How is a "dangerous dog" defined under Texas law?

In Texas law, a "dangerous dog" is defined primarily as a dog that has caused serious injury or death to a person or has previously been deemed dangerous based on its behavior. This legal definition is crucial for identifying dogs that pose a threat to humans or other animals, ensuring that adequate measures can be taken to protect public safety.

This definition reflects a clear and specific criterion that focuses on documented incidents of harm rather than subjective assessments of behavior, such as aggression during play or excessive barking. These latter behaviors do not necessarily indicate danger in the same way that a documented attack does, which is why they are not included in the legal definition. By focusing on actual harm caused or prior classifications of danger, the law aims to provide a balanced approach to managing potentially aggressive dogs while safeguarding both the animals and the community.