Can You File a Claim if a Dog Injures You Without Biting?

The Law Offices of Morton J. Shuman, P.C. • July 8, 2025

When most people think of dog-related injuries, they immediately picture dog bites–but there are other ways dogs can cause harm. In Massachusetts, you can pursue a personal injury claim even if a dog injures you without biting.


At The Law Offices of Morton J. Shuman, P.C., we help clients throughout Framingham, Natick, Marlborough, and Milford understand their rights when it comes to dog-related injuries.

What Are Non-Bite Dog Injuries?

Non-bite injuries are any injuries caused by a dog’s behavior that don’t involve its teeth.


Common examples include:


  • Being knocked down by a jumping dog
  • Tripping over a dog or its leash
  • Scratches from an aggressive or excited dog
  • Falls resulting from leash entanglement
  • Injuries from a dog chasing or charging you


These incidents can have serious consequences, including broken bones, sprains, head injuries, and long-term pain or disability. A victim may file a claim seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Massachusetts Law and Strict Liability

Massachusetts is a strict liability state regarding dog owner responsibility. Under statute G.L. c. 140, § 155, dog owners are legally responsible for injuries their pets cause–even if the dog had never shown aggression. As long as you were not trespassing or provoking the dog, the owner can be held liable for your injuries.

What to Do After a Non-Bite Dog Injury

  1. Seek medical treatment. Your health comes first. Some injuries, such as concussions, may not show symptoms immediately, so it is essential to seek care from a medical professional.
  2. Report the Incident. Contact animal control or the police and file a report, especially if the dog was off-leash or aggressive.
  3. Document everything. Photograph the location, your injuries, and any other relevant information.
  4. Get witness information. Eyewitnesses can help you corroborate your version of events. Get contact information from as many as possible.
  5. Contact a personal injury attorney. Dog injury claims can be complex. A skilled attorney can guide you through the process and protect your rights.

Trust a Framingham Dog Injury Attorney with Experience

At The Law Offices of Morton J. Shuman, P.C., we know how stressful and painful dog-related injuries can be. We’ve handled every dog-related injury imaginable. Our attorneys can navigate Massachusetts dog liability laws and get results.


If you were injured by someone else’s dog–bitten or not–you may be entitled to compensation. Call us today for a free consultation. Get the legal support you deserve in your path to justice.

Lawyer in suit writing, with scales of justice and gavel on desk.

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