Change the DDA 1991 to stop breed bans and focus on behaviour

We ask the Government to reform the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 by removing breed-specific legislation and replacing it with behaviour-based laws. We think legislation should focus on responsible ownership, training, and education to improve public safety without unfairly targeting certain dog breeds.

Evidence suggests breed-specific laws have not reduced dog attacks and we consider they unfairly punish dogs based on looks, not behaviour. Data shows aggression is linked to ownership and training. We believe we need effective, evidence-based laws that focus on behaviour, enforce accountability, and support public education to truly keep people safe.

The government recognises that some people are opposed to breed specific legislation. However, we must balance the views of those who want to repeal or amend breed specific legislation with our responsibility to ensure that the public is properly protected from dog attacks.

Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 prohibits the ownership, breeding, gifting and sale of five types of dogs: the Pit Bull terrier, the Dogo Argentino, the Fila Brasileiro, the Japanese Tosa and the XL Bully. The ban of these dog breeds is there to protect public safety, and it is a criminal offence to be in possession of a banned breed type in England and Wales unless the dog is covered by a Certificate of Exemption.

XL Bully type dogs were added to the list of prohibited breeds in February 2024. This decision followed an unacceptable increase in dog attacks in recent years and the disproportionate involvement of XL Bullies in this rise. This government is committed to ensuring that the ban on XL Bully dogs is fully implemented and enforced to ensure our communities are protected from dangerous dogs.

It is important to note that police and local authorities have a range of additional powers available to tackle dangerous dogs and irresponsible dog ownership across all breeds of dog. Under the Dangerous Dogs Act, owners of any dog that is dangerously out of control are breaking the law, regardless of breed. Any dog that is dangerously out of control can be euthanised, and the owner could be put in prison for up to 14 years and banned from ever owning a dog. Community Protection Notices and Public Space Protection Orders can also be used to address anti-social behaviour involving dogs.

On wider responsible dog ownership, Defra is working with the police, local authorities and animal welfare groups to help prevent further attacks. We will do this together by encouraging responsible dog ownership, making sure dog control issues are addressed before they escalate, and using the full force of the law where needed. As part of this work, the government has reconvened the Responsible Dog Ownership Taskforce to explore measures to promote responsible dog ownership across all breeds of dog. Ministers will be receiving its findings and recommendations in due course.

This work includes considering the role of education and training, for both dogs and their owners, in reducing the risk of dog attacks. The Department is also looking at improving its data collection and recording so it is in a better position to take action.

The Department will continue this work and do its utmost to reduce the risk to people and communities from dangerous dogs.

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs