Connecticut does not have a statewide leash law that requires pet owners to keep their dogs on a leash in public. However, this does not mean dog owners have no responsibility to control their pets.
While pet owners do not need to keep their dogs leashed, they must keep their dogs under control at all times. Failing to do so can lead to clear liability in dog bite cases.
Liability for dog bites
In Connecticut, dog owners face strict liability for injuries caused by their dogs. This means the owner is generally responsible for any harm the dog causes. Even though there is no leash law that requires owners to physically restrain their pets, they must ensure their dogs remain under control. This means dogs should not roam freely in public spaces or private properties where they are not welcome. If a dog escapes or attacks someone while off the owner’s property, the owner is likely liable for any injuries the dog causes.
The location of a dog bite
One key factor that comes into play in dog bite cases is whether the dog was on another person’s private property without permission. Connecticut law requires dog owners to prevent their pets from trespassing on private property. If a dog bites someone while on another person’s property without consent, the dog owner is likely to be responsible for the injury. This can increase the chances of a claimant receiving compensation for medical costs, lost wages and other damages.
Even in public areas, such as parks, owners must keep their dogs from becoming a threat to others. If a dog behaves aggressively or causes injury, the owner could face liability regardless of whether the dog was on a leash. The absence of a leash law does not protect an owner from legal responsibility if the dog harms someone.
Connecticut’s lack of leash laws places a clear burden on dog owners to control their pets. Owners must take reasonable steps to prevent their dogs from becoming a danger to others, especially in public spaces and private properties. Those who suffer injury from a dog bite have every right to seek damages when an uncontrolled dog causes harm.