Dangerous dogs

The 1991 Dangerous Dogs Act, created controlled breeds of dog. These are the Pit Bull Terrier type, Dogo Argentina, Fila Brazilliera and the Japanese Toza. Only one of these breeds, the Pit Bull Terrier is currently known to be in the country.

There is no official breed standard for a Pit Bull terrier, so if a dog fits the description issued by the Home Office, it is classed as a Pit Bull. Cases of dispute will be determined by the Animal Wardens and/or the Courts.

These breeds need to be specially registered and have control measures in place. If a dog is of this type and is not registered, it may be seized by the Council and a Court will decide whether to allow registration of the dog, whether a penalty will be imposed or if the dog should be destroyed.

Other dogs can also become "controlled" if they pose any kind of threat to people.

If your dog has tendencies towards aggression, bear in mind that if it is reported for frightening a person, ultimately it could be classified as a dangerous dog and have measures put in place to control it by the Courts. Worse still, if it actually attacks someone, it could end up being destroyed.

See the 'Relevant Documents' section of this page for more information.