Understanding the Levels of Dog Bites: A Comprehensive Guide for Illinois Dog Bite Victims

Dog bites can range from minor incidents to severe injuries that have lasting consequences. To assess these varying degrees of severity, the Dr. Ian Dunbar Dog Bite Scale was developed. This scale helps both victims and professionals—such as insurance adjusters, veterinarians, and attorneys—understand the level of aggression and injury involved in a dog bite incident. In Illinois, understanding the severity of a dog bite is crucial, especially for determining medical treatment and legal recourse.

At John J. Malm & Associates, with offices in Naperville and St. Charles, our Illinois dog bite attorneys have over 30 years of experience helping dog bite victims recover compensation. Our DuPage County dog attack firm works closely with clients to ensure that the extent of the injury is properly documented and that insurance companies do not downplay the seriousness of the attack. This blog will walk you through the levels of dog bites, explain how the Dunbar Scale works, and provide guidance on your legal rights in Illinois.

The Development of the Dr. Ian Dunbar Dog Bite Scale

The Dr. Ian Dunbar Dog Bite Scale was created by Dr. Ian Dunbar, a veterinary behaviorist, to offer a standardized method for evaluating dog bites. Prior to its development, there was no widely accepted classification for dog bites, which made it difficult to assess the risk and severity of attacks consistently. The Dunbar Scale categorizes dog bites into six distinct levels, based on the severity of the injury and the behavior leading up to the bite. It has become an important tool in fields ranging from veterinary science to legal proceedings and insurance claims.

The Dunbar Scale is widely used not only by veterinarians and animal behaviorists but also by insurance companies when evaluating claims for dog bite injuries. Insurers often rely on this scale to determine the compensation amount for victims, depending on the level of severity of the bite. This is particularly important when negotiating settlements, as insurance companies may try to downplay the extent of the injury to minimize payouts.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we are experienced in working with this scale to accurately assess the severity of your injury and ensure that insurance companies provide fair compensation. Whether the bite results in a minor wound or a catastrophic injury, understanding the scale’s categories can help you better understand the legal process and maximize your recovery.

Level 1: Aggressive Behavior Without Skin Contact

At Level 1, the dog demonstrates aggressive behavior—such as growling or snapping—but does not make physical contact with the victim’s skin. While no physical injury occurs, this type of behavior can still cause significant emotional distress, especially if the victim is a child or someone already afraid of dogs. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), aggressive behavior without contact is a risk factor for future bites, and such incidents should be documented.

Level 2: Contact Without Skin Puncture

In a Level 2 bite, the dog’s teeth make contact with the skin, but no puncture occurs. This can result in bruising or minor abrasions, but the injuries are typically not serious. However, even a Level 2 bite indicates that the dog is not simply displaying fear but is showing a tendency toward aggressive behavior. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), even minor bites and scratches can introduce harmful bacteria, which may lead to infection if not treated properly. Victims of Level 2 bites should seek medical attention and document the incident.

Level 3: Single Bite with Shallow Punctures

A Level 3 bite involves a single bite that causes shallow puncture wounds, typically less than half the length of the dog’s canine teeth. These bites can cause infections and should be treated immediately. The CDC reports that nearly 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the U.S., and a significant portion of these bites fall into this category. Illinois law holds dog owners strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before. At John J. Malm & Associates, we have represented numerous clients with Level 3 bites, helping them recover compensation for medical expenses and emotional distress.

Level 4: Multiple Bites with Deep Punctures

At Level 4, the dog delivers multiple bites with deep punctures. These bites often cause serious tissue damage and may require stitches or even surgery. Victims of Level 4 bites typically experience not only physical pain but also emotional trauma, as these attacks are more violent and aggressive in nature. Mayo Clinic states that deep puncture wounds can lead to nerve damage and scarring, which may have long-term consequences. In Illinois, dog owners are held accountable for such attacks under the Illinois Animal Control Act, which ensures that victims can seek compensation for their injuries.

Level 5: Multiple Bites with Severe Injury

Level 5 bites involve multiple, deep punctures that result in severe injury, including broken bones, nerve damage, or permanent disfigurement. Victims of Level 5 attacks often require extensive medical treatment, including reconstructive surgery. These cases are especially traumatic and can leave lasting emotional scars as well. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that severe dog bites can lead to long-term physical disabilities and psychological trauma. At John J. Malm & Associates, our top-rated Illinois dog bite attorneys have extensive experience helping clients who have suffered Level 5 injuries, securing substantial settlements to cover medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care.

Level 6: Fatal Injuries

Level 6 bites are fatal, resulting in the death of the victim. Although rare, these incidents are devastating for the victim’s family. According to Dogsbite.org, fatal dog attacks occur at an alarming rate, with 48 fatalities in 2019 alone in the U.S. Families who have lost a loved one due to a fatal dog attack can file a wrongful death claim against the dog owner. Our firm is dedicated to helping families secure justice and compensation in these tragic cases.

Legal Rights for Dog Bite Victims in Illinois

Illinois follows a strict liability rule when it comes to dog bites, meaning that dog owners are held responsible for injuries caused by their pets, even if the dog has no previous history of aggression. Under the Illinois Animal Control Act, victims are entitled to seek compensation for:

• Medical expenses: Including emergency care, surgeries, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost wages: Compensation for time off work due to the injury.
• Pain and suffering: Including physical pain and emotional distress.
• Disfigurement: For permanent scarring or loss of function due to the bite.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we have extensive experience handling dog bite cases in Naperville, St. Charles, and across Illinois. Our team works closely with medical professionals, investigators, and legal experts to build a strong case and ensure that victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, follow these steps to protect your health and legal rights:

1. Seek medical attention immediately: Even minor bites can lead to infections.
2. Document the incident: Take photos of the injury, gather witness statements, and report the bite to local authorities.
3. Contact a dog bite attorney: At John J. Malm & Associates, we can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive fair compensation.

Contact John J. Malm & Associates for Your Illinois Dog Bite Injury

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog bite in Illinois, contact the experienced Illinois dog bite attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates for a free consultation. With offices in Naperville and St. Charles, we are ready to assist dog bite victims throughout Illinois. Our team has the experience and dedication needed to help you recover the compensation you deserve. Let us guide you through the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.