Violent Dog Attack Statistics

In this post, we examine a sobering reality: the impact of dog attacks on individuals across the United States. The statistics paint a clear picture of the prevalence and severity of dog bites, with alarming figures revealing the consequences of these incidents on victims. From the breeds most commonly involved in fatal attacks to the financial and medical burdens associated with dog bites, the data sheds light on a troubling issue that warrants attention and discussion.

Statistic 1

"There were 471,500 victims of dog bites that required medical attention in 2020."

Statistic 2

"Pit bulls contributed to 66% (346) of these deaths in total dog bite related fatalities in the United States from 2005 to 2017."

Statistic 3

"Approximately 28,000 people underwent reconstructive surgery as a result of being bitten by dogs in 2015."

Statistic 4

"More than half of the dog bites on children occur on the face."

Statistic 5

"Out of 6,000 dog attack cases studied, 37% of attacks happened because the victim approached the dog while the owner was absent."

Statistic 6

"Rottweilers were responsible for 10% of all fatal dog attacks in the U.S. between 2005 and 2017."

Statistic 7

"Over 66% of fatalities were caused by family dogs or dogs known to the victim."

Statistic 8

"27,000, or 81%, of dog bites in 2019 resulted in serious injury or harm requiring treatment."

Statistic 9

"There were 5 lethal pit bull maulings in Canada from 1990 to 2007."

Statistic 10

"In the United States, 1.6% of all emergency department visits for trauma in children aged <18 years were related to dog bites."

Statistic 11

"Among children, 77% of all dog bite injuries occur to the face."

Statistic 12

"More than 30 breeds of dogs were identified in fatal dog attacks during an examination from 1979 to 1998."

Statistic 13

"Between 2010 and 2019, U.S. residents suffered more than 433 serious pitbull injuries, requiring more than 6,244 surgeries, at an average cost of $28,000 per hospitalization."

Statistic 14

"Approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year, and about 800,000 of these injuries require medical care."

Statistic 15

"Dog bites occur more frequently among males and people aged 5-9 years."

Statistic 16

"Among adults, men are more likely than women to report ever being bitten by a dog."

Statistic 17

"From 2005 to 2019, there were 521 fatal dog attacks in the United States."

Statistic 18

"Bites from unknown dogs lead to about 16% of the reported bites."

Statistic 19

"Over 30% of homeowner insurance liability claim dollars paid out in 2017 were due to dog bites."

The prevalence of dog attacks and bites in the United States is alarming, with a significant number of victims requiring medical attention, reconstructive surgery, and facing serious injuries. Pit bulls and Rottweilers stand out as breeds commonly involved in fatal attacks, highlighting the importance of awareness and responsible ownership. It is crucial to educate the public on dog behavior and safety measures to prevent such incidents, especially among children who are most vulnerable to these attacks. Additionally, the financial and emotional toll of dog bites cannot be overlooked, as evidenced by the high costs associated with hospitalizations and insurance liability claims. Addressing these statistics with proactive measures can help reduce the incidence of dog-related injuries and fatalities.