Bullmastiff Dog Bite Injury Lawyer

If you or a family member have been injured by a Bullmastiff dog bite in New York, you may have a case to recover compensation. At The Porter Law Group, we understand the physical and emotional trauma caused by dog bites, particularly from powerful breeds like Bullmastiffs whose massive size and 250-300 PSI bite force can cause catastrophic crushing injuries, permanent scarring, and long-term disability.

Our experienced lawyers are committed to holding the dog's owner accountable for your injuries and securing compensation for your pain and suffering, disfigurement, emotional distress, and other economic losses. Following the landmark 2025 Flanders v. Goodfellow decision, New York victims can now pursue negligence claims even when a dog has no prior bite history, significantly expanding your legal options for recovery.

Call us to discuss your case. We operate on a no-fee basis, you only pay if we win. Our approach ensures that our services are accessible to those who need them most, without the burden of upfront costs.

What to Do After a Bullmastiff Bite in New York

Taking immediate action following a Bullmastiff attack is critical for both your medical recovery and legal claim. Bullmastiff bites are particularly serious due to the breed's powerful bite force (250-300 PSI) and tendency to cause crushing injuries, deep tissue damage, and severe infections. Follow these steps to protect your health and preserve your legal rights.

Get Medical Care and Document Injuries

Seek Emergency Medical Attention Immediately

Bullmastiff bites require urgent medical evaluation due to the risk of crushing injuries, bone fractures, nerve damage, and life-threatening infections. Go to the nearest emergency room or call 911 if you experience:

• Deep puncture wounds or extensive lacerations
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Bites to the face, neck, hands, or head
• Visible bone, tendon, or muscle damage
• Crushing or deformity of the affected area
• Signs of shock (pale skin, rapid heartbeat, confusion)
• Any bite involving a child, elderly person, or immunocompromised individual

Even if the wound appears minor on the surface, Bullmastiff bites can cause extensive deep tissue damage that is not immediately visible. Their shorter muzzle creates better leverage, increasing pressure at the bite point and often resulting in crushing injuries that damage multiple tissue layers simultaneously.

Document Your Injuries Thoroughly

Before medical providers clean and dress your wounds, take clear, well-lit photographs of all visible injuries from multiple angles (front, side, close-up). These images provide crucial evidence of injury severity and may be the only record of the initial trauma.

Continue photographing your injuries daily to document:

• Healing progression or complications
• Infection (increased redness, swelling, pus, red streaks)
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Range of motion limitations
• Any surgical procedures or reconstructive treatments

Obtain complete medical records from all healthcare providers, including:

• Emergency room records with detailed injury descriptions
• Surgical reports and operative notes
• All itemized bills and receipts for medications, treatments, and procedures
• Physical therapy and occupational therapy records
• Psychological treatment records for PTSD or anxiety
• Follow-up visit notes documenting ongoing complications

Start a Pain and Symptom Journal

Document your daily pain levels, symptoms, sleep disturbance, nightmares, anxiety, limited movement, and missed work or activities. This record supports claims for pain and suffering, PTSD, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Report the Bite and Identify the Owner

File Official Reports Within 24 Hours

New York law requires immediate reporting of animal bites to protect public health and create official documentation for legal claims.

In New York City: Report all animal bites within 24 hours through the NYC Health Department's online reporting page at portal.311.nyc.gov or by calling 311. This mandatory requirement under NYC Health Code § 11.03 applies to every bite incident, regardless of severity. Save a screenshot of your submission confirmation.

Outside New York City: Report the bite to your county health department immediately. Find contact information at health.ny.gov. Most counties require reporting within 24 to 48 hours.

File a Police Report: Contact your local police department to create an official record. Request a copy of the full police report or case number, as this serves as independent corroboration of the attack and crucial evidence for legal proceedings.

Contact Animal Control: File a formal complaint with your local animal control agency. Provide details about the owner (if known), the dog's breed and appearance, circumstances of the attack, and your medical documentation. Animal control will investigate whether the dog needs a dangerous dog designation and mandatory 10-day rabies observation.

Gather Owner Information

If possible, obtain the dog owner's:

• Full name, address, phone number, and email
• Homeowner's or renter's insurance information
• Proof of the dog's current rabies vaccination
• Veterinary records showing the dog's medical history
• Any prior complaints or warnings about the dog's behavior

If the owner refuses to provide information, inform authorities immediately. The owner's refusal can strengthen your legal claim and may result in additional penalties.

