Reno’s Most Trusted Dog Bite Lawyer

Dog bite injuries can cause serious physical harm, emotional trauma, and financial stress, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our experienced team is here to help you in the aftermath with compassionate guidance and unwavering advocacy. At Friedman & Throop, we fight for dog bite victims across Northern Nevada to recover the compensation they deserve, and we start with a free consultation. Contact us today to learn how a dog bite lawyer can help you navigate your case and pursue the justice you deserve. 

Why You Need a Dog Bite Attorney

One moment you’re taking a stroll through town, and the next, a loose dog knocks you down and bites you. It’s a scenario we’ve seen too often. Dog attacks can leave victims with more than just scars. They often bring mounting medical bills, missed work, and long-term pain. Many victims don’t know their legal rights or how to deal with aggressive insurance companies. That’s where our skilled dog bite attorneys step in. 

As a Reno-based firm, Friedman & Throop understands Nevada’s legal system inside and out. Nevada’s dog bite laws are complex. Liability is rarely automatic, and dog owners (or their insurers) often dispute fault. Our knowledgeable dog bite accident lawyers meticulously gather the facts, secure key evidence, negotiate with insurers, and, if necessary, take your case to court. 

Every case is personally handled by an experienced attorney—not handed off to paralegals or assistants. This ensures your claim gets the full professional care it deserves. Going it alone is risky. With the support of our dog bite lawyers near you, your chances of securing full compensation rise significantly.

Why Choose Friedman & Throop for Your Dog Bite Case?

We are a top-tier Reno personal injury law firm with a long track record of success. Here’s why clients trust us:  

Proven Results: We have combined settlements and judgments in excess of $600 Million.

Extensive Experience: With more than 60 years of combined experience, our attorneys have handled countless complex personal injury cases across Nevada from dog bite claims to premises liability incidents.

Award-Winning, Local Attorneys: Our team is composed of Nevada’s most respected trial lawyers. Terry Friedman is a recipient of the Nevada Justice Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award, and Julie Throop has been named one of Nevada’s Legal Elite for multiple years. 

Personalized Lawyer-Only Service: Every case is personally managed by an attorney, and never passed off to a paralegal or assistant. You’ll receive direct communication throughout the process and a strategy tailored to your specific case.

Northern Nevada Focus: As lifelong Nevadans, we’re proud to call this state home, and this personal connection drives everything we do. Our team brings a deep understanding of the region’s laws, courts, and communities, along with a genuine commitment to protecting the people who live here.  

No Fee Unless We Win: At Friedman & Throop, we operate on a contingency fee basis. You don’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs, hidden charges, or surprise bills. It all starts with a free consultation, where we’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and help you decide what’s best, with no pressure or obligation. 

Understanding Nevada Dog Bite Laws

• “One-Bite” Rule: In the state of Nevada, there is no statute that imposes automatic liability for dog bite injuries. Instead, Nevada follows the “one-bite” rule like many other U.S. states. This means that if a dog bites someone for the first time, and there is no known history of aggressive behavior, an owner may be able to avoid liability. However, this does not mean that a dog gets a “free bite” before the owner is held liable. Nevada courts apply negligence principles to determine liability, and an owner can be held accountable if they failed to reasonably prevent the attack (e.g., violated a leash law). 

• Owner Negligence: Despite the “one-bite” rule, victims can still sue under negligence. Negligence is failure to exercise the level of care a reasonable person would use in a similar situation, resulting in harm to another person. In the case of dog attacks, negligence can include failing to use a leash when required by law or ignoring signs of aggression. In many situations, dog bite claims can also fall under premises liability law. According to premises liability law, a property owner has the duty of care to keep their premises reasonably safe. Owners may be held liable for dog bite injuries that happen on their property if they acted negligently.   

• Comparative Fault: Nevada follows a comparative fault (negligence) rule, sometimes called the “50% bar” rule. This means that if a victim is found to be more than 50% at fault for the incident, such as provoking, teasing, or tormenting a dog, they may be barred from recovering damages. Accusations of provocation are common in dog bite cases, and our dog bite accident lawyers will work to carefully investigate the facts and defend your claim.

• “Dangerous Dog” Designation: Under Washoe County ordinances and Nevada law, a dog that has bitten someone may be designated as “dangerous” or “vicious,” especially if it has a history of attacks. This designation can impose stricter requirements on the owner, such as mandatory containment or liability for future incidents. If the dog had already been classified as dangerous, it can significantly strengthen a victim’s case by demonstrating that the dog was known to be a threat. 

