Little Dogs Can Bite Too
People often dismiss little dogs as “too cute” to be dangerous. Because of their petite size and yappy nature, many people believe Chihuahuas cannot cause harm. However, even small animals can cause serious scars if people do not treat them with caution and respect. We have seen cases where people leaned in to kiss a dog after the owner said it was safe to do so, only to have the little dog bite their lip or face and cause severe scarring. The simple reality is that any dog can bite and cause damage—even the little cute dogs.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite, talk to a Houston dog bite attorney to help you seek the medical treatment and compensation you deserve from the negligent dog owner. Simmons and Fletcher, P.C., has been helping dog bite victims recover from dog attacks for over four decades. Call (713) 932-0777 for a free consultation with an experienced attorney.
Chihuahuas – Background
Chihuahuas are the smallest recognized dog breed, ranging from 5 to 8 inches tall and weighing about 3 to 6 pounds. Chihuahuas are known for their rounded heads, pointed muzzles, big, round eyes, and large, perked-up ears. The breed is known for being lively, feisty, and extremely devoted to its owner. Chihuahuas were first noted during the mid-19th century when they were bred in Mexico and named after the Mexican state of ‘Chihuahua.’ The breed is believed to derive from the extinct Techichi dog, which dates back to Mayan times. Chihuahuas were initially bred as lifelong companions and were seen as holy animals. During Aztec rule in Mexico, it was believed that when a person died, a Chihuahua needed to be slain and buried with the body to guide the person’s soul through the afterlife. Since coming to America in the early 1900s, the breed has become a popular household pet.
Many Chihuahuas make good family pets. They are described as lap dogs that like attention, are active, and are very loyal. Many Chihuahuas form a special bond with one owner and stay devoted to that owner. However, when mishandled and not properly trained, a Chihuahua’s misguided loyalty can turn into aggression towards visitors and even other family members. Despite their toy-like size, a Chihuahua’s aggression can become dangerous, and attacks can cause permanent damage to the victim, especially if the victim is a child. Moreover, a Chihuahua may bite a child out of fear because the child is unpredictable and erratic. Follow these steps to take when your child is bitten by a dog.
Call Us After A Chihuahua Bite
Simmons and Fletcher, P.C., has been helping victims of dog bites since 1979. For a free consultation to discuss your rights and the next steps after a small dog bites you, call (713) 932-0777.
FAQ's
Can a Chihuahua bite harm me?
Yes, despite their small size, Chihuahuas can inflict permanent scars if they get someone’s face or arm; they can even take off a finger.
Will My friend’s Chihuahua be put down if I call animal control?
In Texas, animal control rarely puts down a dog for the first bite unless they evaluate the dog and determine it is vicious or has rabies. Usually, a history of unprovoked attacks is required before they consider putting a dog down. Each state follows its own dog bite laws.
Is a dog owner liable if their small dog bites me?
Texas follows the One Bite Rule. According to the One Bite Rule, dog owners may be held liable for their dog’s aggressive actions only if the owner was aware that the dog had abnormal vicious tendencies. To prove that an owner knew of their dog’s vicious tendencies, the dog must have bitten someone before or otherwise shown aggression toward a human. There are a few exceptions where a negligent handling case can be made, but it requires a situation where the owner has specific knowledge that should put him on alert the dog is likely to bite in a certain situation.