Preserve Evidence for Your Claim

Photograph the Scene

Take comprehensive photographs of:

• The exact location where the attack occurred
• Any broken fences, open gates, or inadequate containment
• Lack of warning signs about the dog
• Blood on the ground or surrounding area
• The dog itself (from a safe distance if possible)
• Any torn or bloody clothing
• Property damage such as damaged leashes or collars

Gather Witness Information

Collect names and contact information of anyone who:

• Witnessed the attack
• Knows about the dog's prior aggressive behavior
• Has complained to the owner or authorities about the dog
• Can testify about the owner's negligent handling or control

Ask witnesses to provide written or recorded statements while the memory is fresh. These statements become powerful evidence in settlement negotiations or litigation.

Preserve Physical Evidence

Keep all damaged clothing, torn personal items, and any other physical evidence in a safe place. Do not wash or throw away anything related to the attack, as lawyers may request these items to demonstrate the severity of the incident.

Research the Dog's History

Contact local animal control to determine if the dog has:

• Previous bite complaints or incident reports
• A dangerous dog designation under Agriculture & Markets Law § 123
• Prior complaints from neighbors, mail carriers, or delivery workers
• Violations of local leash laws or containment requirements

This history proves crucial for establishing strict liability under the one-bite rule.

Avoid Social Media Posts

Do not post about the incident on social media or discuss the case publicly. Insurance companies and defense attorneys routinely monitor social media accounts and will use your posts to minimize or deny your claim.

Consult an Attorney Promptly

Contact The Porter Law Group as soon as possible. The three-year statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits in New York may seem like a long time, but critical evidence such as surveillance footage, witness memories, and animal control records can disappear quickly. Early legal involvement protects your rights and maximizes your potential recovery.

New York Dog Bite Liability

New York operates under a mixed liability system that has been significantly expanded following the 2025 Flanders v. Goodfellow decision. Bullmastiff bite victims now have multiple pathways to pursue compensation, even when the dog has no prior history of aggression.

Three Legal Theories of Liability

1. Strict Liability for Medical Costs Under the Dangerous Dog Statute

New York Agriculture & Markets Law § 123 imposes strict liability on the owner of a dog that has been officially declared "dangerous" by authorities, making the owner automatically responsible for all medical and veterinary costs resulting from a bite or attack, regardless of whether the owner took precautions or acted negligently.

A dog is considered "dangerous" if it:

• Attacks a person, companion animal, farm animal, or domestic animal without justification, causing physical injury or death
• Behaves in a way that a reasonable person would perceive as posing a serious and unjustified imminent threat of serious physical injury or death

However, strict liability under this statute is limited to medical costs only. To recover additional damages such as pain and suffering, lost wages, scarring, or emotional distress, victims must prove either negligence or the owner's knowledge of vicious propensities.

2. Strict Liability Based on Vicious Propensities (The One-Bite Rule)

Under New York's traditional one-bite rule, a dog owner can be held strictly liable for all damages if the victim proves that the dog had "vicious propensities" and that the owner knew or should have known about those propensities.

Contrary to popular belief, the one-bite rule does not mean every dog literally gets one free bite before liability attaches. Evidence of vicious propensities can include:

• Prior bites or attacks on people or animals
• Growling, snapping, or baring teeth at people
• Lunging at strangers, even while leashed
• Chasing or threatening people, cyclists, or joggers
• Jumping aggressively on people with enough force to knock them down
• Excessive barking accompanied by threatening body language
• Prior complaints filed with animal control, landlords, or building management

The owner's awareness of these dangerous tendencies is critical. If it can be proven that the owner knew or should have known about the dog's aggressive nature, strict liability attaches for all damages, including pain and suffering, lost wages, and permanent disfigurement.

3. Negligence Claims (NEW as of April 2025)

The landmark Flanders v. Goodfellow decision allows victims to pursue ordinary negligence claims against dog owners, even if the dog had no prior history of aggression or biting. This decision rejected decades of restrictive precedent that left many first-bite victims without legal recourse.

Under the new negligence standard, the critical question has shifted from "Did the owner know the dog was dangerous?" to "Did the owner fail to use reasonable care to prevent the bite?"

