What is the legal definition of a dangerous dog?

In Washington, the legal definition of a dangerous dog is one that has done one or more of the following three things: attacked a person or pet causing physical injury or death, chased or approached a person or pet in a menacing manner, or acted in a highly aggressive manner towards people or pets. The law states that any dog found to qualify as dangerous will be placed under specific restrictions, such as the requirement that the dog must be spayed or neutered and held on a leash. It must also be muzzled when taken off the property, and kept securely enclosed at all times. The owner of a dangerous dog also must take out liability insurance of at least $50,000 and post warning signs on the property to alert passersby of the dangerous animal. The local government may issue additional requirements, such as the need for the owner to attend training on proper handling of dangerous dogs. If a dangerous dog is transferred to a new owner, the owner must make sure that the new owner is made aware of the dog’s history and any restrictions on its behavior. The new owner must also abide by the same regulations as the original owner. If a dangerous dog attacks a person or pet, or if it is found to violate any of the restrictions stated in the law, its owner can be held legally liable for any damages caused. In extreme cases, the dangerous dog may be euthanized.

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What is the legal definition of a dangerous dog?

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