Meaning of the word "every dog gets one bite" in English

What does "every dog gets one bite" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

every dog gets one bite

US /ˈev.ri dɔːɡ ɡets wʌn baɪt/
UK /ˈev.ri dɒɡ ɡets wʌn baɪt/
"every dog gets one bite" picture

Idiom

a rule in common law that an owner is not liable for the first time their dog bites someone, provided there was no prior reason to believe the dog was dangerous

Example:
The lawyer argued that since the pet had never been aggressive before, the every dog gets one bite rule should apply.
In some jurisdictions, the every dog gets one bite principle protects owners from initial lawsuits.