Ohio has updated its laws governing dangerous and vicious dogs with the signing of Avery’s Law, legislation that passed unanimously in both chambers of the General Assembly and was signed by Gov. Mike DeWine.
The law, formally House Bill 247, revises long-standing sections of Ohio’s dog control statutes and is intended to strengthen public safety while clarifying when and how authorities can intervene after a serious dog attack.
Why the law was passed
Avery’s Law is named after a young Ohio girl who suffered severe injuries in a dog attack. Lawmakers said existing statutes did not give dog wardens or courts sufficient authority to act quickly following serious incidents, particularly in cases involving repeat offenses or severe injury.
The legislation received bipartisan support and passed unanimously in both the Ohio House and Senate.
What changes under Avery’s Law
The law updates several areas of Ohio’s dangerous dog regulations.
Faster intervention after serious attacks
Authorities may seize a dog more quickly following a serious attack, rather than waiting for multiple incidents, allowing courts and investigators to act sooner.
Clearer definitions of dangerous and vicious dogs
The law refines classification standards, giving courts clearer guidance when determining whether a dog poses an ongoing risk to the public.
Stronger penalties for negligent owners
Dog owners whose animals cause serious injury or death while running at large may face increased criminal penalties, particularly in cases involving repeat violations.
Court authority over confinement or disposition
In cases involving serious injury or death, courts may order stricter confinement requirements or, in some circumstances, humane euthanasia following due process.
Liability insurance requirements
Owners of dogs classified as dangerous or vicious may be required to carry liability insurance, generally with minimum coverage of $100,000.
Expanded reporting requirements
Medical professionals and veterinarians are required to report dog bites and related injuries to local health authorities, improving tracking and enforcement.
What it means for responsible dog owners
For most dog owners, Avery’s Law does not change day-to-day responsibilities. The law does not target specific breeds and does not apply to dogs that have not been involved in aggressive incidents.
However, owners are expected to properly confine their dogs, prevent them from running at large and comply with court-ordered restrictions if a dog is deemed dangerous or vicious. Failure to do so may now carry more serious legal consequences than under previous law.
When the law takes effect
According to the final enrolled bill language, Avery’s Law takes effect March 18, 2026. Until that date, Ohio’s existing dog control statutes remain in effect.
Bottom line
State officials say Avery’s Law closes gaps in Ohio’s dangerous dog laws by allowing quicker intervention after serious attacks and holding negligent owners accountable, while leaving responsible dog owners largely unaffected.