What would you do? should I push the issue?

Earlier this month (June) I was bitten on the bicep of my right arm, by a small dog belonging to my really good neighbor. I reached over my backyard fence to pet the dog as he was jumping up the fence and bit me. Normally this dog is a happy go lucky very docile dog, I never thought he would ever bite me. I was bleeding pretty bad and eventually was seen by an Emergency room doctor requiring 4 stitches, tetanus shot, cleaning and a statement to the humane society's officer as required by state law the dog was quarantined for 10days. The dog is well taken care of and no rabies, and had all shots. My question is whose fault is this accident? I have a 1200.00 doctor bill and a scare on my arm where the dog bite me. I told everyone it was my fault for sticking my arm over the fence however when I think about it wouldn't my neighbors home owners insurance pay for this? If i pressed the issue it would make my neighbor an enemy. I am easy going and don't want to cause trouble however If i talked to an attorney things may be more in my favor. Would you make your neighbor pay for this if it were you? Should I put my good guy neighbor on bad terms if I forced him to pay? He didn't offer any apologies or offer to assist in paying the bill