Avery's Law
- Mar 19
- 3 min read
What Ohio dog owners need to know, and why it matters more than ever
If you’ve followed me for a while, you know I’m a huge advocate for leashing your dog — even just to go outside.
And there’s a reason for that: we’ve been attacked multiple times in our own neighborhood by dogs whose owners thought, “they’d never do that.”
Starting March 20, a new Ohio law — Avery’s Law — goes into effect, and it significantly increases responsibility (and consequences) for dog owners and anyone caring for a dog.
This isn’t just a legal update. It’s a shift in what responsible dog ownership really means.
What Is Avery’s Law?
Avery’s Law is a new Ohio law designed to prevent serious dog attacks by holding owners and caretakers more accountable.
At its core, the law does three things:
Increases legal consequences when a dog causes harm
Expands how dogs are classified as dangerous or vicious
Gives authorities more power to act quickly after incidents
You Can Now Be Criminally Liable for Your Dog’s Actions
One of the biggest changes is this:
You can now be criminally liable if your dog hurts someone.
Statements like:
“I didn’t think my dog would do that”
“My dog would never do that”
… are no longer valid defenses.
If your dog attacks someone without provocation, you can face criminal charges ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the injury.
In serious cases, that can mean:
Jail time
Fines up to $10,000
The Definition of “Dangerous” Just Expanded
Under Avery’s Law, a dog no longer needs a severe bite history to be classified as a problem.
A dog can now be labeled dangerous if it:
Causes any injury (not just severe ones), or
Shows repeated threatening behavior
Dogs that cause serious injury or death are classified as vicious.
In the most severe cases, after due process, a dog may be required to be euthanized.
New Requirements for Dangerous or Vicious Dogs
If a dog is officially classified as dangerous or vicious, the owner now has ongoing legal responsibilities.
These may include:
Annual registration (around $100)
Carrying at least $100,000 in liability insurance
Following stricter confinement and control requirements
Posting warning signage
Owning a high-risk dog is no longer passive — it comes with clear, enforceable obligations.
Authorities Have More Power to Act
Avery’s Law also strengthens the authority of dog wardens and local officials.
They can now:
Seize a dog after a serious attack
Investigate complaints more aggressively
Take faster action to prevent repeat incidents
This means issues are less likely to be ignored or delayed.
The Biggest Shift: It’s Not Just About Owners
Here’s the part that surprises most people:
This law applies to ANYONE responsible for the dog.
That includes:
Friends
Family members
Pet sitters
Anyone temporarily caring for the dog
If you’re watching someone else’s dog and an incident occurs, you may share liability.
Important: What the Law Does Not Penalize
Avery’s Law does include important protections.
Dogs are not penalized for:
Defending themselves
Protecting their owner
Protecting their property
The law is designed to target negligence — not appropriate defensive behavior.
What This Means for You as a Dog Owner
The standard of care has been raised.
As a dog owner, you now need to be more proactive than ever.
That means:
Using secure containment (fences, leashes, supervision)
Taking early signs of behavior issues seriously
Investing in ongoing training, not just puppy classes
Preventing situations that could escalate into incidents
And perhaps most importantly: Preventing “near misses” matters more than ever — because patterns of behavior now count.
Leashing Your Dog Is No Longer Optional Thinking
Leashing your dog is no longer just about being polite.
It’s not just about being a “good neighbor.”
👉 It’s legal risk management.
But beyond that, it’s how you:
Protect your dog
Protect yourself
Protect your community
Every time someone says, “Don’t worry, my dog is friendly,” they’re taking a risk that now carries real consequences.
If You Haven’t Started Training Yet, Start Now
Training isn’t just about obedience — it’s about safety, control, and communication.
If you’re not already working with your dog, now is the time to start.
Ask your dog community friends for trainer recommendations in your area. Read Google reviews and find the one that seems like a good fit for you and your dog.
If you’re local to Coshocton County, Ashton & Co. K9 Academy is currently offering discounted Level 1 Basic Obedience group classes ($120 through the end of the year).
Final Thoughts
Avery’s Law isn’t about punishing dog owners. It’s about preventing tragedies.
But it does mean one thing very clearly:
Responsibility is no longer optional — it’s enforceable.
And the simplest place to start?
Leash your dog. Every time.
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