Is there a legal difference between a vicious dog and a dangerous dog?
The law often makes a distinction between the words “dangerous” and “vicious,” but some states, including New Jersey, combine the terms. Generally, a vicious dog is one that exhibits tenancies towards aggression, or that has already attacked or bitten another animal or human. Dog breeds are not typically universally considered vicious by legal definition (but certain dog breeds may be considered universally dangerous). However, individual dogs, based on their own unique behavior, may be considered vicious according to the law.
