Washington RCW 16.08 governs dangerous and potentially dangerous dogs through behavior-based standards rather than breed identity, requiring registration, secure confinement, and liability insurance for declared dangerous dogs across all jurisdictions.
RCW 16.08.070 defines dangerous dogs by past behavior including unprovoked attacks causing severe injury or killing domestic animals. Owners of declared dangerous dogs must obtain a certificate of registration, maintain a proper enclosure, post warning signs, and carry surety bond or liability insurance of at least $250,000 under RCW 16.08.080. While Washington allows local breed-specific ordinances, RCW 16.08.090 establishes statewide minimum standards that apply uniformly. Violations can result in dog confiscation and criminal penalties.
Owning a dangerous dog without registration, inadequate confinement, lack of insurance, or failure to post signs constitutes a gross misdemeanor; subsequent attacks may be charged as Class C felonies under RCW 16.08.100.
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