Recently, the Maryland Court of Appeals ruled that pit bulls are "inherently dangerous" dogs. Citing statistics regarding dog bites in recent years, the court made their ruling that the breed has an inherent propensity to do harm. As a result, they are imposing stiffer laws on pit bull owners, and making pit owners and landlords that rent to pit owners more liable than ever for their dog's actions. (Pit bulls are already banned in Prince George's County.)

In D.C. and Virginia, a dog has to bite first to be designated a "dangerous dog"; any attacks thereafter result in stiffer penalties.