Being bitten

[1000Sparks]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Wisconsin

I have a very large German Shepherd that is very good around people., but it very protective of me.

I'd like to know if I take her to the groomers and she bites them, am I responsible or is the groomer?

Thank you

 

[RRevak]

If your dog is protective enough of you that it bites then you need to teach that behavior out of your dog ASAP! You would be the one liable for the damages etc if your dogs bites the groomer....or anyone else for that matter.

 

[1000Sparks]

no no

I never said she bit anyone. She will stand between me and whoever I'm talking to...she hasn't shown any agression.

 

[stealth2]

So why are you concerned?

 

[1000Sparks]

curious

A groomer in town has to have 14 stitches because a very wonderful Shepherd and Black Lab bit her. Never bit anyone before. Owners said they never had such a loving passive dog.

That's why I'm asking.

 

[Just Blue]

A groomer in town has to have 14 stitches because a very wonderful Shepherd and Black Lab bit her. Never bit anyone before. Owners said they never had such a loving passive dog.

That's why I'm asking.

You need to muzzle the dog and warn the groomer. IF they decide to take you as a client, you should make sure there is a written agreement that they are aware of your dogs "protective" nature.

 

[tranquility]

Maybe, maybe not. Like the Fireman's rule, many courts have fashioned a similar rule for vets and groomers. While one cannot answer in the hypothetical, it is quite possible there will be a defense.

 

[CJane]

OP -- CALL THE GROOMER and ask what their policy is with this "type" of dog. They will likely require a muzzle.

I think my Mastiff would throw himself off a tall building before he bit someone, but he IS mouthy, and if I was taking him to the vet or the groomer, I would muzzle him. Mostly because he can fit the average human head in his mouth if he so chooses. That's a lot to fend off.

Muzzling your dog in stressful situations protects everyone. I will say, though, your dog could probably stand a LOT more socialization so it begins to understand that you don't always need protection. This sort of behavior CAN escalate quickly and unpleasantly.

 

[csi7]

As a owner of a german shepard who was quarantined for ten days for a bite, no further action taken by county, I will say, the dog never bit anyone prior to that bite and never bit anyone after that bite.
However, that single bite was enough to create a volatile situation for everyone.
The dog was protecting me, and stopped the person from hitting me in the face.
It does not change the fact that the dog bit someone.
Be proactive, especially since the dog displays protectiveness.
The last place you want to be defending your dog's behavior is in front of a judge, after you've already been through the process of animal control investigation, veterinarian check up, quarantine costs, and the cancellation of insurance due to the dog bite.
It is your responsibility as the dog owner to ensure that your dog is able to be handled by others without biting or aggression.

 

[1000Sparks]

Groomers don't like to use muzzles. Said dog feels restricted

well...yeh. I suggested that to them while she was wiggling and kisses them. I have kids over to my place and she is just interested...would not bite but you never know what a kid would do to aggravate the dog.

Gonna call another groomer tomorrow. I've got enough hair now to make pillows for next Christmas.

Thanks for the replies