Dangerous dogs

My dog has been attacked - what should I do?

If your dog has been attacked by another dog, unless a member of the public was at risk, this is a civil matter between you and the owner of the other dog concerned.

I have been attacked by a dog or I was scared I was going to be attacked - what should I do?

If you have been attacked it is important to obtain medical help, especially if your anti tetanus inoculation is out of date (a booster is normally required every ten years). Then you need to contact Warwickshire Police on 101 to report the incident and ask for your incident to be referred to the Dog Legislation Officer (DLO).

Under the 1991 Dangerous Dogs Act, an offence could be committed if a dog is dangerously out of control in a public place. Even if it is not in a public place, but in a place where the dog is not permitted to be and it bites someone, or frightens someone, the owner could still be prosecuted.

What is a dangerous dog?

The following dogs and also cross-bred pitbulls, are considered to be dangerous dogs under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• Japanese Tosa
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Braziliero

It is illegal to possess such a dog without a certificate of exemption, which is granted once the dog is neutered, insured, and has a microchip implant. These dogs cannot be in public places without being muzzled and being securely kept on a lead by a person who is not less than 16 years old.

• If you see one of these dogs then contact Warwickshire Police on 01926 415000 and ask for your siting to be referred to the Dog Legislation Officer (DLO)

Last updated Thursday, 28th September 2023