Understanding Maryland’s Dangerous Pet Laws ⚖️ Strict Liability for Dog Attacks In Maryland, pet owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs if the attack occurred unprovoked. This means victims do not need to prove negligence—only that the attack happened. However, if the owner can show the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog, their liability might be reduced. 📜 Maryland Code Section 3-1901 Maryland law presumes that if a dog attacks someone, the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous. This places the burden on the owner to prove otherwise. If you were legally present on the property or in public space, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. 🛑 Other Dangerous Animals While Maryland law is specific about dogs, owners of other potentially dangerous pets, such as exotic animals or aggressive cats, may also be held liable under common negligence laws. If they knew—or should have known—their pet posed a risk and failed to take p...
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