Workers comp and dog bites
If the bite is deep or the bleeding won't stop, get emergency care first. For care steps, see dog bite treatment.
Workers comp pays your medical bills and part of your lost wages. Each state runs its own system. People who work for private companies or for state and local agencies file with their state board, the U.S. Labor Department says.
Report the bite to your employer in writing the same day. Write down the date, the place and the dog.
A claim against the dog owner
Many workers are bitten on a customer's property. This includes delivery drivers, home health aides, meter readers and repair techs.
Comp covers the work side of the injury. The customer's homeowners insurance may cover the rest. Read who pays for a dog bite to see how that coverage works.
Get the owner's name and address. Ask if they have homeowners insurance.
Whose dog it was matters
Who owned the dog decides how many claims you may have. Call now and an attorney will help you sort it out.
- Your employer owns the dog: Workers comp is usually your only claim. File with your state board and keep every medical bill from the bite.
- A customer, stranger or coworker owns the dog: A claim against that owner may be open on top of comp.
- You are a federal worker: Federal employees use a separate federal comp program, run by the Labor Department. See our page on dog bites and mail carriers.
Reviewed September 15, 2026