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Idaho dog liability for owners of strong dogs

Without a bite statute, Idaho courts look at what the owner knew and whether any safety rule was broken.

German Shepherd sitting up in the grass

No dog bite statute

The dogbitelaw.com summary of Idaho dog bite law says a bite victim in Idaho can recover under negligence, negligence per se, scienter and intentional tort, and that with no dog bite statute the state is a one-bite state. It quotes an Idaho appeals court that an owner is liable if the owner knew or should have known of the animal's vicious or dangerous tendencies.

Negligence per se and notice

The same page says Idaho recognizes negligence per se when a statute or regulation sets the standard of care, and gives failure to warn a visitor that a dog might bite as one form of negligence. It also says a landlord can be liable only with actual or constructive notice of a dog's dangerous propensity.

What it means for buyersA bite is not free if the owner was careless or ignored warning signs. Fencing, warning signs, a reliable recall and insurance are the practical protection. Ask an Idaho attorney how this applies to you.

The statute of limitations

The dogbitelaw.com summary of Idaho dog bite law lists a two-year limit for dog bite claims in Idaho under Idaho Code 5-219, which matters if an incident ever occurs.

Insurance and housing

Tell your insurer what dog is coming and read your lease or association rules first. State law does not override either.

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