Courts now examine whether the dog owner acted reasonably under the circumstances by considering:

• Whether the dog was properly leashed or restrained
• Whether fencing or enclosures were adequate and well-maintained
• Whether the owner violated local leash laws
• The owner's response to any emerging signs of aggression
• The setting in which the incident occurred (public space, private property, around children)
• Whether the owner took reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable harm

This negligence pathway is particularly important for Bullmastiff attacks because the breed's massive size (110-150 pounds), powerful bite force (250-300 PSI), and protective instincts mean that even momentary lapses in control can result in catastrophic injuries. An owner who fails to use a sturdy leash, maintain secure fencing, or properly supervise a Bullmastiff around strangers may face liability even if the dog never bit anyone before.

Victims Can Pursue Multiple Claims Simultaneously

Importantly, Bullmastiff bite victims in New York can bring both strict liability (based on vicious propensities) and negligence claims as alternative legal theories in the same case. This dual approach significantly increases the likelihood of establishing liability and recovering full compensation.

Compensation Available for Bullmastiff Bite Victims

Victims of Bullmastiff attacks may recover both economic and non-economic damages:

Economic Damages:

• Emergency medical care and hospitalization ($10,000-$50,000+)
• Surgical procedures including wound debridement, tendon repair, nerve repair, and bone reconstruction ($5,000-$100,000+)
• Reconstructive surgery for facial injuries and scarring ($15,000-$100,000+ depending on complexity)
• Scar revision procedures over multiple years ($2,000-$15,000 per treatment)
• Physical and occupational therapy ($3,000-$15,000)
• Infection treatment including antibiotics and wound care
• Psychological counseling for PTSD and trauma
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Out-of-pocket expenses for medications, travel, and home care

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering from the attack and ongoing recovery
• Permanent scarring and disfigurement (particularly valuable for facial injuries)
• Emotional distress, PTSD, anxiety, and depression
• Loss of enjoyment of life and social withdrawal
• Loss of consortium for family members

New York leads the nation with an average dog bite claim cost of $110,488 in 2024. Notable settlements involving large breeds like Bullmastiffs demonstrate the substantial compensation available. A record-setting settlement of $1.12 million was reached in Illinois after a 120-pound male Bullmastiff attacked a 15-year-old boy, causing punctures and lacerations requiring hospitalization and resulting in significant psychological trauma.

What You Should Know About Bullmastiffs

History of the Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff is a breed with a rich history, originally developed in England during the 19th century. These dogs were bred by gamekeepers to guard estates and assist in tracking down poachers. The breed was created by crossing Bulldogs with Mastiffs to produce a dog that combined the Bulldog's courage and tenacity with the Mastiff's size and strength.

Known for their bravery and loyalty, Bullmastiffs have been used in various roles, including as guard dogs, estate protectors, and family companions. Understanding the breed's history is crucial in comprehending their behavior and potential for aggression, as their protective instincts were deliberately bred into the line for centuries.

Characteristics of Bullmastiff

Size and Build: Bullmastiffs are large, powerful dogs known for their muscular build. Adult male Bullmastiffs typically weigh between 110-150 pounds, with some individuals reaching 150 pounds or more. They stand 24-27 inches tall at the shoulder. Their substantial mass combined with protective instincts bred for guarding makes them potentially dangerous when not properly trained, socialized, or when obtained from poor breeding lines.

Bite Force: Bullmastiffs possess a bite force estimated between 250-300 PSI. Their shorter muzzle creates better leverage, increasing pressure at the bite point. This places them among the stronger biters in the canine world. The combination of bite force and massive body weight creates particularly devastating crushing injuries that can break bones, damage nerves, and destroy soft tissue.

Personality: They are generally brave, loyal, and protective, but can be aggressive if not properly trained or socialized. Bullmastiffs form strong bonds with their families and are naturally suspicious of strangers due to their guarding heritage.

Training Needs: Early and consistent training is essential to manage their strong protective instincts. Without proper training, their natural guarding behavior can escalate into dangerous aggression toward unfamiliar people or animals.

Interaction with People: While they can be gentle with family, Bullmastiffs may react aggressively to strangers or perceived threats. Their protective nature means they may interpret innocent actions (such as sudden movements, raised voices, or approaching their owner) as threatening, particularly if not properly socialized.

Their Temperament

Bullmastiffs are known for their strong protective instinct, making them excellent guard dogs. However, this same protective drive can result in serious attacks when the dog perceives a threat, real or imagined.

