Using Muzzles in the UK & Dangerous Dogs

Using Muzzles in the UK & Dangerous Dogs

 

Firstly not all dogs attack because they are aggressive, every household is a different scenario. A dog may attack because they are anxious, under threat, misunderstood etc. regardless we need to do what we can to keep everyone safe 

Every dog owner should understand their responsibility and be aware of keeping your for legged friend, other pets and humans safe.  You should provide proper training, control, and equipment for your dog (ideally from a young age). With this intention a well fitting dog muzzle, a comfortable and safe dog harness, and a leash will be good supplies in dog walking and training and everyday different situations in the life of your dog. It does not mean that your dog should be always muzzled, as well as many muzzles do not allow your dog to drink and eat. But it is indispensable many situations, as off leash training, vet visiting (for a dog not to injure itself or a vet), dog grooming, dog walking in public places, transporting in public conveyances etc. The majority of transporting companies require a dog to be muzzled when transported.

 

 

Hunting Dogs / Hounds

 

You should remember that even a well trained dog is an animal with instincts. Especially some large breeds like Greyhound and Lurcher are bred to chase small animals. To secure surroundings and yourself from troubles you should care of a good fit and comfortable dog muzzle for these dogs to wear in public places and being out.

FAQ:

Are Bull Mastiffs supposed to be muzzled?

Do Rottweiler dogs need a muzzle?

Do Staffordshire Terriers have to wear a muzzle?

Does a British Bulldog have to wear a muzzle in the UK?

Read the answers below and get to know the list of dogs that must be muzzled UK.

 

Dogs - Muzzle Law UK

There are no laws in Great Britain that demand a dog to be muzzled in some specified cases, but you should remember that you will take the responsibility if something happens for the fault of your dog. A dog owner should save himself and people around from troubles and injures being in public places, especially if there are children, in public conveyances and while off leash training.

The Dangerous dogs Act of 1991 specified a few breeds to be a danger to the public.

List of dogs that must be muzzled UK

The following dog types have to wear a muzzle and kept on a lead in public, also they are required to be registered and insured, neutered, tattooed and receive microchip implants.

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

"Persons from having in their possession or custody dogs belonging to types bred for fighting; to impose restrictions in respect of such dogs pending the coming into force of the prohibition; to enable restrictions to be imposed in relation to other types of dog which present a serious danger to the public; to make further provision for securing that dogs are kept under proper control; and for connected purposes." (DDA 1991)

The Act is applied also for cross-breeds of these four types of dogs. Dangerous dogs are classified by "type", not by breed label. And whether a dog matches the description of a prohibited "type" is assessed by a court based on its physical characteristics. The Act applies in England, Wales and Scotland, with The Dangerous Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1991 having a similar effect in Northern Ireland.

List of dogs that must be muzzled in Ireland

There are restricted dog breeds in Ireland, that have to wear muzzles and be on a strong lead in public places. These are:

  • American Pit Bull Terrier
  • Bull Mastiff
  • Doberman Pinscher
  • English Bull Terrier
  • German Shepherd (Alsatian)
  • Japanese Akita
  • Japanese Tosa
  • Rhodesian Ridgeback
  • Rottweiler
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier
  • and every dog of the type commonly known as a Ban Dog (or Bandog)
  • and every other strain or cross of every breed or type of dog listed above.

 

Responsibility of a dog owner

A dog should be trained from the very young age to become a well-bred member of the society and make your life spare from troubles and the surroundings from danger. It is up to you to train an obedient dog. If your dog barks or it is too aggressive, a dog muzzle will not resolve the problem. Consult a veterinarian and find a good dog trainer to manage the problem from the very beginning until it becomes a constant dog habit that is difficult to manage.

There are no bad dogs, there is not enough of quality dog training. Be responsible and care of your four legged friends and we will provide you will all the needed supplies for comfort and security of your dog.

 

 

 

Check out our range of Muzzles and other methods of training e.g. calming remedies, pet correctors to stop them being anxious, barking. 

We advise that you take every opportunity to get your dog use to wearing a muzzle even if its wearing it for 5-10 minutes around the house daily and reward with a treat afterwards.

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