Many dog owners think the Dangerous Dogs Act only applies to banned breeds or serious bites. But the law is much broader than that – and it affects all of us, regardless of what kind of dog we have or breed.
Here are four everyday situations that could lead to serious consequences under the Act – even if your dog has never bitten anyone.
Being aware means being prepared – so that you can make a few little adjustments to ensure you keep your dog safe.
Important points from the Dangerous Dogs Act
- It’s not just banned breeds that are covered.
- Any dog of any breed can be considered dangerous under the law.
- You don’t have to be bitten.
- If your dog causes someone to fear injury, that alone can lead to prosecution.
- It applies in your own home.
- The law includes incidents in your own house or garden (i.e. a visitor)
- You could face serious consequences.
- Penalties include criminal charges, fines, prison, and your dog being seized or destroyed.
- Prevention is protection.
- Good management such as baby gates and leads could be the difference in saving your dog.
Example scenarios of the Dangerous Dogs Act
Here are some example scenarios that you might not associate with getting prosecuted under the Dangerous Dogs Act – but you could do under the terms of the act!
A Visitor Enters Your Home and Gets Bitten
You’re not expecting anyone, but a family friend, delivery driver, or tradesperson steps into your house or garden. Your dog feels unsure and bites them.
Under the Dangerous Dogs Act (since it was updated in 2014), dog incidents on private property – including your own home – are covered by the law. If a person is injured, even in your living room, you could face criminal charges. The dog could be seized and a court may order them to be put to sleep, even if the bite was out of fear.
A Child Pets Your Dog Without Warning
You’re sitting outside a café or in a park. A child suddenly runs over and tries to stroke your dog before you can react. Your dog snaps or growls in fear or surprise.
The law doesn’t just apply to bites. If a person – especially a child – feels threatened or frightened by your dog’s behaviour, it may still count as being “dangerously out of control”. Even if your dog was simply uncomfortable or caught off guard, you could still be prosecuted.
Your Dog Lunges and Barks at the Postman
Your dog is behind your garden gate or on a lead. The postman walks by and your dog barks, lunges or growls. They don’t bite – but the postman is startled or scared.
That’s enough. The law says that if a person fears injury, not just suffers it, your dog could be considered dangerously out of control. Postal workers and delivery drivers are among the most common groups involved in DDA cases – often without any physical contact happening at all.
Your Dog Jumps Up at a Jogger
You’re out for a walk and your dog is excited. They jump up at a passing jogger, maybe to say hello. The jogger stumbles or falls – and ends up injured.
The Dangerous Dogs Act doesn’t consider your dog’s intentions. Even if your dog was being friendly, if someone is injured or feels under threat, it could still be a criminal offence.
Be aware to be prepared
This all sounds terrible scary, and it’s not meant to be – but it’s so important to be aware.
A few changes like babygates when a visitor comes to the door, keep leads close when in busy places so your dog can’t nip someone inadvertently, or securing dogs during visitors coming in if your dog isn’t keen on visitors can be all it takes.
Access the full Dangerous Dogs Act here.
