Why Do Dogs Attack Children?

Why Are Children at Such a High Risk for Dog Attacks?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 42% of dog bites nationwide involve children under the age of 15. These statistics reveal a staggering concern that children are at a greater risk of being hurt in dog attacks. Often, the most severe injuries are caused by familiar pets.

If you are a parent of young children, it is essential to understand the reasons why kids are more prone to being victims of dog attacks. In this guide, we will explore some of the contributing factors in dog bites affecting children and how you can take steps to educate children about dog attacks. Knowledge is the best way to prevent more of these attacks on children.

Reason 1: Their Small Stature

The average height of a child often places their head, face, and neck area at the same level as a medium or large dog’s mouth. As a result, when the dog attacks, they are more likely to bite these vulnerable spots. For adults, the difference in height typically results in bites on their extremities, such as arms or legs.

Due to a child’s smaller stature, a bite could easily cause severe injuries to the face, which often lead to disfigurement.

Reason 2: Inability to Recognize a Dog’s Warning Signs

Most adults are capable of noticing the warning signs and body language of an anxious, stressed, or fearful dog. These signs may include growling, a stiff body, a tucked tail, or baring their teeth.

On the other hand, children are far less likely to notice these red flags. The child may continue to try to play with the dog or pet them, which can trigger the dog’s behavior to turn aggressive.

Reason 3: A Child’s Actions Can Be Perceived as a Threat

Children are naturally playful, but this can make them unpredictable to dogs. As a result, their sudden movements could be interpreted as aggressive. Children may make sudden movements, scream at a high pitch, or hug a dog too tightly (which can feel like a trap to the dog). Some children may also pull on the dog’s ears or tail while not recognizing the change in the dog’s body language.

All these actions make it difficult to keep dogs calm.

Reason 4: A Lack of Caution Around Unfamiliar Dogs

Many children love seeing dogs while they are out and about. Their first instinct may be to approach an unfamiliar dog and attempt to pet it. They assume that all dogs are friendly, just like their family dog.

However, approaching and touching a strange dog may startle the animal or invade its space, making it defensive. Many dog bites are caused by typically non-aggressive dogs simply becoming uncomfortable around an unpredictable child. This is why reading a dog’s body language can become an important skill in preventing severe bites.

Reason 5: They Cannot Physically Defend Themselves

Children lack the size and strength to defend themselves from a dog attack. Once the aggressive behavior starts, the child may not be able to fend off the dog and protect themselves.

This can lead to more numerous injuries, whereas an adult would typically have the strength to fight off or subdue the dog.

Why Do Dogs Attack Children? Common Behavioral Triggers

A dog’s mindset has the biggest impact on its potential to attack a child. They are constantly evaluating potential dangers and acting on instinct when they turn aggressive.

From the dog’s perspective, they may attack in response to fear of a child’s unpredictable movements, territorial protection of their home or yard, possessiveness over food or toys, or being sensitive to touch due to a previous injury.

What Parents Must Do Immediately After Attacks on Children

Your actions after a dog attacks your child can have a significant impact on their health and well-being.

Here are the steps you must take right after the dog bites your child:

• Seek immediate medical attention for treatment
• Report the attack to the local animal control agency to investigate the dog’s history
• Document the attack scene, such as owner information, photos, and witness statements
• Consult top dog bite attorneys to discuss legal options

Holding Owners Accountable Under Illinois Law

Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, this is a strict liability state for dog bites to the face and other injuries. State law 510 ILCS 5/ makes it clear that dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs, unless the victims provoked the animal or trespassed on private property.

Some states operate with “one-bite rules,” which means a dog owner may be exempt from liability if it is the dog’s first attack and they have no prior history of aggression. Illinois does not follow this standard.

Therefore, the owner can be held financially responsible for the facial injuries and other damage suffered by your child.

Securing Your Child’s Future After an Attack

A civil claim after a dog attack can help you recover compensation for various legal damages, including:

• Lost wages
• Current medical expenses (emergency care, medication, reconstructive surgery)
• Future medical bills (plastic surgery, psychological counseling, therapy, rehabilitation)
• Emotional trauma (anxiety, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and other forms of emotional distress)
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life

For dog attacks on children, the settlement amount is often placed in a protected account or annuity until they turn 18. The statute of limitations for injured minors in Illinois is two years from their 18th birthday (735 ILCS 5/13-202).

What Makes Us The Best Lawyers for Child Dog Bite Cases in Illinois?

Our law firm has decades of experience with dog bite cases. We understand the dangers that unfamiliar dogs can pose to playful children, and even family dogs can act unpredictably. Our attorneys will provide a compassionate approach when dealing with the sensitive nature of your bite claim.

We are dedicated to helping you and your child secure the resources they need for a full recovery.

Our Settlements for Dog Bite Victims in Illinois

Our legal team has a 98% success rate with personal injury claims. The settlements we have secured for past clients prove our ability to provide financial security after your child experiences a severely traumatic event. Here are a few cases we have won for dog bites involving children:

$1,200,000 – Two-year-old Sophie was mauled by a relative’s Doberman Pinscher, leaving her with severe facial lacerations that required surgery. The permanent scarring, combined with her young age, significantly increased the case value.

$885,000 – At a cookout, 15-year-old Dylan was attacked by a large dog and knocked into a bonfire, suffering burns and bite wounds. The unusual combination of injuries and emotional trauma drove the settlement amount higher.

$375,000 – Three-year-old Ethan was attacked by a pit bull, requiring surgery for facial injuries. The permanent scarring and the child’s age were central factors in the settlement.

Contact Our Illinois Child Injury Attorneys Today

You and your child may be struggling with the psychological impact and physical toll of the dog attack, wondering how you can care for your little one during this time. Even if you sought immediate medical attention that was effective, there are still heavy financial implications.

Our legal team works on a contingency fee basis, so you owe nothing unless we secure a settlement for your family. We will handle the legal logistics, allowing you to focus on recovery.

Contact the best Chicago dog bite lawyers today for a free and confidential consultation about the circumstances surrounding your child’s suffering.