Restricted Breeds
The Control of Dogs (Restriction of Certain Dogs) Regulations Act was enacted in Ireland in 1991. Under the Act, there are certain controls affecting certain breeds.
Restricted breeds in Ireland include:
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- Bull Mastiff
- Doberman Pinscher
- English Bull Terrier
- German Shepherd (Alsatian)
- Japanese Akita
- Japanese Tosa
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Rottweiler
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Know the law
Under the Control of Dogs Act, 1986, a court can order dogs to be destroyed if they are ‘dangerous’ and not kept under proper control.
- Restricted dogs must be:
- Securely muzzled in public places
- Led by a strong chain or leash not exceeding 2 metres
- Led by a person over 16 years old who is capable of controlling the dog
A dog warden or a member of An Garda Síochána cannot enter your home without a warrant. A warrant can only be granted under the Control of Dogs Act where a breach of the Act has or is thought to have occurred.
In July 2007, Dublin City Council announced a ban on all restricted breeds from all their properties. This includes: houses, flats and estates. The move met with a lot of resistance from animal welfare groups, including ANVIL Ireland. We promote responsible pet ownership through education and properly enforced legislation.
We believe the action has done nothing to either educate the public or tackle the problem of aggressive dogs. Outright bans have not worked in other countries. They have led to criminal activity involving certain breeds being driven underground or undesirables moving to other breeds.
Many of the breeds listed in the 1991 regulations were originally herding animals. German Shepherds are used as guide dogs, therapy dogs and rescue dogs. Yet, they are on the restricted breeds list.
Restricted breeds, like all dogs, can be companions if they are treated correctly. Their owners must be educated in how to treat them.
