NY · Mixed
New York dog bite law
New York is not a strict-liability bite state for money damages. You usually prove the owner knew, or should have known, the dog had vicious propensities — which is more than “the dog exists.”
- Liability
- One-bite for civil damages; dangerous-dog statute
- Statute
- N.Y. Agriculture & Markets Law (dangerous dog); common law for bites
- Deadline to file
- 3 years · N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 214(5)
- Bites only?
- Injuries more broadly
Growling, snapping, prior bites, and “we keep him in the back” testimony are how New York cases are built. Leash violations in NYC support negligence.
Three years under CPLR 214(5). Housing Authority, co-op, and landlord cases are common when the building knew.
Exceptions insurers will mention
Civil recovery generally requires knowledge of vicious propensities. A dog can also be adjudicated dangerous in a separate proceeding.
Vicious propensities, not a first free bite
“One-bite” is a nickname. New York does not give every dog one free mauling. If the owner had notice of aggression, the first serious injury can still be their problem.
Compare the national split in strict liability vs one-bite, and confirm your clock on statute of limitations.
Similar liability rules
This page is general information, not legal advice, and is not a substitute for a lawyer licensed in your state. Statutes change. Confirm the current rule and your deadline with counsel before you rely on a date.