Under Washington state law, a dog can be designated as dangerous if it inflicts a bite on a human or domestic animal unprovoked on public or private property. A dog can be designated as dangerous if it chases a person on the streets, sidewalks or any public grounds in a menacing fashion or in an apparent attack. If the dog has a known propensity to attack or cause injury or threaten the safety of humans or domestic animals.

Severe dog attack injuries include broken bones, dog bites or disfiguring lacerations requiring sutures or cosmetic surgery.

Confinement of dangerous dogs

Dangerous dogs must be confined on the owner’s property, securely confined indoors or securely enclosed and locked in a pen or structure. The enclosure must prevent the entry of young children and prevent the dog from escaping, including secure sides and a top. The dog should be protected from the elements in the enclosure.

Pierce County’s Animal Control Office outlines key considerations for how authorities will designate a dog as dangerous. Owners of dogs designated dangerous must take extra measures to keep their dog muzzled while off their property and they must carry liability insurance for up to $500,000.