Security dogs are commonly used across the UK to protect private property, construction sites, warehouses, and commercial premises. While they serve a useful role in crime prevention, what happens when an innocent person, such as a delivery driver, tradesperson, or passer-by gets bitten while going about lawful activities on an adjoining property?

If you’ve been bitten by a security dog while carrying out legitimate work or business, this blog will walk you through your rights, responsibilities, and what legal remedies are available under UK law.

Is the owner liable? Understanding the law

The key piece of legislation governing dog bites in the UK is the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, along with the Animals Act 1971.

1. Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 (as amended)

This Act primarily deals with criminal liability and states under Section 3(1) that:

“If a dog is dangerously out of control in any place… the owner and, if different, the person in charge of the dog at the time, is guilty of an offence.”

Importantly, a dog is considered “dangerously out of control” if there is a reasonable belief that it will injure someone, whether or not it actually does.

The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 was introduced to protect the public from dangerous dogs, especially those trained to be aggressive or used irresponsibly.

2. Animals Act 1971, Section 2(2)

Under this civil law, a dog owner can be liable for injuries caused by their animal if:

• The damage is of a kind the animal was likely to cause.
• The likelihood was due to characteristics not normally found in animals, except at certain times or under certain circumstances.
• The owner knew of those characteristics.

Security dogs are often trained to be aggressive in certain situations. This increases the chances of owner liability under this Act.

If a guard dog is kept on commercial premises, the business could be liable under:

The Occupiers Liability Act 1957 (injury to lawful visitors) and The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (if staff or the public are at risk).

Failing to control a dog, or not having proper warning signs or secure enclosures can amount to negligence.

Some recent court cases

In this case, the claimant was bitten by a dog while visiting the defendant's premises The claimant was delivering a parcel and the dog ran out and bit his leg. The court held that the owner was liable under the Animals Act, as the dog's aggressive behaviour was foreseeable and had occurred before. The business also failed to secure the dog, allowing the dog to escape free.

In another case, a security guard was convicted after his dog attacked a passer-by outside a secured site. The court stated that the handler had a duty to ensure the dog did not pose a risk to the public, even if the dog was performing its role. The owner had also failed to use a lead or muzzle, meaning the defendant was held liable.

Was your presence legal?

To claim compensation you must have been lawfully present on the adjoining property. This includes:

• Delivering mail or packages
• Performing utility work (e.g. water, gas, electric meter readings)
• Attending a neighbouring home or business
• Surveying or inspecting land
• Attending an event

Trespassers generally have fewer rights in these cases, although criminal charges can still be brought against the dog’s owner if the attack was particularly severe or reckless.

What should you do if bitten?

Seek medical attention immediately
Dog bites can lead to serious infections, especially from trained guard dogs with strong jaw force.

Report the incident
Notify the police and your local authority. Dangerous dogs should be logged and investigated.

Document everything
Take photos of your injuries, make note of the time, place, and circumstances. If there are witnesses, get their contact details.

Identify the dog and owner
Try to determine who owns or controls the dog. This is essential for legal proceedings.

Consult a solicitor
A personal injury lawyer with experience in animal claims can advise whether you have grounds to claim compensation.

Can you claim compensation?

Yes. If it can be shown that the dog owner or handler was negligent or breached their duty under the relevant laws, you may be entitled to claim damages for:

• Pain and suffering
• Medical costs
• Loss of earnings
• Emotional distress

Claims can be pursued through civil litigation and are often covered under the dog owner's public liability insurance, particularly for commercial or security firms.

Final thoughts

While security dogs are an important tool in property protection, their use comes with significant legal responsibility. If you’ve been bitten while acting lawfully near a property protected by these dogs, don’t assume you’re at fault or powerless.

You have legal rights and the law is on your side.

If you've experienced a dog bite incident and need guidance, contact us for advice. Our team specialise in animal liability law and will be happy to help. Contact Switalskis on 0800 138 0458 or use our online contact form to arrange your free consultation.