Dangerous Dogs

The Dangerous Dogs Act bans the breeding, sale and exchange of the following dogs:

  • Pit Bull Terriers
  • Japanese Tosas
  • Dogo Argentinos
  • Fila Brasilerios

It is the type of dog, rather than the breed, which is used to classify the dogs under the act.  This means that the physical and behavioural characteristics of a dog are used to determine the application of the act.

What happens if I own this type of dog?

  • If the dog is identified as being dangerously out of control in a public place, it will be destroyed.
  • Owners can be fined and imprisoned for up to six months. If the dog injures someone, the owner can be jailed for up to two years.

How do I report a dangerous dog?

If you see a stray dog wandering the streets, contact the council's Dog Warden Service on 0151 443 2300.

To report an agressive or dangerous dog contact Merseyside Police on 0151 709 6010.