Question
Do I have to euthanize my dog if he killed another dog? I’ve offered to pay what the dog was worth and cremation. They are wanting that plus to euthanize.
Tennessee, USA
Answer
The decision to euthanize a dog who attacked another animal is not up to the person whose animal was injured or killed. People whose dogs are alleged to be dangerous are generally entitled to present evidence at a hearing. Local dangerous dog laws vary (with some not including dog on dog/animal attacks) but typically dogs who are declared dangerous for injuring or killing another animal are not ordered to be euthanized. Rather, the dog’s “parent” is generally required to take precautions to avoid another incident, including such things as confining the dog, muzzling, and procuring liability insurance.
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