Dog Bites
N.J.S.A. 4:19-16 — the owner is liable regardless of the dog's past
Liable regardless of the dog's history. In New Jersey, the owner of a dog that bites a person in a public place, or lawfully on private property including the owner's, is liable for the damages, regardless of the dog's former viciousness or the owner's knowledge of it.
A person is lawfully on the owner's property when there by express or implied invitation, or carrying out a duty under state or federal law or postal regulations.
Sources for this section (1)
- N.J.S.A. 4:19-16 — Dog bites: liability of owner
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed New Jersey attorney.