get a copy of the report: Request a copy of the report for your records. This will provide important information such as the dog’s ownership details and any prior incidents.

Contact an Experienced Dog Bite Lawyer

An experienced pit bull dog attack lawyer with a deep knowledge of dog bite laws can help you in the following ways:

• Explain your legal rights: They will evaluate your case and advise you on whether you’re entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and lost wages.
• Investigate the incident: An attorney can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with medical experts in case of injuries involving pitbull dogs to build a solid case for compensation.
• Negotiate with insurance companies: Insurance companies may try to undervalue dog bite claims. Having aggressive legal representation ensures you get the settlement you’re entitled to.

Why You Should Have Our Experienced Pit Bull Attack Attorneys on Your Side

When dealing with the aftermath of a pit bull attack, the complexity of the case requires a skilled legal team with the expertise to navigate the challenges ahead. 

At Dogbitelaws.com, our dog bite lawyer team brings decades of collective experience, a proven trial record, and a commitment to providing compassionate, personalized representation to victims of dog bites, including pit bull attacks. Here’s why you should trust us to help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Proving Liability in Pit Bull Attack Cases Can Be Complicated

Pit bull attack cases often involve intricate legal and factual issues that require in-depth knowledge of local and state laws, as well as a detailed understanding of the dog’s behavior. In many states, dog bite laws are complex, involving questions about negligence, strict liability, or dangerous animal statutes.

As experienced pit bull attack attorneys, we bring a unique perspective to each case, gained from decades of handling dog bite injuries. This insight allows us to evaluate the facts from multiple angles and identify the best approach to prove liability, whether through the dog owner’s negligence, violation of local laws, or demonstrating the animal’s known dangerous behavior. 

Our legal acumen helps ensure that we build a solid case that can withstand the scrutiny of the courts.

Evidence May Quickly Disappear or Get Distorted

In any dog bite case, securing evidence is crucial. However, in pit bull attack cases, evidence may be fleeting or distorted due to the nature of the incident. Pit bull attacks often occur suddenly, and physical evidence such as the dog’s behavior, bite marks, and witness accounts can fade quickly. Additionally, defendants or insurance companies may attempt to manipulate evidence or downplay the severity of the attack.

At Dogbitelaws.com, we act quickly to investigate, collect, and preserve critical evidence. This can include:

• Photographs: Taking detailed pictures of injuries, the scene of the attack, and any property damage
• Medical Records: Documenting the extent of injuries with medical professionals and specialists
• Witness Testimonies: Gathering statements from witnesses who saw the attack or heard about the dog’s prior aggressive behavior
• Animal Control Reports: Reviewing local animal control records or any history of the dog’s previous attacks or dangerous behavior
• Expert Testimonies: Hiring veterinarians, animal behaviorists, or medical experts to provide insight into the dog’s behavior or the extent of injuries

By acting swiftly and utilizing all available resources, we ensure that crucial evidence is preserved to strengthen your case and help you meet the burden of proof in court.

Insurers in Pitbull Attacks Deny Liability and Undervalue Claims

Insurance companies and defendants may attempt to deny liability or undervalue claims in pit bull attack cases. Their goal is to minimize the payout and avoid responsibility for the damages caused. These companies are well-resourced and deploy aggressive tactics to pressure victims into accepting settlements that are far below what they truly deserve.

At Dogbitelaws.com, we’ve built a reputation for being tough on adversaries. Our track record of trial success demonstrates our willingness to take the fight to the courtroom. We’re not afraid to challenge insurance companies and will not settle for less than what your case warrants. Our attorneys have an extensive trial history, and we pride ourselves on our ability to maximize settlements by using strategic legal arguments and compelling evidence.

Trial Readiness Requires Resources to Level the Playing Field 

When facing a powerful insurance company or well-funded defendants, it’s essential to level the playing field. Trial preparation from day one is critical, and we’re committed to demonstrating resolve and staying ready to present your case before a jury if necessary. Our firm invests in the resources required to provide the best possible representation for you, including:

• Advanced Technology: We use the latest technology to organize evidence, present persuasive arguments, and deliver a compelling case.
• Expert Witnesses: Depending on the complexity of the case, we hire experts—such as medical professionals, animal behaviorists, and accident reconstruction specialists—to offer their professional opinions and support your claim.
• Medical Specialists: In cases involving serious injuries, we work with leading medical professionals to understand the full extent of your injuries and to provide expert testimony on your behalf.

Being prepared for trial ensures that we’re in the best position to secure a favorable outcome for you. At Dogbitelaws.com, we’re committed to providing tireless advocacy, ensuring that the defendant’s legal team is matched by our resources and expertise.

We’re Tough on Adversaries but Compassionate to Clients

Our clients aren’t just case numbers to us—they’re individuals who have suffered harm. We approach every case with the understanding that victims of pit bull attacks are dealing with physical, emotional, and financial difficulties. That’s why we offer compassionate, personalized representation that focuses on your needs, recovery, and well-being.

We’re dedicated to being there for our clients every step of the way, whether through legal advice, emotional support, or guiding you through the often complex legal process. Our attorneys take the time to listen to your story, understand your circumstances, and provide tailored solutions to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

We Only Do Dog Bite Injury Law

At Dogbitelaws.com, we focus exclusively on dog bite injury law, which allows us to stay ahead of the curve in terms of legal knowledge and expertise. By specializing in this area, we can dive deep into every aspect of pit bull attack cases—ranging from liability issues to handling defense tactics effectively. Our deep experience in this niche area gives us a competitive advantage in ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive maximum compensation.

Our mastery of legal arguments, combined with our in-depth understanding of medical issues related to dog bite injuries, positions us to cross-examine expert witnesses with precision and skill during trials. Whether it’s establishing the severity of injuries or proving the dog’s history of aggression, we know how to effectively challenge the defendant’s case.

Our Managing Partner Is a Legal Luminary

As the managing partner of Dogbitelaws.com, Michael Agruss is a highly respected figure in the legal community. With over 8,000 consumer rights cases settled and a formidable track record of settlements and verdicts in personal injury and dog bite claims, Michael has built a reputation for delivering results. His leadership and dedication to his clients have earned him numerous accolades, including:

• Super Lawyers: Selected to Rising Stars (2016–2017) and Super Lawyers (2019–2023)
• Multi-Million-Dollar Advocates Forum Membership
• 1,375+ Outstanding Client Reviews
• Over 575 Five-Star Google Reviews
• A+ BBB Rating

These accomplishments demonstrate Michael’s commitment to achieving the best results for his clients and ensuring we continue to be a trusted name in the field of dog bite litigation.

Nationwide Presence and Ability to Recover Maximum Compensation

Based out of Illinois, our firm is proud to help victims of pit bull attacks across the nation. Our attorneys have successfully represented clients in various states, helping them recover the maximum compensation for their injuries or, in some tragic cases, fatalities. Our extensive nationwide presence allows us to leverage our experience and knowledge of local laws to fight for justice wherever you’re located.

We Work on a Contingency Fee Basis

At Dogbitelaws.com, we understand that many dog bite victims are facing financial burdens due to medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In dog bite injury cases, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us unless we win your case. Our attorneys are motivated to fight for the best possible outcome and hold the negligent dog owners accountable.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a pit bull attack, trust Dogbitelaws.com to provide strong legal representation. We bring years of experience, trial readiness, and a compassionate approach to each case. Our attorneys are here to fight for the highest possible compensation for your injuries and losses. To schedule your free consultation, call 866 K9-BITES (866-592-4837) or contact us online.