Controlled Breeds
The Control of Dogs Regulations 1998 places extra duties on the owners of the following breeds:
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- Bull Mastiff
- Doberman Pinscher
- English Bull Terrier
- German Shepherd (Alsatian)
- Japanese Akita
- Japanese Tosa
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Rottweiler
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier, or a cross of any of these
These dogs may not appear in any public place unless:
- the dog is wearing a secure muzzle
- the dog is on a strong leash no more than two meters long
- the dog is led by a person over 16 years old, capable of controlling the dog
Contravention of the Regulations can result in fines, imprisonment, seizure and even destruction of the dog. Section 6 of the 1998 Regulations requires every dog at all times to wear a collar and an identity tag giving the name and address of the owner.