08/07/2025
Did you know the Dangerous Dogs Act isn't just about banned breeds or actual bites?
If someone GENUINELY FEARS your dog could do harm by their barking or lunging without even making contact, then that can be enough to warrant further action.
Here are 4 examples that could easily happen to any of us that could be prosecuted under the Dangerous Dogs Act.
(This isn't a post to scare anyone, but you should be aware of the Dangerous Dogs Act - and a few simple changes like babygates, or keeping dogs close when on lead in busy places, could be the difference in keeping your dog safe.)
For example, our dogs like a good old bark at people going past our gate so we lock our gate when they're running free to stop people wandering in. They wouldn't bite, but a large barking dog would definitely scare someone.
❗️Important to know
1. It’s not just banned breeds that are covered.
Any dog of any breed can be considered dangerous under the law.
2. You don’t have to be bitten.
If your dog causes someone to fear injury, that alone can lead to prosecution.
3. It applies in your own home.
The law includes incidents in your own house or garden (i.e. a visitor)
4. You could face serious consequences.
Penalties include criminal charges, fines, prison, and your dog being seized or destroyed.
5. Prevention is protection.
Good management such as baby gates and leads could be the difference in saving your dog.
❗️A Bite to a Visitor
A delivery person or family friend steps inside your house, and your dog bites them. Since 2014, the Act applies to incidents in private property, including your own home.
❗️Child Approaches Without Warning
You’re sitting on a bench with your dog, and a child runs up and tries to stroke them. Your dog growls or snaps. Even if no contact is made, if the child feels threatened, that can count as the dog being "dangerously out of control".
❗️Your Dog Lunges and Barks at the Postman
Your dog is behind a gate or on lead, but lunges, barks, or snaps as the postman walks past. If the postman fears injury, that’s enough - no bite needed.
❗️Your Dog Jumps Up at a Jogger
Your friendly dog jumps up at a jogger in excitement and accidentally knocks them over. The law doesn’t distinguish intent - if injury is caused, even playfully, your dog may still be deemed dangerously out of control.
👍Be aware to be prepared
This doesn’t mean that any one of these incidents would result in your dog being seized and taken away – but they could be liable under the Dangerous Dogs Act – so being aware and prepared is important.
A few changes like a babygate, lead or simply not letting strangers pet your dog in public could prevent these risks.
