7 Common Types Of Dog Bite Injuries Explained

By Doug Standriff on June 3, 2025

Dog bites are more than just a painful nuisance. They can cause serious injuries that require medical treatment and, in some cases, lead to long-term complications. Whether the dog is a pet or a stray, being bitten can result in severe injuries that may require legal action. Let’s go through the common types of dog bite injuries, their severity, and what steps you can take if you’ve been bitten by a dog.

Puncture Wounds

Puncture wounds are the most common type of injury from a dog bite. These injuries occur when the dog’s teeth penetrate the skin deeply. The severity of the puncture depends on the size and strength of the dog, as well as the location of the bite.

In some cases, puncture wounds can be relatively mild and heal with minimal treatment. However, if the wound is deep or becomes infected, it can cause serious complications. Infections such as cellulitis or tetanus may arise, requiring medical attention and possibly antibiotics to prevent the infection from spreading.

Lacerations

Lacerations are cuts or tears in the skin that are caused by a dog’s teeth or claws. Depending on the force of the bite, these injuries can vary from small cuts to deep gashes. Lacerations typically bleed heavily and may require stitches or other medical procedures to promote healing.

In some cases, lacerations can lead to scarring, especially if the injury is not treated promptly. Scarring from dog bites can affect a person’s appearance and may result in permanent disfigurement, particularly if the bite occurred on the face or other visible areas of the body.

Fractures

Fractures are a more severe type of injury that can occur when a dog bite results in intense force being applied to bones, especially in cases where the victim is knocked over or falls. In addition to bites, dogs may bite and tug on limbs or hands, which can cause bone fractures or dislocations.

These injuries can be extremely painful and may require surgical intervention, such as setting the bones or inserting pins. Recovery from bone fractures often involves extensive rehabilitation, including physical therapy, which can take months.

Tendon and Ligament Damage

Dog bites that involve pulling, tugging, or intense pressure can also cause damage to tendons and ligaments. These are the tissues that connect muscles to bones and provide joint stability. Injury to tendons or ligaments can lead to a loss of functionality in the affected body part.

Tendon and ligament injuries typically require longer recovery periods, often involving rest, physical therapy, or surgery. Severe injuries to these tissues can result in permanent limitations on mobility or strength in the affected limb.

Infections and Sepsis

Dog bites carry a high risk of infection, which can lead to more severe consequences if left untreated. The bacteria found in a dog’s mouth can quickly invade a wound, causing local infections. The most common infection from a dog bite is Pasteurella multocida, which can result in pain, swelling, and fever.

In rare cases, if an infection is not treated, it can spread throughout the body and lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition. Signs of sepsis include fever, rapid heart rate, and difficulty breathing. Sepsis requires immediate medical attention, and the longer it goes untreated, the greater the risk of serious health complications.

Facial and Cosmetic Injuries

Facial dog bites are particularly concerning because they can result in permanent scarring or disfigurement. Dogs often target areas of the face, such as the mouth, eyes, or nose, especially during an attack. The delicate nature of facial tissues means that bites to the face often require specialized treatment to minimize long-term cosmetic damage.

Reconstructive surgery may be necessary for severe facial injuries, especially if the bite causes significant damage to the skin, muscles, or underlying bones. While surgery may improve the appearance, some scarring may remain, affecting the individual’s self-esteem and emotional well-being.

Psychological Impact

In addition to physical injuries, dog bites can have long-lasting psychological effects on the victim, particularly if the attack is severe or occurs in a traumatic way. Victims may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or a fear of dogs that persists long after the injury has healed.

Children are especially vulnerable to the psychological effects of dog attacks. Even a minor injury can result in a deep fear of dogs, affecting their ability to engage with pets or animals later in life. Therapy and counseling can help address the emotional trauma caused by dog bites.

Bitten by a Dog in Bergen County, NJ? Get the Compensation You Deserve

If you or someone you care about has suffered from a dog bite, Bergen Law is ready to support you. With over 30 years of experience, Douglas Standriff and Marissa Messinger, Esq. specialize in dog bite injury claims. Our team of dog bite lawyers in Bergen County is here to help you or your loved one receive fair compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and more. We’ll collect all relevant evidence, handle the intricacies of dog bite regulations, and work tirelessly to protect your rights.

Contact us for a free, confidential consultation today at 201-445-4555. Don’t wait. Take action now to secure the compensation you deserve.