Thank you for contacting me about the Dangerous Dogs Act
This Act provides offences in connection with fighting dogs, as well as dog attacks on people and other animals. It also prohibits four types of fighting dog for public safety reasons. Ministers agree with advice from the police that the ban on the Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino and Fila Braziliero should remain in place,
It is important to note that not all banned dogs are destroyed. I know that if a court decides that the owner is a fit and proper person and the dog presents no danger to public safety, the dog can be kept under strict conditions, for example muzzled and on a lead in public. It is also placed on an index of exempted dogs. I believe this is an appropriate approach when determining whether a dog can be safely exempted.
In 2018, a Parliamentary Committee conducted a review into controlling dangerous dogs. The report made 16 recommendations to improve dog ownership and reduce dog attacks, and the Government has responded positively to these suggestions. The response includes a commitment to develop a plan of action to increase dog safety awareness among children. Other countries’ practices and legislation will also be studied, to consider what measures could usefully be adopted in the UK.
I recognise that any dog has the potential to become dangerous and owners are responsible for the behaviour of their dogs. That is why I support the Government’s efforts to promote responsible dog ownership. Compulsory microchipping has been introduced and the maximum penalty for those held responsible for a dog attack has been increased to 14 years’ imprisonment.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