Key Temperament Traits:

• Typically affectionate and loyal to their families
• Wary of strangers, requiring proper socialization to prevent aggressive tendencies
• Strong territorial instincts that can lead to defensive aggression on their property
• Tendency to "hold" rather than repeatedly bite, which can result in prolonged crushing injuries
• Less vocal than many guard breeds, often attacking without warning growls or barks

Socialization Requirements: Socialization is essential from an early age to ensure Bullmastiffs are well-behaved and manageable. Proper exposure to various people, animals, environments, and situations during puppyhood (8-16 weeks) helps prevent fear-based aggression later in life.

Management Challenges: Due to their size and strength, even well-trained Bullmastiffs require constant supervision and control. An adult Bullmastiff weighing 120-150 pounds can easily overpower most adults if the dog decides to pull, lunge, or attack.

Do Bullmastiff Dogs Have Aggression Problems?

While Bullmastiffs are not inherently aggressive, their size, protective nature, and powerful bite force can lead to severe injuries when aggressive behavior occurs. Proper training and early socialization play crucial roles in shaping their behavior, but even well-socialized Bullmastiffs can react aggressively under certain circumstances.

Factors Contributing to Aggression:

• Lack of proper socialization during critical developmental periods
• Inadequate or inconsistent training
• Poor breeding focusing on size and appearance over temperament
• Past abuse or neglect
• Territorial behavior on the owner's property
• Fear-based reactions to unfamiliar people or situations
• Pain or illness causing defensive responses
• Improper containment or restraint leading to escapes

Attacks on Humans

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur in the United States each year. More than 800,000 of these bites require medical attention due to their severity. Approximately 337,000 emergency department visits occur annually for dog bites.

National Context:

• New York ranks 4th nationally with 900 reported dog bite claims in 2023
• The average cost per claim in New York reached $110,488 in 2024, the highest in the nation
• Settlement values typically range from $5,000 for minor injuries to over $200,000 in serious cases

New York City Statistics: Between 2015 and 2023, New York City's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene documented 29,992 self-reported dog bite incidents, an average of 3,332 bites per year. Dog bite injury rates increased 14% between 2018 and 2023.

Bullmastiff-Specific Statistics: Specifically, Mastiffs, a category that includes Bullmastiffs, have been involved in 28 documented attacks resulting in bodily harm with 5 deaths according to 2021 U.S. statistics. National fatality data shows Mastiff/Bullmastiff breeds accounted for 14 deaths (3.2% of all dog bite fatalities) and 3.2% of attacks when examining longer-term trends.

Although they do not appear prominently on Preventive Dog Bite Lists (PDD), their great strength, powerful bite force, and massive body weight can be significant factors in serious incidents. Even if an attack is not intended, the force of a bite from such a large and powerful dog can lead to catastrophic outcomes.

Notable Case: A record-setting settlement of $1.12 million was reached in Illinois in 2013 after a 120-pound male Bullmastiff named Kong attacked a 15-year-old boy riding a bicycle. The attack lasted approximately 10 minutes, during which the dog refused to let go. The victim sustained punctures and lacerations to his scalp, shoulder, right arm, and buttocks, requiring hospitalization for a week and resulting in significant psychological trauma. The dog had a documented history of violence with one previous bite and eight animal control reports.

What are the Different Types of Dog Bites?

Dog bite injuries from Bullmastiffs can vary significantly in severity, but due to the breed's size and 250-300 PSI bite force, even "minor" injuries often require extensive medical treatment. Understanding the types of injuries helps victims and medical professionals assess the seriousness of the attack and determine appropriate treatment.

Nips and Scratches: Minor injuries that may not break the skin but can still transmit bacteria. Even seemingly minor scratches from a dog's teeth or claws qualify as legally compensable injuries under New York law, particularly if the dog is a carrier of rabies or another zoonotic disease. Victims should seek immediate medical evaluation to rule out infection and document the injury.

Puncture Wounds: The most common dog bite injury (47% of cases), puncture wounds occur when teeth penetrate deeply into the skin. Bullmastiffs with their 250-300 PSI bite force can drive teeth deep into flesh, creating wounds that risk serious infection despite small surface appearance. These wounds may look minor but can damage tissue, muscles, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels below the surface.

Lacerations: Accounting for 36% of dog bite injuries, lacerations are tears in the skin that can be deep enough to damage muscles, blood vessels, and nerves. Bullmastiffs often cause extensive lacerations when they shake their heads while biting, creating tearing injuries beyond initial puncture sites. These injuries are among the most visible and disfiguring, frequently resulting in permanent scarring.

