Pit Bull TerrierYou may have heard in the media lately that changes have been made to the restricted breed dog laws. These laws classed Pitbull Terriers and Pitbull crosses a restricted breed. Until this year, there has been an amnesty for these dogs in order for existing dogs to be registered and declared. The ending of this amnesty means that new registrations cannot be made and unregistered dogs may be seized by the council. As the owner of a restricted breed dog, there are specific rules regarding how they must be housed and regulations about them being walked in public places.

The rules include that the restricted breed dogs be housed in a secure yard with high fences so that they cannot escape nor can children enter the yard. When being walked, they must be on leash and be under the control of someone over 17 years of age. They must also wear a muzzle when in public. Like any pet dog, they must be microchipped and registered with the council.

If you suspect your dog may be a Pitbull or a Pitbull cross, you should contact your local council for advice on what you need to do.

Some of our clients who own Staffordshire Bull Terriers (also known as Staffy) have been encountering problems with members of the public accusing them of owning dangerous dogs. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are a different breed from Pitbulls and are not a restricted breed. The pictures below can be used as a guide to help distinguish between the two breeds. We must be careful not to jump to conclusions about someone's pet. No one can say for certain what breed a dog is just by looking at it. There is also a distinction between a restricted breed dog and a dangerous dog. A dangerous dog is one which has attacked or threatened to attack a person or animal in the past. These dogs must be leashed and muzzled in public too but must also wear a distinctive red and yellow striped collar.

If you are concerned about a neighbour's dog, your first move should be to contact your local council.

Pit Bull Terrier	Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Visit the Department of Primary Industries website for more information on restricted dog breeds.

• www.new.dpi.vic.gov.au/pets/dog-care/pit-bull-terrier-registration
• www.new.dpi.vic.gov.au/pets/about-pets/legislation-and-regulation/standard-for-restricted-breed-dogs