• Local Leash Laws: In Reno, local leash laws require that dogs be leashed or contained within congested areas at all times, except in designated off-leash areas, to ensure public safety. If a dog owner violates these laws mandated by Washoe County Regional Animal Services, and an accident occurs, this can be considered negligence per se. In other words, the violation can serve as automatic evidence of negligence. If you’ve been bitten by a dog and the owner has violated these leash laws, it strengthens your case for compensation. 

• Statute of Limitations: In the state of Nevada, the statute of limitations for filing a dog bite injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the attack. It’s so important to act promptly. Waiting too long can forfeit your legal rights and ability to recover compensation. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, contact a dog bite lawyer as soon as possible. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Common Dog Bite Injuries and Compensation

Dog bite injuries can range from minor to life-threatening. Common physical injuries include: 

• Puncture wounds
• Deep lacerations
• Torn flesh and muscle damage
• Infections
• Nerve damage 
• Fracture, broken bones, or dislocation
• Loss of eyes or limbs
• Amputation
• Scarring or disfigurement 

If a dog bit you or someone you know, you’re all too aware that the impact of a dog bite accident goes beyond the physical. Many victims, particularly children, suffer lasting emotional trauma, including fear of dogs, anxiety, nightmares, or even PTSD. These psychological scars can persist long after the wounds have healed and affect daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. Victims of dog bite attacks may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: All past and future medical costs related to the bite such as ER visits, surgery, medication, and treatment.
• Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery or long-term disability.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress such as fear, anxiety, or mental anguish that impacts quality of life.
• Scarring and Disfigurement: Compensation for permanent or visible scars, especially on the face or hands, which may require plastic surgery and impact self-esteem or quality of life.
• Other Costs: This includes compensation for physical or occupational therapy, counseling, rehabilitation, or long-term care needs. You may also be entitled to compensation for property damage, such as torn clothing or broken glasses. 

In Northern Nevada, we’ve handled many cases where young children were unfortunately the victims of severe dog attacks. We understand how traumatic these cases can be, not only for the child but for the entire family. On top of the emotional burden, injuries to children can be especially costly and take a financial toll. That’s why our team of dog bite attorneys is committed to providing compassionate legal support and fighting to recover the full compensation that families need to heal and move forward. 

What to Do After a Dog Bite in Reno

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you’ve been involved in a dog bite accident, be sure to follow these important steps to protect your health and legal rights. 

1. Seek medical attention immediately, even for minor injuries, in order to prevent infection and ensure proper care.
2. Identify the dog owner and collect their contact information. Be sure to verify details about the dog’s vaccination status, particularly for rabies.
3. Document everything related to the dog bite accident. This includes photos of injuries and other damages, the location of the incident, witness information, and medical records and bills.
4. Report the incident to Washoe County Animal Services at (775) 353-8900 to create an official record. 
5. Consult with a dog bite lawyer as soon as possible to understand your legal rights, and learn what options you have for pursuing compensation. Avoid giving statements to insurance companies or signing anything without first consulting a dog bite accident lawyer.

Our Commitment to Dog Bite Victims in Reno 

At Friedman & Throop, we don’t just represent injury victims, we stand by our neighbors. With Northern Nevada roots and active community involvement, our dedication to this region and the people who call it home runs far deeper than the courtroom. This is reflected in the cases we take and the causes we champion, such as Julie Throop’s involvement with the Junior League of Reno.

And it’s this community-focused approach that is at the heart of how we handle every case. When you work with us, you’re not just a client. You become part of the family. We treat every case with the compassion, urgency, and respect it deserves, and make sure you feel heard and supported throughout the legal process. Beyond legal representation, we go the extra mile by connecting victims with trusted resources, like medical specialists and therapists, because your recovery matters to us. From the first consultation to the final resolution, we’re here to support you every step of the way. 

Contact Our Reno Dog Bite Lawyers for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite accident, it’s crucial to act quickly. Our team of dog bite attorneys will help you navigate the complexities of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait—the sooner we can begin working on your case, the better your chances for a full recovery. Contact our dog bite lawyers near you at (775) 322-6500 or fill out our easy online form to schedule your free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and help you understand the best path forward.