Rabies and Other Infections: Bites can transmit diseases, making medical attention crucial. Infection rates for dog bites range from 5-25%, with higher rates in deep wounds, hand injuries (18-36%), and those involving marked tissue destruction. On average, a dog bite wound contains 2-5 different species of bacteria. If left untreated, infections can lead to cellulitis, sepsis, osteomyelitis, tetanus, and rabies.

Crushing Injuries from Bullmastiff Bites

Crushing injuries represent one of the most serious consequences of Bullmastiff attacks due to their powerful jaw strength, substantial bite force (250-300 PSI), and massive body weight. These injuries are particularly devastating and often require extensive surgical intervention, prolonged hospitalization, and may result in permanent disability.

Mechanism of Crushing Injuries

When a Bullmastiff bites with its full force, the shorter muzzle creates better leverage that increases pressure at the bite point. Dog bites create crushing wounds through the compression of tissues, blood vessels, and bones, leading to significant pain, swelling, tissue damage, and impaired function. The rounded teeth and strong jaws create immense pressure that can:

• Break or fracture bones, particularly in children whose bones are less dense
• Crush smaller bones in hands, feet, and facial structures
• Damage multiple tissue layers simultaneously, requiring emergency medical treatment
• Cause internal bleeding and vascular damage from tissue compression
• Result in nerve damage through crushing or severing of nerve pathways
• Lead to compartment syndrome from tissue compression and swelling

Clinical Presentation

Crushing injuries from Bullmastiff bites often present with:

• Deep tissue damage extending far beyond the visible wound
• Massive swelling and bruising around the bite site
• Loss of function in affected limbs or body parts
• Bone fractures requiring open reduction with internal fixation
• Compartment syndrome requiring emergency fasciotomy
• Visible deformity of the affected area

Medical literature documents that crushing wounds from powerful dog bites can cause the underlying skin to tear and interfere with supporting blood supply even when the superficial skin appears intact. This creates complex treatment challenges requiring specialized surgical intervention.

Long-Term Complications

Crushing injuries frequently result in:

• Permanent nerve damage causing chronic pain, numbness, or paralysis
• Loss of fine motor skills or grip strength in affected hands
• Chronic pain requiring ongoing pain management
• Permanent disability affecting work capacity and daily activities
• Need for multiple reconstructive surgeries over several years
• Psychological trauma from permanent physical limitations

Scarring and Disfigurement from Bullmastiff Bites

Scarring from Bullmastiff bites presents both medical and psychological challenges, particularly when facial injuries occur. Dog bite scars can be permanent, altering appearance and leading to significant self-consciousness, embarrassment, and emotional distress.

Scarring Statistics

Studies show that 60-67% of dog bite patients develop unfavorable scarring after surgical repair. Hypertrophic scarring is the most common complication following dog bite surgery, occurring in 4.3% of injuries. The presence of infection and tissue loss is significantly related to unfavorable scarring outcomes.

Factors Affecting Scar Severity

Location: Scars on the face and neck result in higher compensation because they are significantly more visible and have greater impact on self-esteem, social interactions, and quality of life. Facial dog bites in children are particularly concerning because scars on growing children often require multiple future surgeries as the tissue develops.

Infection: All patients who developed unfavorable scarring after surgical repair had developed wound infections during their post-repair course, likely leading to suboptimal healing and scar formation. The infection rate for Bullmastiff bites is elevated due to the depth and crushing nature of the wounds.

Tissue Loss: Patients who developed unfavorable scarring after operating room repair more often had tissue loss rather than infection as the cause. Avulsion injuries, where skin is ripped or torn away, commonly occur during Bullmastiff attacks when the dog shakes its head while biting. These injuries frequently require skin grafts and reconstructive surgery.

Psychological Impact: Visible scarring can worsen psychological distress, contributing to anxiety, low self-esteem, social withdrawal, depression, and avoidance of social situations. Many victims, particularly children and young adults, suffer long-term emotional trauma that requires psychological counseling.

Reconstructive Surgery Requirements

Reconstructive surgery following Bullmastiff bites represents a significant medical and financial burden, often requiring multiple procedures over several years.

