San Francisco Dog Bite Lawyer
A dog bite can cause serious wounds, scarring, and lasting fear. In San Francisco, California law strongly protects bite victims — and we handle SF dog bite claims so you can focus on healing.
Where SF dog bites happen
Bites happen in parks and on sidewalks, at apartment buildings, on private property, and during deliveries and dog-walking in this dense, dog-friendly city — often involving loose dogs or ones the owner failed to control.
California's strict-liability dog-bite law
California generally holds a dog's owner strictly liable when their dog bites someone in a public place or while lawfully on private property — meaning you usually do not have to prove the dog bit before or that the owner was careless. This is more protective of victims than the rule in many states.
After an SF dog bite: reporting and care
Get medical care — bites carry infection and rabies risk — and report the bite to San Francisco Animal Care and Control or the local agency, which creates an official record. Photograph the wounds and the scene, and get the owner's and any witness's information.
How we help injured SF residents
We identify the owner and the insurance — homeowner's or renter's policies often cover bites — document the injuries and scarring, and pursue full compensation. The review is free and confidential. Se habla español.
Frequently asked questions
Does the dog have to have bitten someone before?
Generally no. California's strict-liability rule usually applies even for a first bite, so you typically do not have to show the dog had a history or that the owner was careless.
It was a friend's or neighbor's dog. Do I have to sue them personally?
Usually the claim is paid by the owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance, not out of their pocket. Pursuing a claim does not have to mean personal conflict.
Hurt in San Francisco? Find out where you stand.
A quick, confidential review — about two minutes, no cost, no obligation.
This is general information about California injury claims, not legal advice. Every case is different.