Dangerous and Menacing dogs

Menacing dogs

Dogs can be classified as menacing dogs if they are seen or reported to be posing a threat to people, stock, poultry, domestic animal, or wildlife.

Menacing dogs must be kept on a leash and muzzled at all times when in public places.

We may require dogs classified as menacing to be neutered.

There are also five types of dogs automatically classed as menacing under Schedule 4 of the Dog Control Act 1996:

• Brazilian Fila
• Dogo Argentino
• Japanese Tosa
• Perro de Presa Canario
• American Pit Bull Terrier

Dangerous dogs

Dogs are classified as dangerous if they are considered to pose a serious threat to any person, stock, poultry, domestic animal, or wildlife. This is usually based on the dog having attacked, or on sworn evidence of aggressive behaviour.

A dangerous dog owner must:

• neuter the dog within one month of the classification
• muzzle the dog and control it on a leash at all times when in a public place
• keep the dog in a property that is securely fenced and allows safe access to at least one door of the dwelling
• obtain written permission from the council before selling or disposing of the dog
• disclose the dangerous dog classification to any new owners if there is a change of ownership
• advise any temporary owner or carer of all the requirements
• pay a registration fee of 150% of the fee that would apply if the dog were not classified as a dangerous dog.