Great Dane Attacks
The majority of Great Danes make great family pets. However, although many people regard Great Danes as gentle and loving giants, attacks can and do happen. For instance, research done by dogsbite.org states that in 2019, attacks by Great Danes inflicted only one death. Additionally, one study done by petolog.com reported that between September 1982 and December 2022, Great Danes were responsible for 37 attacks. Three of the attacks resulted in deaths, and 19 were maimings causing permanent harm. Moreover, of the 37 attacks, 12 of them were on children. This statistic serves as a reminder that even gentle dog breeds can cause damage, especially to more vulnerable people. It is important to teach children how to safely interact with dogs.
If you or someone you love has been attacked or bitten by a dog, talk to a Houston dog bite lawyer about holding the negligent owner accountable. At Simmons and Fletcher, P.C., we have been helping dog attack victims seek the compensation they deserve for their injuries since 1979. Call (713) 932-0777 for a free consultation.
Great Dane History
Great Danes are one of the largest and tallest dog breeds in the world, with males weighing up to 175 pounds and females weighing up to 140 pounds. Great Danes are distinguishable by their athletic build, big ears, long tails, and tall stature that can even be taller than a human when they stand on their hind legs. The breed is known to be very sociable, devoted, reserved, and loving animals. Great Danes are descendants of mastiff-like dogs and date back to the 18th century when they were bred by German nobility to protect country estates, hunt deer, and hunt boar. They were eventually brought over to the United States in the late 1880s.
Despite their initial purpose as hunting and protecting dogs, most Great Danes are not generally aggressive. In fact, Great Danes have been given the nickname “gentle giants” for their friendly and loving nature. The breed is described by its owners as being playful, affectionate, and good with children. However, when not properly trained or when abused or mistreated, any dog may become dangerous for owners and visitors alike. Moreover, due to the Great Danes’ massive stature, the dog can easily overpower people, making attacks very difficult to stop, especially if they attack a small child or other family pets. Additionally, Great Danes can be moderately playful. Sometimes, their playfulness can become a bit rough, which can lead to accidental injuries to small children that the dog does not mean to harm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes a Great Dane to Bite?
Although regarded as very friendly dogs, there are many reasons Great Danes may bite. A Great Dane may bite as a result of territorial aggression. If a person or an animal the dog does not recognize threatens their home or belongings, the Great Dane may attack. Additionally, a Great Dane may attack if they are in pain. When a dog is in pain, it can result in it lashing out at anyone that gets too close when the dog wants space. Moreover, a Great Dane may bite if they are mistreated by humans. If a dog is mistreated or abused by humans, it may lead to the dog attacking or biting people as a result of its mistrust.
What Should I Do After a Dog Attack?
If you have been attacked by a dog, you should separate yourself from the dog and seek medical attention if needed to prevent infection. Once you have taken care of your injuries, you need to report the incident to animal control as soon as possible. You need to identify the correct animal control department for the location where the incident occurred. Animal control will launch an investigation to look at the dog’s history, their medical records, and to determine whether the dog is a dangerous animal. After you have contacted animal control, you should consider contacting a Texas dog bite attorney who can help determine whether you are eligible for compensation for your medical expenses, pain and suffering, and more.
When Do I Have to Report a Great Dane Bite?
The Texas Department of State Health requires that all dog bites be reported immediately due to public health concerns. If you have been bitten by a dog, there is a possibility that you may contract and spread rabies. Reporting the attack allows animal control to check the dog’s vaccination records to see whether there is a possibility of contracting rabies from a bite. Additionally, by reporting the incident to animal control, you are ensuring there will be a record of the bite, and you will have evidence of the injuries caused by the dog. Having a record of the incident will be helpful if you wish to pursue legal action against the negligent dog owner.
Talk to an Experienced Lawyer
If you or a loved one have been attacked by a Great Dane, you need an experienced and knowledgeable attorney on your side. At Simmons and Fletcher, P.C., our attorneys understand that dog bites can cause serious harm, and we will do everything we can to fight for your right to a proper recovery. Our firm has been representing dog bite victims for over four decades. Call us at (713) 932-0777 for a free consultation to discuss the next steps in your Great Dane case.