Dangerous and restricted dogs

The Dog Act 1976 and the Dog Regulations 2013 provide information on dangerous and restricted dog breeds.  There are three categories of dangerous dogs:

Restricted breed

Under the Dog Act, a dangerous dog is defined as a breed whose import into Australia is restricted. Some dog breeds are identified as restricted in Australia. This also includes any cross breeds identified as restricted

The following breeds are classified as restricted:

• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Brasileiro
• Japanese Tosa
• American Pit Bull Terrier
• Pit Bull Terrier
• Perro de Presa Canario or Presa Canario.

Declared breed

While most dog owners responsibly train and control their dogs, some do not. Any individual dog, of any breed may be declared as dangerous by the Senior Ranger.

Commercial Security dog

A dog that is kept primary for the purpose of guarding or protecting a premise that is not a dwelling is considered dangerous.

Keeping a dangerous dog is subject to legislative requirements.

All dangerous dogs must be:

• Registered annually
• Sterilised
• Wearing a prescribed collar
• Muzzled and on a lead when in public places
• Under the control of a competent adult.

If you own a dangerous dog, ensure:

• A dangerous dog sign is installed at all access points to your property
• Fencing is secure and childproof so that the dog can be contained safely
• You may have a maximum of 2 dangerous dogs per property, before requiring a permit.