Frequency and Scope

In 2023, approximately 19,201 people underwent reconstructive surgery after serious dog bite injuries in the United States. About 27,000 of the 4.5 million people bitten by dogs every year need reconstructive surgery. Studies show that 75.5% of patients sustaining facial dog bites underwent surgical intervention in the operating room for proper wound repair.

Types of Reconstructive Procedures

Facial Reconstruction: The most complex and expensive reconstructive procedures involve facial injuries. Analysis reveals:

• 75.5% of facial dog bite patients required surgical intervention in the operating room
• 17% required procedures beyond simple debridement and primary closure
• Cases required local advancement flaps, full thickness skin grafts, and split skin grafts
• 19.1% of patients required revision surgery
• Facial reconstruction costs range from $15,000 to $100,000+ depending on complexity

Common Surgical Techniques:

• Local or advancement flaps for tissue replacement
• Full thickness skin grafts for larger defects
• Split skin grafts for extensive wounds
• Tendon repairs for damaged tendons in hands and extremities
• Nerve repairs using specialized microsurgical techniques
• Bone reconstruction involving metal plates, screws, or bone grafts for crushed or fractured bones

Multiple Procedure Timelines

Reconstructive surgery often requires multiple procedures over several years, with complications arising that require additional treatment. Cases involving children are particularly complex because facial scars on growing children require multiple future surgeries as the child develops. Some patients require ongoing procedures throughout their lifetime.

Costs of Reconstructive Surgery

The financial burden is substantial:

• Facial reconstruction: $15,000-$100,000+ depending on complexity
• Hand and extremity reconstruction: $8,000-$50,000 per procedure
• Nerve repair surgery: $10,000-$40,000 with specialized microsurgical techniques
• Scar revision procedures: $2,000-$15,000 per treatment
• Multiple procedure sequences: $30,000-$200,000+ over several years
• Complete facial reconstruction: Hundreds of thousands of dollars

Outcomes and Complications

Studies show:

• 7.8% of patients suffered from reported postoperative complications
• Hypertrophic scarring occurred in 4.3% of injuries
• Postoperative infections noted in 0.8% of patients
• Persistent neurological deficits and numbness in 0.8% of patients
• Long-term functional or aesthetic disability rate approximately 4%

FAQ

Can I sue for a Bullmastiff bite in NY if the owner says the dog was just "playing"?

Yes, you can absolutely sue for a Bullmastiff bite in New York even if the owner claims the dog was just playing. The owner's characterization of the dog's behavior as "playful" does not prevent you from pursuing legal action or recovering compensation for your injuries.

Why the Owner's Claims Don't Bar Legal Action

Under New York's expanded dog bite liability framework, particularly following the 2025 Flanders v. Goodfellow decision, victims can establish liability through multiple pathways that do not depend on the owner's interpretation of the dog's intent:

Negligence Standard: You can pursue a negligence claim by proving the owner failed to exercise reasonable care in controlling the dog, regardless of whether the dog was "playing" or attacking. A Bullmastiff weighing 110-150 pounds with a 250-300 PSI bite force can cause catastrophic injuries even during playful behavior if the owner fails to maintain proper control. Courts examine whether the owner used appropriate restraints, maintained adequate fencing, supervised the dog around strangers, and took reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable harm.

Strict Liability for Dangerous Propensities: If you can prove the dog had a known tendency to jump on people, knock people down, or engage in rough play that could cause injury, the owner can be held strictly liable for all damages, even if the behavior was "playful." New York case law has established that even "friendly, happy dogs who love people" can create liability for injuries resulting from jumping or rough play if the dog had a known tendency to engage in such behavior.

Objective Injury Assessment: Courts focus on the actual harm caused, not the dog's subjective intent or the owner's interpretation. A Bullmastiff's "playful" jumping, mouthing, or roughhousing can cause broken bones, crushing injuries, deep lacerations, permanent scarring, and psychological trauma. These are real, compensable injuries regardless of whether the dog intended harm.

Owner Knowledge and Negligence: If the owner knew the Bullmastiff engaged in rough play but failed to warn you, restrain the dog, or prevent the encounter, the owner may be liable for negligence. The massive size difference between a 120-150 pound Bullmastiff and most humans means that playful behavior from the dog's perspective can be devastating from the victim's perspective.

