Common Injuries from Dog Bites and Their Treatment

Dog Bites in California

Dog bites can be traumatic, leaving both physical and emotional scars. In California, dog bite laws are strict, holding owners responsible for most attacks. If you or a loved one has been bitten, knowing the types of injuries and how to get proper treatment is the first step toward healing—and protecting your rights. For more about how owners can be held accountable, see our Premises Liability overview.

Types of Dog Bite Injuries

Dog attacks cause a range of injuries. Some are immediately obvious, while others become clear only after the shock wears off. Common injuries include:

• Puncture wounds
• Deep lacerations
• Bruising and abrasions
• Crushed or broken bones
• Nerve damage
• Muscle and tendon injuries
• Facial injuries
• Eye injuries
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Infections
• Emotional trauma

For a detailed look at medical complications, visit our Common Injuries from Dog Bites and Their Treatment guide.

Puncture Wounds and Lacerations

The most frequent injuries from a dog bite are puncture wounds and lacerations. Even small wounds can be serious, as dog saliva may carry bacteria.

• Deep punctures risk infection
• Lacerations can require stitches
• Minor abrasions may still need medical attention

Read more about Steps to Take After a Dog Bite Injury to protect your health and legal rights.

Broken Bones and Crush Injuries

Strong jaw pressure can break fingers, hands, or even facial bones. These injuries may need:

• X-rays to assess damage
• Splints or casts for healing
• Surgery in severe cases

In children, facial fractures are a particular concern. Find out more about Premises Liability and who may be responsible if a dog attack happens on someone else’s property.

Nerve and Tendon Damage

A dog’s teeth can sever nerves or tendons, causing:

• Loss of feeling or movement
• Long-term disability
• Need for specialized surgery

Prompt treatment improves the odds of recovery.

Scarring and Disfigurement

Many dog bite survivors face visible scars or changes to their appearance. This is especially distressing when the face or hands are involved. Treatment options include:

• Stitches and wound care
• Plastic or reconstructive surgery
• Scar revision procedures

Learn about your options for compensation after a dog bite.

Infections and Disease

Dog bites are prone to infection due to bacteria in the dog’s mouth. Common infections include:

• Cellulitis
• Abscesses
• Sepsis (blood infection)
• Rabies (rare in California but possible)
• Tetanus

Antibiotics, wound cleaning, and sometimes vaccines are needed. For more detail on infection risks, see Common Premises Liability Injuries and Compensation.

Emotional and Psychological Impact

The trauma from a dog bite can affect mental health. Victims may experience:

• Anxiety around animals
• Nightmares or flashbacks
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Depression

Counseling or therapy can help recovery. If the bite happened at work, you may have rights under Workplace Injury.

Immediate First Aid

After a dog bite, take these steps right away:

• Wash the wound with soap and water
• Control bleeding with clean bandages
• Apply an antibiotic ointment
• Cover the wound with a sterile dressing
• Seek medical care, even for minor bites

Check out our article on How to Document a Slip and Fall Injury for a Claim for broader injury documentation tips.

Medical Treatment

Doctors may provide:

• Tetanus or rabies shots
• Antibiotics to prevent infection
• Stitches or surgery for deep wounds
• Imaging for suspected fractures
• Wound cleaning and debridement

A follow-up visit is often required to monitor healing.

Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation

Some injuries require long-term treatment, such as:

• Physical therapy for movement loss
• Occupational therapy to regain daily skills
• Surgery for nerve or tendon repair
• Scar management

Support groups or counseling address emotional recovery.

Legal Rights After a Dog Bite

California law (Civil Code Section 3342) holds dog owners strictly liable in most cases. If a dog bites you in a public place or when lawfully on private property, the owner is typically responsible—even if the dog had no history of aggression.

• Dog owners may be liable for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress
• Homeowners’ or renters’ insurance often covers dog bite claims
• Claims must be filed within two years of injury

For more, see Who Is Liable for a Dog Attack?.

Steps to Protect Your Rights

To strengthen your claim:

• Get medical attention promptly
• Take photos of injuries and the scene
• Keep records of doctor visits and bills
• Report the bite to local animal control
• Identify the dog and owner
• Collect witness names and contact information

See our Top Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents for tips on injury evidence that also apply to bite cases.

Damages You May Recover

Dog bite survivors can often seek compensation for:

• Medical costs (past and future)
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Rehabilitation expenses

For more about what you might recover, see Common Premises Liability Injuries and Compensation.

When to Call a Lawyer

An experienced attorney can help you:

• Understand your legal rights
• Deal with insurance companies
• Gather and preserve evidence
• Negotiate for a fair settlement

To learn about other injury claims, visit our Personal Injury practice area or Dog Bites matter type page.

Take Action Today

Dog bites are serious and can have lasting effects. If you or a loved one has been hurt, Attain Law is ready to guide you through your options. Call us at (888) 970-8627 or contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to support you.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Bite Injuries in California

What should I do immediately after a dog bite in California? Wash the wound, control bleeding, seek medical care, and report the bite to local animal control. Document the incident and gather owner and witness information.

Can I recover medical costs after a dog bite in California? Yes. California law usually holds dog owners strictly liable for bite injuries, so you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

What infections can result from a dog bite? Dog bites can lead to infections such as cellulitis, abscesses, tetanus, and, rarely, rabies. Prompt medical care and antibiotics help prevent serious complications.

Is there a time limit for filing a dog bite claim in California? Yes. You generally have two years from the date of the bite to file a claim for personal injury in California.

What emotional impacts can follow a dog bite? Many victims experience anxiety, fear of dogs, nightmares, or even post-traumatic stress. Counseling or therapy can help with emotional recovery after a bite.