Restricted Dog Breeds

A dangerous dog under the Dog Act 1976 s.3(1), means a dog that is:

(a) a dangerous (declared); or

(b) a dangerous (restricted breed); or

(c) a commercial security dog.

A dangerous dog (declared) means an individual dog that under s. 33E(1) is declared to be a dangerous dog (declared).

A dangerous dog (restricted breed) breed is a dog that is prescribed as restricted breed for the definition of a dangerous dog under the Dog (Restricted Breed) Regulations 2013, or is a mix of 2 or more breeds, with one of those breeds being a restricted breed.

Restricted breeds include:

  • dogo Argentino,
  • fila Brasileiro,
  • Japanese tosa,
  • American pit bull terrier,
  • perro de presa Canario or presa Canario,
  • and any other breed of dog the importation of which is prohibited absolutely by the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 (Commonwealth),
  • They may also be a mixed breed that visibly contain any of the above prohibited breeds.

What do I do if I own a restricted breed?

There are a considerable number of restrictions that must be strictly adhered to, for example:

  • A “dangerous dog” warning sign must be on each entrance to your property
  • Dog must be muzzled, wearing a hazard collar and on a leash in public at all times