Comparative Examples

New York courts have held owners liable for:

• Knockdown injuries when dogs jumped on people in a friendly manner
• Injuries from dogs pulling on leashes and causing falls
• "Playful" behavior that resulted in broken bones or other serious harm

The key is not whether the dog was being playful, but whether the owner exercised reasonable care to prevent foreseeable injuries given the dog's size, strength, and behavior.

What You Should Do

If a Bullmastiff injured you and the owner claims the dog was just playing:

• Seek immediate medical attention and document all injuries thoroughly
• Report the incident to authorities within required timeframes
• Gather witness statements about the dog's behavior and the owner's control (or lack thereof)
• Document any prior incidents or complaints involving the same dog
• Contact The Porter Law Group promptly to evaluate your case

The owner's attempt to characterize the attack as "play" may actually strengthen your case by demonstrating the owner's failure to recognize the danger posed by the dog's behavior and size. Do not let the owner's claims discourage you from pursuing the compensation you deserve.

What is the average settlement for a large-breed dog attack in New York?

The average settlement for a large-breed dog attack in New York is substantially higher than for attacks by smaller breeds, reflecting the severity of injuries that powerful dogs like Bullmastiffs can cause. New York leads the nation with an average dog bite claim cost of $110,488 in 2024, the highest in the United States.

Settlement Ranges in New York

Settlement values for large-breed dog attacks typically range from:

• $5,000-$20,000: Minor injuries with minimal scarring, brief medical treatment, and full recovery
• $20,000-$50,000: Moderate injuries requiring stitches, some scarring, infection treatment, and several weeks of recovery
• $50,000-$100,000: Serious injuries involving facial lacerations, nerve damage, or significant scarring requiring reconstructive surgery
• $100,000-$200,000+: Severe injuries with permanent disfigurement, multiple surgeries, psychological trauma, or long-term disability

Notable Settlements Involving Large Breeds

Real settlements demonstrate the substantial compensation available for large-breed attacks:

• $1.12 million: Bullmastiff attack in Illinois (record settlement) involving a 15-year-old boy with punctures, lacerations, week-long hospitalization, and psychological trauma
• $305,000: Mastiff facial bite attack with $23,000 in medical charges
• $500,000: Two pit bull attack causing broken hip and femur
• $250,000: Jogger attacked by multiple dogs with nerve damage and PTSD
• $200,000: Child with deep facial lacerations requiring reconstructive surgery

Factors Increasing Settlement Value

Large-breed dog attacks often result in higher settlements because:

Severity of Injuries: Powerful breeds like Bullmastiffs (250-300 PSI bite force, 110-150 pounds) cause more severe injuries than smaller dogs, including crushing injuries, bone fractures, nerve damage, and extensive tissue destruction. Studies show 75.5% of facial dog bite patients require surgical intervention in the operating room.

Permanent Scarring and Disfigurement: Visible scars, particularly on the face and neck, result in significantly higher compensation due to lifelong impact on appearance, self-esteem, and social interactions. Facial reconstruction costs range from $15,000 to $100,000+ and often requires multiple procedures over several years.

Medical Expenses: Large-breed attacks typically generate higher medical costs, including:

• Emergency room visits and hospitalization ($10,000-$50,000+)
• Surgical procedures ($5,000-$100,000+)
• Reconstructive surgery ($15,000-$100,000+ depending on complexity)
• Physical and occupational therapy ($3,000-$15,000)
• Psychological counseling for PTSD

Psychological Trauma: Victims of large-breed attacks frequently develop PTSD, anxiety, depression, and permanent fear of dogs. Studies show PTSD is one of the most frequently reported psychological consequences in dog bite victims, leading to long-term functional impairment.

Loss of Earning Capacity: Severe injuries from large breeds may prevent victims from returning to their previous employment or working at full capacity, leading to substantial compensation for lost future earnings.

Factors Decreasing Settlement Value

Settlements may be lower when:

• Victim provoked the dog or was trespassing
• Shared fault under New York's comparative negligence rules
• Limited or no permanent scarring
• Insufficient documentation of injuries and damages
• Low available insurance coverage

Contact The Porter Law Group at 833-PORTER9 for a free consultation to evaluate your specific case and potential settlement value.

Is a Bullmastiff considered a "dangerous dog" automatically in NYC?

No, Bullmastiffs are not automatically considered "dangerous dogs" in New York City or anywhere in New York State. Unlike some jurisdictions that have breed-specific legislation banning or restricting certain breeds, New York does not maintain a list of breeds that are automatically classified as dangerous.

