UNDER the Control of Dogs Act 1986, as amended by the Control of Dogs (Amendment) Act 1992, local authorities are responsible for the control of dogs. They have the power to appoint dog wardens, provide dog shelters, seize dogs, impose on-the-spot fines and take court proceedings against owners.

Under this legislation it states that dog owners are liable for injury or damage caused by their dog to people or livestock. The Control of Dogs Regulations 1998 impose additional rules in relation to the following breeds (and strains/cross-breeds) of dog:

  • American pit bull terrier
  • English bull terrier
  • Staffordshire bull terrier
  • Bull mastiff
  • Dobermann pinscher
  • German shepherd (Alsatian)
  • Rhodesian ridgeback
  • Rottweiler
  • Japanese akita
  • Japanese tosa
  • Bandog

    • The rules state that these dogs (or strains and crosses of them) must:

  • Be kept on a short strong lead by a person over 16 years who is capable of controlling them.
  • Be muzzled whenever they are in a public place.
  • Wear a collar bearing the name and address of their owner at all times.

    • GUARD DOGS

    A guard dog used at a non-residential premises must be either accompanied by a handler or secured so that it cannot roam freely or escape. A notice must be displayed at the entrance, informing the public that a guard dog is on the premises.

    The guard dog must wear a collar displaying the name and address of its owner. It must also carry an electronic implant containing a permanent identification mark provided by the ISPCA. This implant must be inserted by or under the direct supervision of a vet authorised by the ISPCA. The dog owner is responsible for the cost involved in inserting the implant. Kennels where more than five guard dogs aged over four months are kept must register with the local authority.

    There are specific rules on the keeping of guard dogs: the Control of Dogs Act 1986 (Guard Dog) Regulations 1989.