In Massachusetts, we have a strict liability statute when it comes to dogs. If someone is either bitten, or injured, by a dog, and the dog is owned by an individual who owns a home, the dog is, most likely, covered under the homeowner’s policy. There is very little defense in the event you are injured by a dog unless you are teasing the dog, or hurting the dog in some way. This theory is called strict liability, and it often leads to quick and lucrative settlements should the injuries be significant.