Why do dogs have to be declared as restricted breed dogs?
The Government is introducing these controls in response to widespread community concern about dog attacks. The effects of dog attacks are compounded when the dog is of a breed that is predisposed to aggressive behaviour and has physical traits that make the effects of an attack more severe. These attacks can result in horrific injuries which leave the victims with not only physical, but also emotional scars. In extreme cases dog attacks can result in the death of the victim. The Government is therefore committed to increasing dog controls so that owners can be held accountable for the proper control of their dogs.
