Dangerous, menacing and restricted dogs

Dangerous dogs  
Restricted breeds

Under the Animal Management (Cats & Dogs) Act 2008(PDF, 783KB) dogs identified as restricted are required to have a permit in addition to registration. Restricted dogs are those breeds prohibited from importation into Australia under the Customs Act 1901 or if the dog is the subject of a restricted dog declaration.

The following are restricted dog breeds:

  • Dogo Argentino
  • Fila Brasileiro
  • Japanese Tosa
  • American Pit Bull Terrier
  • Pit Bull Terrier
  • Perro de Presa Canario
  • Presa Canario

Permits can be applied for while applying to register to the dog. Complete the Dog Registration Application Form(PDF, 282KB) and submit to Council. 

Owners are responsible for ensuring their permit is kept up to date.

Dogs declared dangerous or menacing

Requirements for a dog that is declared menacing under the Animal Management (Dogs and Cats) Act 2008:

  • The dog must be implanted with a Prescribed Permanent Identification Device.
  • The dog must wear a collar with an attached identifying tag at all times.
  • The dog must, unless there is a reasonable excuse, be usually kept in a childproof enclosure.
  • A sign must be placed at or near each entrance to the premises where the dog is usually kept to notify the public.

Additional requirements for a dog that is declared dangerous:

  • The owner must ensure the dog is desexed within three months after declaration unless desexing is likely to be a serious risk to the dog’s health.
  • A regulated dog must not be in a public place unless it is muzzled; and under the effective control of a responsible person who is only controlling the declared dog.
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