RESTRICTED DOG BREEDS
(Please note that the following serve as a guide only - you should contact your local government/town council/ranger for more specific instructions)
In Western Australia, special regulations apply to owners of certain dog breeds classified as "restricted". The Dog (Restricted Breeds) Regulations 2002 section 53 of the Dog Act 1976 requires these owners to abide by provisions similar to those that apply to dogs declared dangerous by local governments/councils. These measures include:
1. The display of "Dangerous Dog" warning signs at all access points to the property where these dogs are kept.
2. Wearing specified collars indicating "Dangerous Dog".
3. Stringent fencing requirements (escape proof and child proof fencing).
4. Muzzling and restraint at all times in public.
5. Age restrictions for owners and handlers (> 18 years).
6. Compulsory notification to local government by the prospective owner that the dog is a restricted breed dog
7. Compulsory notification to local government/council if the dog escapes, dies or there is a change of ownership.
New amendements have recently been made to the regulations effective from March 2006 now require:
8. All restricted breed dogs must be sterilised/desexed (unless there are extenuating circumstances relating to the animal’s physical condition or medical treatment).
9. The new regulations also state that all restricted breed dogs must be muzzled, leashed and controlled by an adult (>18 years) who is physically capable of handling the dog, in any environment except prescribed enclosures.
Restricted dog breeds include:
American Pit Bull Terrier and Pit Bull Terrier breeds
Dogo Argentino (Argentinean fighting dog)
Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian fighting dog)
Tosa Inu (Japanese Tosa or Japanese Fighting Dog)
Perro de Presa Canario or Presa Canario
and any dog of a mixed breed that visibly contain any of the above breeds.
The WA legislation also allows for extra powers for seizure and destruction, and in cases of breach of these regulations, fines of up to $5000. For more information, contact your local government/town council/ranger
