We all love dogs and enjoy having them in our homes. However, every dog has personality and temperament, depending on how they’re raised and trained. Unfortunately, some dog breeds are banned. Here’s a definitive list of illegal dogs in Ireland.
Why Are Some Dog Breeds Banned?
Many animal welfare laws are set to keep humans and dogs safe. For example, these laws protect animals against the following:
- Dogfighting
- Mistreatment or abuse
- Being trained as an attack or guard dogs
In addition, these laws also protect humans if a dog attacks them.
Based on the dog breed’s origin and what they were initially bred for, some dog breeds are considered “dangerous” or too aggressive. For instance, the Pitbull is one of these breeds because they were initially bred to be fighting dogs.
Yes, these breeds have that instinct, but with a loving home and proper training, Pitbulls have a sweet and gentle temperament.
However, the breed is considered dangerous because of their ancestors’ reputation. Thus, this breed is often banned or illegal to own in some parts.
Unfortunately, banned dog breeds are to ensure the safety of the community. However, these breeds can be sweet and kind. In addition, any dog breed can be aggressive, depending on how they’re raised and their personality.
The Difference Between Big Dogs And Small Dogs
Any breed can be illegal, but most of them are larger dogs. So, for example, you don’t often see Chihuahuas being banned in some regions of the world.
Why? Chihuahuas are small dogs. If they bite you, they might break the skin, but you can bandage it up, and you won’t feel anything.
On the other hand, a Malinois is a large dog that has a much stronger bite force. So, even if they’re up to date with all of their shots, you might be injured for a little while if they bite you and break the skin. It’ll take some time for that one to heal.
All dog owners need to keep their dogs adequately trained – no matter their breed or size – and keep them under control and on a leash. This is one of the reasons leash laws came into place.
Illegal Dogs In Ireland
Believe it or not, Ireland does ban certain dog breeds, including mixed breeds. For example, they ban the following:
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- English Bull Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Bull Mastiff
- Doberman Pinscher
- Rottweiler
- German Shepherd
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Akita
- Japanese Tosa
- Bandog (mixed breeds of any of the dogs on this list)
What Happens If You Have An Illegal Dog Breed In Ireland?
Whether you live in Ireland or you decide to relocate or visit with your dog, make sure you go to an area that doesn’t ban your dog’s breed.
If you’re caught with a banned dog breed, then you must do the following to ensure you and your dog are safe. Otherwise, consequences could ensue. For example, you must:
- Keep your dog on a strong leash and muzzled out in public at all times
- Wear a collar with your contact information on it
- The dog must be licensed and microchipped
- You must be 18 years or older in order to own a banned dog breed
How To Keep You And Your Dog Safe
The best way to ensure that your dog isn’t considered to be dangerous or aggressive within your city you can do the following:
- Properly train your dog with the help of a professional dog trainer
- Keep your pup fenced-in at the house and on a leash when in public
- Ensure your dog is up to date with all their shots and boosters
- Wear a muzzle in public if your dog is known to be reactive or aggressive
- Always supervise your dog
Not All Dogs Are Bad
No matter what breed they are, some dogs are aggressive while others or not. It depends on how well they were trained, how they were trained, and their overall personality mixed with their breed’s temperament.
