What is the legal definition of a dangerous dog?

In Maine, a dangerous dog is legally defined as a dog that has caused severe injury to a person or companion animal two or more times, or a dog that has killed or caused severe injury to a person or companion animal one or more times. It can also refer to a dog that has been found to be potentially dangerous by a municipal officer twice. A dog can receive a potentially dangerous designation if it makes unprovoked threats, chases or approaches a person or companion animal in an aggressive manner, or has a history of attacking without provocation. An owner of a dangerous dog must register the dog with the municipality; must confine it on the owner’s property; must ensure it is wearing a muzzle and is on a leash; and must post a “Beware of Dog” sign on the property. The owner must also have liability insurance of at least $100,000. It is illegal for a dangerous dog to be upon or off the property of the owner unless it is securely muzzled and under the control of a responsible person. If a court rules that a dog is dangerous, the owner may have to euthanize it, or the court may allow the dog to be humanely confined if the owner meets specific requirements.

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What is the legal definition of a dangerous dog?

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