How Dogs Become "Dangerous" in New York

Under New York Agriculture & Markets Law § 108(24), a dog becomes legally "dangerous" only through an official adjudication process based on the individual dog's behavior, not its breed. The dangerous dog designation requires clear and convincing evidence that the dog either:

Attacked Without Justification: The dog attacked a person, companion animal, farm animal, or domestic animal without justification, causing physical injury or death.

Threatening Behavior: The dog behaved in a manner that a reasonable person would believe poses a serious and unjustified imminent threat of serious physical injury or death to people or animals.

Formal Legal Process: The dangerous dog determination requires a judicial hearing conducted within five days of filing a complaint, with at least two days' notice to the owner. At this hearing, authorities must present clear and convincing evidence that the dog meets the dangerous dog criteria. The owner has the right to defend against the designation and can appeal the determination within 30 days.

Why Breed-Neutral Law Matters

New York's breed-neutral approach means:

• A Bullmastiff with no history of aggression is not considered dangerous simply because of its breed
• A Bullmastiff that attacks or threatens someone can be designated as dangerous through the legal process
• Insurance companies cannot refuse coverage or charge higher premiums based solely on breed (New York Insurance Law § 3421 prohibits breed discrimination)
• Each dog is evaluated individually based on its behavior and history

Consequences of Dangerous Dog Designation

Once a dog receives an official dangerous dog designation, significant legal consequences follow:

Strict Liability for Medical Costs: The owner becomes automatically liable for all medical expenses resulting from future attacks, regardless of precautions taken.

Mandatory Control Measures: Courts may order the dog to be neutered or spayed, microchipped, undergo behavioral evaluation and training, be kept in secure confinement, and be leashed and muzzled in public.

Enhanced Criminal Penalties: If a dangerous dog causes serious injury, the owner may face criminal charges including fines up to $3,000 and imprisonment up to 90 days. If the dog kills someone, the owner faces Class A misdemeanor charges.

Potential Euthanasia: In extreme cases, if a dangerous dog has caused serious injury or death, the court may order humane euthanasia or permanent confinement.

Practical Implications for Bullmastiff Bites

While Bullmastiffs are not automatically dangerous, their size (110-150 pounds), powerful bite force (250-300 PSI), and protective breeding create significant liability risks for owners:

Higher Injury Severity: Even a single Bullmastiff attack often causes severe injuries requiring hospitalization, surgery, and reconstructive procedures, making it easier to meet the threshold for dangerous dog designation.

Evidence of Prior Behavior: If your Bullmastiff attack case can demonstrate the dog had prior complaints, aggressive incidents, or threatening behavior, this strengthens both the dangerous dog petition and your civil liability claim.

Owner's Legal Exposure: Bullmastiff owners face substantial legal exposure under all three liability theories (dangerous dog strict liability, one-bite rule, and negligence), particularly if the dog injures someone on the owner's property or while improperly restrained.

Insurance Coverage: Because New York prohibits breed-based insurance discrimination, Bullmastiff owners can typically obtain homeowner's insurance coverage. However, once a dog receives a dangerous designation, insurance companies may cancel coverage or significantly increase premiums.

How This Affects Your Case

If you were attacked by a Bullmastiff in New York:

• You can pursue legal action regardless of whether the dog has a dangerous designation
• You can petition authorities to have the dog designated as dangerous based on the attack
• A dangerous designation strengthens your civil claim by establishing the dog's dangerous nature
• You can pursue negligence claims even if the dog was never officially designated as dangerous

Contact a Bullmastiff Dog Bite Injury Attorney

If you or your loved ones have experienced a traumatic incident involving a Bullmastiff dog bite in New York, it's crucial to seek the right legal support. At The Porter Law Group, we specialize in handling cases specifically related to dog bite injuries, including those involving Bullmastiffs. Our experienced attorneys understand the unique challenges and legal nuances of these cases, particularly the severe crushing injuries, extensive scarring, and long-term disability that Bullmastiff attacks often cause.

Following the 2025 Flanders v. Goodfellow decision, New York victims have expanded legal rights to pursue compensation through negligence claims even when dogs have no prior bite history. We understand both the traditional strict liability framework and the new negligence standard, giving us multiple strategic paths to secure compensation for your injuries.

Contact The Porter Law Group at 833-PORTER9 or email us at info@porterlawteam.com. Our team is dedicated to supporting and representing you in your time of need.