4 Important Facts About Dog Bite Laws in Texas
                     4 IMPORTANT 
FACTS ABOUT 
DOG BITE LAWS IN 
TEXAS
TEXAS FOLLOWS THE “ONE BITE RULE”
Texas does not have a specific dog bite statute like some other states. Instead, it 
follows the "One Bite Rule," which means a dog owner may only be held strictly 
liable if they knew the dog had bitten someone before or had shown aggressive 
tendencies. Essentially, the owner gets one "free" bite before they can be held 
liable, but only if it can be proven they were aware of the danger.
NEGLIGENCE CAN STILL LEAD TO LIABILITY
Even if the dog has never bitten anyone before, a victim may still sue the dog 
owner for negligence. For example, if the owner failed to leash their dog in a public 
area or allowed it to roam freely in violation of local ordinances, they can be held 
responsible for resulting injuries.
CRIMINAL PENALTIES MAY APPLY
Under Texas Health and Safety Code Section 822, criminal charges can apply if:
• A dog attack occurs off the owner’s property.
• The owner was criminally negligent.
• The attack results in serious injury or death.
In such cases, the owner may be charged with a felony, including criminal 
negligence or attack by a dangerous dog.
LOCAL ORDINANCES MAY IMPOSE STRICTER 
RULES
Cities and counties in Texas can create their own regulations regarding dangerous 
dogs, leash laws, and public safety. These local laws may impose stricter rules 
than state law, including fines, required registration for dangerous dogs, or 
mandatory muzzling in public.
ABOUT CHELSIE KING GARZA, P.C.
Injured by a dog in Texas? Trust Chelsie King Garza, P.C. for dedicated legal 
support. This experienced Texas dog bite lawyer fights for your rights and pursues 
maximum compensation with compassion, knowledge, and a proven track record 
of success.
CONCLUSION
Dog bite laws in Texas are a mix of state legal precedents and local regulations. 
While the “One Bite Rule” provides some protection to dog owners initially, 
negligence and criminal conduct can still lead to serious consequences. 
Understanding your responsibilities—and your rights—is crucial whether you're a 
dog owner or a bite victim.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Email - [email protected]
Phone - 713-893-8808
Address - 3663 N. Sam Houston Parkway E. #200 Houston, Texas 77032
Website - https://chelsiegarzalaw.com