Missouri Dog Law
Liability Statute
The owner or possessor of any dog that bites, without provocation, any person while he or she is on public property or lawfully on private property, including the property of the owner or possessor of the dog, is strictly liable for damages suffered by persons bitten — regardless of the former viciousness of the dog or the owner’s knowledge of viciousness. The owner is subject to a fine of up to $1,000 as well. The comparative fault of the damaged party may reduce his or her award.
Common Law Liability
In Missouri, a person can recover damages for personal injuries against a dog owner if the plaintiff can prove that the owner knew, or should have know, of the dog’s vicious propensities, and that the owner failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the harm, so long as the attack occurred while the victim was on public property or lawfully on private property.
Dangerous Dog Statute
Missouri does not have a Dangerous Dog Statute.
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