The four dog breeds banned in the UK: What you need to know

In the UK, four specific breeds of dog are banned, meaning it is illegal to own, breed, import, or sell them without special exemption. This legislation, under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, aims to reduce risks to public safety, children, and other pets by addressing breeds considered more likely to present aggression concerns or risk due to their size and strength.

Although not all dogs of these breeds are aggressive, and temperament strongly depends on training and environment, the UK government alongside organisations like DEFRA deemed these breeds as having a higher risk profile. For responsible dog lovers, this can be a difficult topic, balancing breed traits with the impact of ownership and training on behaviour.

Below is an overview of the banned breeds and their key characteristics, helping you understand why they are restricted in the UK.

1. The Pit Bull Terrier pit bull type

The Pit Bull Terrier is not a distinct breed but refers to a type featuring traits common to crosses of breeds like the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier, and American Pit Bull Terrier. Typically, Pit Bull type dogs are medium-sized, muscular, with a short single coat that comes in many colours.

Originally bred for livestock management and hunting, Pit Bulls have unfortunately also been associated with illegal dog fighting. Despite this, many are loving pets under responsible ownership. Under UK law, these dogs cannot be legally kept without exemption, and all suspected Pit Bulls must be muzzled and leashed when in public if exempted.

2. The Japanese Tosa

The Japanese Tosa is a large breed that can weigh between 80lb and 200lb, typically displaying a short fawn or red coat. Originating from Japan, this rare breed was bred primarily for dog fighting, a practice that unfortunately persists. Due to this origin and size, the Japanese Tosa is banned not only in the UK but in countries including Australia, Denmark, Norway, and New Zealand.

3. The Dogo Argentino Dogo Argentino puppies

The Dogo Argentino is a muscular and large hunting dog from Argentina, developed for big game hunting and personal protection. Through breeding, aggression inherent in one of its ancestors, the Córdoba Fighting Dog, was bred out, and the breed is generally known to work well with other dogs.

Despite its intended temperament, the Dogo Argentino’s stamina, persistence, and strength make it a breed banned in multiple countries including the UK, Iceland, Singapore, and Australia. Like other banned breeds, ownership is restricted under UK law.

4. The Fila Brasileiro

Also known as the Brazilian Mastiff, the Fila Brasileiro belongs to the Molosser group and has lineage that includes the English Mastiff and Bloodhound. It is a large, powerful dog with significant bone structure, loose skin, and a unique pacing gait where the legs move in pairs on the same side.

Renowned for tracking and stamina, the Fila Brasileiro’s temperament includes a short fuse and aggressive tendencies, making socialisation and calming training challenging. This temperament is why it is banned in the UK and several other countries including Australia, Israel, Denmark, Malta, and Cyprus.

Understanding the Dangerous Dogs Act and Exemptions

Under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, ownership of these breeds is prohibited. However, dogs already owned before the ban or those with special exemption must be registered on the Index of Exempted Dogs (IED), microchipped, muzzled, and kept on a lead in public. This ensures public safety while acknowledging responsible ownership in specific cases.

It is important to remember that behaviour varies in individual dogs, and owners of all breeds should promote responsible handling and training to ensure safe and loving pets.

Why are some breeds banned?

Breeds are banned not to demonise dogs but as a public safety measure for those considered more likely to be used in fighting or have the potential to cause serious harm due to their physical power. The UK government and responsible animal welfare organisations continually review legislation to balance dog welfare and public safety.

Conclusion

While the ban on these four breeds in the UK restricts their ownership, understanding their history, traits, and the legal framework helps promote safer communities and stresses the importance of responsible pet ownership. If you’re looking to add a companion dog to your family, consider breeds that suit your lifestyle and always seek reputable breeders or adoption centres for healthy and well-socialised puppies and dogs.