What Does It Mean For A Dog To Be A Vicious Dog?

A vicious dog is one that has, without being provoked, bitten or attempted to bite a human being, chased, bitten, injured or killed any other domestic animal or livestock. If your dog is found to be a vicious dog, your county can restrain, kill, or quarantine your dog whether it is licensed or unlicensed.

If your dog, that has previously been found to be a vicious dog, bites another person, domesticated animal or livestock without being provoked, you, as the owner, may face misdemeanor criminal charges and even felony charges if your vicious dog causes severe injury or death to another human being. Also, your dog can be detained by animal control and possibly even killed.

Other Montana Pet Law FAQs

Q: What Is The Relevant Law In Montana That Governs Animals And Pets?
A: Montana State Statutes cover criminal matters and licensing requirements for pets and animals in the subsections contained within section 723 of the Montana … More
Q: Am I Legally Responsible If My Dog Bites A Human Being?
A: Yes. If, without provocation, your dog bites another person in a place where they lawfully have the right to be, such as any public property or private property which … More
Q: Am I Legally Responsible If My Dog Injures Or Kills My Neighbor's Cattle Or Other Livestock?
A: Yes. You may be liable to pay to the owner of the livestock damages for the injuries caused by your dog or the full value of the livestock if your dog kills any … More
Q: My Neighbor's Dog Has Repeatedly Chased And At Times Injured My Livestock. Can I Kill My Neighbor's Dog?
A: Yes. If you see your neighbor's dog harassing your livestock, by chasing them or worrying them, you are justified in killing the dog with no liability to your … More
Q: Can I Get In Trouble If My Dog Barks Too Much?
A: Yes. Your county has the power to regulate barking dogs. This means that if any law enforcement officer of your county finds that your dog is a nuisance because of its … More
Q: Does My Dog Need To Be Licensed?
A: Yes. It is unlawful to own or harbor a dog over the age of 5 months if it does not have a valid license issued by the county or municipality where the dog is kept. … More
Q: I Let My Dog Run Free And Do Not Keep Him/Her Restrained On My Property. Are There Any Legal Consequences That I Should Worry About?
A: It depends. If your dog is unlicensed and is running free any law enforcement officer can seize and then impound the animal. The dog can even be sold. It is unlawful … More
Q: Can I Be Punished If I Do Not Take Good Enough Care Of My Dog Or Other Animals?
A: Yes. Each county, city or town has the right to punish those who treat animals cruelly. Cruelty to animals can include failing to give them proper nourishment, … More
Q: I Want To Adopt A Pet From An Animal Shelter. Are There Any Restrictions?
A: Yes. Generally, you will only be allowed to adopt a pet that has been spayed or neutered. However, you will be allowed to adopt a pet that has not been spayed or … More
Q: Can I Set Up A Trust Or Will So That When I Die A Person Of My Choosing Will Receive Ownership Of My Pet?
A: Yes, it is perfectly fine to set up in a trust a legal means by which your pet will be transferred to the ownership of a chosen person who will take care of your pet … More