In New Jersey, the conversation about dangerous dog breeds often comes back to one name: the American Pit Bull Terrier. While dog lovers may debate the issue fiercely, data and incident reports place this breed at the top of the list for bite-related injuries in the Garden State.
A Breed Tied to Most Severe Attacks
Across the United States, the American Pit Bull Terrier is often linked with the highest number of severe and even fatal attacks. Between 2005 and 2019, pit bulls were reportedly responsible for about 66% of all fatal dog attacks nationwide, despite making up a much smaller portion of the overall dog population. This alarming statistic has influenced public opinion and local legislation in several states, including New Jersey.
In New Jersey specifically, personal injury law firms and public safety data point to pit bulls as a major contributor to serious bite incidents. According to New Jersey-based legal sources like Lependorf & Silverstein, LLP, pit bulls, along with German Shepherds and Rottweilers, frequently appear in severe injury cases involving dog attacks.
What Makes Them High-Risk?
The risk associated with pit bulls is not simply a matter of numbers. Experts cite several reasons that make this breed potentially more dangerous in attack scenarios:
- Bite Strength: Pit bulls have a powerful jaw structure and bite force that can cause extensive damage during an attack.
- Tenacity: They are known for holding on and continuing to bite once they engage, which can escalate the severity of injuries.
- Muscular Build: Their strength and agility make it harder to control them once an incident begins.
While it’s true that many pit bulls are gentle and loving when trained and cared for properly, their physical capabilities and defensive instincts can become dangerous in the wrong circumstances.
No Statewide Ban—But Local Rules Vary
New Jersey has not adopted a statewide ban on pit bulls or any specific breed. However, some municipalities have created breed-specific ordinances. These local laws may require pit bull owners to follow strict regulations, including mandatory muzzling in public, higher insurance requirements, or special licensing.
This regulatory approach falls in line with New Jersey’s strict liability statute for dog owners. Under New Jersey law, a dog owner is liable if their pet bites someone—regardless of whether the dog has shown aggressive behavior in the past. This means all dog owners, especially those with breeds considered high-risk, must remain cautious and responsible at all times.
Details about New Jersey’s liability laws can be found on the official state legislature’s site here:
https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/
Pit Bulls and Public Perception
Pit bulls often face stigma, and animal advocates argue that poor training, neglect, and mistreatment—not genetics—are the root causes of aggressive behavior. They point out that responsible ownership, socialization, and training can lead to well-behaved pit bulls that are no more dangerous than other breeds.
Nevertheless, insurance companies and legal experts continue to treat pit bulls as a liability concern. In some cases, homeowners’ insurance policies exclude coverage for dog bites caused by this breed.
A Call for Responsibility
The debate over whether pit bulls are inherently dangerous continues, but the legal and safety data in New Jersey paint a clear picture: pit bulls are involved in more than their share of serious bite cases. This doesn’t mean they can’t be good pets—it means they require thoughtful, responsible ownership.