New Jersey Dog Bite Law:
Your Complete Guide

An overview of New Jersey dog bite law, including liability rules, statutes of limitations, and compensation.

2 Years

Statute of Limitations

Strict Liability

Liability Framework

$77,447

Average Cost Per Claim in 2025

818

Dog Bite Injury Claims in 2025

Source: Insurance Information Institute and State Farm, 2025 release.

New Jersey Dog Bite Law Overview

New Jersey follows a strict-liability rule for dog-bite claims, which means an owner may be responsible for damages suffered by any person bitten by the dog in a public place or lawfully on private property, regardless of the dog’s prior behavior.

After a dog bite, people often have questions about who may be responsible, what losses may be involved, and how much time they have to act. In many cases, a New Jersey injury claim is subject to a 2-year filing deadline, although this can vary depending on the circumstances.

Dog Bite Help Center offers general educational information to help people better understand these issues and the inquiry process. When available, some inquiries may be reviewed by a participating attorney licensed in New Jersey.

What Damages May Be Available in New Jersey?

Medical Expenses

Emergency room treatment

Surgery and hospital care

Physical therapy

Future medical care

Lost Income

Time away from work

Future income loss

Reduced ability to work

Work-related limitations

Pain & Suffering

Physical pain

Emotional distress

Anxiety and distress

Sleep problems

Other Damages

Permanent scarring

Disfigurement

Loss of enjoyment of life

Punitive damages (in some cases)

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Frequently Asked Questions: New Jersey Dog Bite Law

What should I do after a dog bite in New Jersey?

Get medical care as soon as possible, even if the injury seems minor. In New Jersey, people who are bitten should notify the local health department that has jurisdiction where the animal is kept, and it is also helpful to keep photos, treatment records, and basic information about the dog owner and incident.

How does a dog bite claim usually work in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, dog-bite claims often focus on whether the defendant owned the dog, whether the dog bit the injured person, and whether the person was in a public place or was lawfully on private property. New Jersey’s dog-bite statute generally does not require proof that the owner knew the dog was dangerous beforehand.

How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in New Jersey?

In many cases, New Jersey personal injury claims are subject to a 2-year filing period. Deadlines can vary depending on the facts, so waiting too long can create problems even when a claim may otherwise exist.

Can I still have a case in New Jersey if the dog never bit anyone before?

Yes, potentially. Under New Jersey’s dog-bite statute, prior viciousness or the owner’s prior knowledge is generally not required when the claim involves a bite and the injured person was in a public place or was lawfully on private property.

What compensation may be available after a dog bite in New Jersey?

A New Jersey dog-bite claim may involve medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, scarring, disfigurement, and other case-specific losses. The damages that may be available depend on the injuries, treatment, and other facts involved.