A dangerous dog

Information about dangerous dogs, including how they are classified and what to do if you suspect you know of or own one.

What is a dangerous dog?

The dangerous dog types are: Pit Bull Terriers, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Braziliero.

These dogs are dangerous because they were originally bred for their ability to fight.

Some common Pit Bull type names are: Pit Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Type, American Staffordshire, Irish Staff, Irish Blue Staffordshire. Merseyside Police recommends that these dogs are not suitable as family pets.

These dangerous dogs are prohibited under the Dangerous Dogs Act (1991). For further details please refer to 'Dog Related Incidents' leaflet published by Merseyside Police.

Does the Act only apply to these types of dangerous dogs?

No, the law also gives protection to the public from any type of dog, which is dangerously out of control in a public place, or in a private place where it has no right to be.

If there is a dog of any type that is dangerously out of control in a public place, the police and local authorities have procedures in place to respond and take action where appropriate.

What should I do if I think I have a dangerous dog?

If an owner has a dog that they believe to be a prohibited type under the Dangerous Dog Act, such as a pit bull, they should contact their local police who can assess the dog and provide advice.

What should I do if I suspect that a relative, friend, colleague or neighbour owns an illegal dog?

If you suspect that someone owns an illegal dog you should contact the police on 0151 709 6010. Alternatively, if you want to remain anonymous, please contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Crimestoppers is a charity independent to the police. You won't be asked your name or personal details.

Who will decide if a dog is illegal?

Merseyside Police has a team of officers trained to identify illegal dogs.

Will dogs that are a danger to the public be seized?

Yes, Merseyside Police and/or our partner agencies will always seize any dog that is believed to be a threat to the owner, their household or the general public.

What happens to illegal dogs once it has been seized?

The court will decide if the dog is to be destroyed or to put strict restrictions on the owner and place the dog on an exempted list. This list is called the 'Index of Exempted Dogs', which is managed by the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

What are these strict restrictions?

Any dog on the index list must be neutered, tattooed and micro-chipped. It must be kept on a lead and muzzled when in a public place. The owner must maintain insurance against the dog injuring anybody and the dog cannot be left in possession or control of anybody under the age of 16.

What happens to an owner of a dangerous dog?

If an owner has a banned dog they are breaking the law and liable for prosecution. The court will decide what sentence to impose and whether the dog should be put on the exempted list or destroyed.

The maximum penalty for illegal possession of a prohibited dog is a fine of £5,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment.

Is there anybody other than the police that I can talk to about my illegal dog?

There are various organisations and/or charities you can contact for general advice. Some examples are the Kennel Club on 020 7518 1020 or the Dog's Trust on 020 7837 0006.

What should I do if I see a stray or lost dog?

If anyone sees a stray or lost dog you should contact your local authority or local dog warden services so appropriate action can be taken.

• Wirral Animal Welfare Services 0151 647 8799
• Sefton Plus 0845 140 0845
• Knowsley Dog Warden Service 0151 443 4712
• St Helens Dog Warden Service 01744 676338
• Liverpool Animal Wardens 0151 233 3001

A guide to the legislation surrounding dangerous dogs can be found on the right hand side of this page.