Expert Witness
What Is a Dog Expert Witness?
A dog expert witness helps courts and attorneys understand canine behavior through professional insight and testimony. In cases involving dog bites, attacks, or behavioral disputes, the expert’s role is to explain why a dog may have acted a certain way and what factors influenced that behavior—training, environment, handling, or prior experiences.
The Role of a Dog Expert Witness
A dog expert witness provides an objective, science-based perspective on canine behavior and training. This includes:
- Interpreting a dog’s actions in context
- Reviewing the dog’s behavioral and training history
- Explaining breed traits, environmental factors, and handling practices
- Helping clarify questions of risk, provocation, or preventability
- The goal is to help the court and legal teams make informed, fair decisions based on an accurate understanding of canine behavior.
Qualifications
Caitlin Coberly is a certified professional dog trainer with extensive hands-on experience addressing reactivity, aggression, and complex behavioral issues in companion and working dogs. Her approach combines:
- Evidence-based behavioral science
- Real-world training experience
- Collaboration with veterinary and legal professionals
- This balance allows her to provide grounded, reliable testimony that stands up under scrutiny.
What Evidence Is Reviewed
In preparing an opinion, Caitlin may review:
- Incident reports, videos, and photos
- The dog’s training and veterinary history
- Handler interviews and witness statements
- Environmental context of the event
Each piece of evidence is evaluated carefully to form a complete behavioral picture and determine the likely causes and contributing factors.
Types of Cases
- Dog expert witness services are commonly used in:
- Dog bite and attack cases
- Aggression and temperament evaluations
- Negligence and liability claims
- Ownership or custody disputes
- Service or working dog behavior assessments
Caitlin’s testimony helps clarify complex behavioral questions and supports fair, informed outcomes in court.
If you’re an attorney, investigator, or insurance professional seeking expert insight into a canine behavior case, Caitlin can help.
Reach out to discuss your case or request a consultation:
