Can I sue for a dog bite injury and who is responsible?

Yes. Dog bite injuries are a well-established category of personal injury claim, and the dog's owner is typically the responsible party. States follow one of two legal frameworks. In strict liability states (the majority), the owner is automatically liable for injuries their dog causes regardless of whether the dog had ever shown aggression before — you do not need to prove the owner was negligent. In "one-bite rule" states, you generally must show that the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous (for example, a prior bite or aggressive behavior). Compensation typically comes from the owner's homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, which usually covers dog bite liability. Recoverable damages include medical expenses (emergency care, surgery, reconstructive procedures for scarring), lost wages, pain and suffering, and compensation for permanent disfigurement or psychological trauma — which is common in children. Document the bite with photographs, report it to local animal control, identify the dog and owner, and seek prompt medical care to reduce infection risk and to create a treatment record.