Calls grow to reform Dangerous Dogs Act based on behaviour, not breed

Renewed calls have been made to reform the UK’s Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, with growing pressure to shift the focus from breed-specific bans to behaviour-based assessments. The debate has intensified as the Dangerous Dogs Act (Amendment) Bill is scheduled for its second reading in Parliament on 13 June 2025.

The original legislation, introduced in 1991, prohibits or restricts ownership of certain dog breeds deemed more likely to be aggressive or cause serious harm. However, critics argue that this approach has failed to reduce dog attacks and unfairly targets specific breeds regardless of individual behaviour.

Animal welfare organisations, including the RSPCA, have long voiced concern about breed-specific legislation. They argue that aggression is a complex issue influenced by factors such as training, environment, and past experiences – not just breed. The Dog Control Coalition, which includes the RSPCA, Dogs Trust, and The Kennel Club, continues to advocate for evidence-based policies that focus on responsible ownership and early intervention

Philippa Luscombe, partner in Penningtons Manches Cooper’s personal injury team, commented:

“Many people regularly come into contact with animals and form strong attachments with their pets. Nevertheless, animals are unpredictable and can act aggressively in certain circumstances. Although this may be due to the temperament of the animal or the behaviour of others, it can also happen unexpectedly.

All animal owners, whether they keep pets, livestock or working animals, have a duty of care to the public. For most canine attacks, the dog’s behaviour in the past is all-important. While we continue to believe that the ban on certain breeds is crucial to protect the public from the heightened risk they pose, aggression can be influenced by how dogs are bred, raised, and treated throughout their lives. It is important not to lose sight of that by solely focusing on the breed.”

As Parliament prepares to debate the proposed amendments, the conversation around dog safety and public protection is shifting toward a more nuanced and evidence-led approach.