Dogs Attack Statistics by Breed 2023

General numbers:

• Approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs in the United States each year.
• About 800,000 people seek medical attention for dog bites each year.
• Children are the most common victims of dog bites, accounting for about 50% of all victims.
• Postal workers are also at a high risk of being bitten by dogs, with over 5,000 attacks reported each year.
• Breeds

The top five most frequently involved breeds in fatal dog attacks in the United States in 2023 are:

• Pit Bulls (56%)
• Rottweilers (15%)
• German Shepherds (8%)
• American Bulldogs (5%)
• Presa Canarios (3%)

It is important to note that this list is based on fatal attacks only, and that all dog breeds can be dangerous if they are not properly trained and socialized. It is also important to remember that fatal dog attacks are relatively rare, and that the vast majority of dogs are loving and loyal companions.

Pit bulls are the most likely breed of dog to bite, followed by German shepherds and Rottweilers.

Other breeds that are commonly involved in dog bite incidents include Labrador retrievers, American bulldogs, and mixed breeds.

Severity

• Most dog bites are minor and do not require medical attention.
• However, about 1% of dog bites result in serious injuries, such as broken bones, nerve damage, or infection.
• Fatal dog attacks are rare, but they do occur, especially among children.

Other

• Male dogs are more likely to bite than female dogs.
• Unaltered dogs are more likely to bite than neutered or spayed dogs.
• Dogs that are chained or confined are more likely to bite than dogs that have free roam of a yard.

Prevention

• The best way to prevent dog bites is to teach children how to interact safely with dogs and to supervise them closely when they are around dogs.
• It is also important to train your dog to obey basic commands and to socialize it to other people and animals from a young age.