Dog classifications for dogs that may be menacing or classed as dangerous are important as they set guidelines for you and your dog to prevent harm to any person or other animals.
It is our council's policy to emphasise the control of dogs classifed as menacing and dangerous.
Classifications
A dog can be classified as menacing by breed or menacing behaviour.
Menacing by breed: There are four breeds of dogs that are classified as menacing breeds these are:
- Brazilian Fila
- Dogo Argentino
- Japanese Tosa
- American Pit Bull Terrier (type dog)
Menacing by behaviour: This is determine by an animal control officer as a result of a complaint about the dog that led to an investigation conducted by the officer and grounds for the classification were found.
It is an offence to make a false statement relating to application for registration, including information on the breed of a dog, which can result in an infringement of $750.
Dangerous dog classification
The council shall classify a dog as dangerous and place restrictions on it, if:
- The dog owner has been convicted under Section 57 of the Dog Control Act 1996 (dog attacking a person or animal)
- There is sworn evidence that the dog has been aggressive
- The owner admits the dog is dangerous
Effects of these classifications
Depending on which classification applies the dog owner will be required to:
- Have the dog neutered and microchipped
- Muzzle the dog in public places
- Provide specified containment for the dog when on the owner’s property
- Pay an increased dog registration fee
- Special requirements relating to rehoming or having other people in temporary possession of these dogs