SOME breeds of dog are deemed as dangerous – and have even been banned in the UK.
The official Dangerous Dogs Act (1991) bans four breeds from being owned or bred, but what is the law surrounding dangerous dogs and which breeds are affected?
What dogs are dangerous?
Dogs are not just playful, friendly and loyal but they can be dangerous too.
People tend to think of large, vicious dogs when they imagine being bit by one.
But the truth is that many types of dogs are known to bite humans, whether provoked or not.
However, it’s important to remember that just because a breed tends to bite humans, that doesn’t mean that they all do.
British law determines four certain types of dogs as dangerous and therefore makes it illegal to own, breed, sell or give away.
These are a Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino and Fila Brasileiro.
Pit Bull Terrier
The American Pit Bull Terrier was originally bred in England for fighting in sports such as bear baiting during the early 19th-century England, with these often taking place in a “pit.”
When those sports were deemed inhumane and became illegal in 1835, dog-fighting sprung up in its place — and thus was the trait for dog aggression bred into the genetic line.
According to the United Kennel Club (UKC), the essential characteristics of the American Pit Bull Terrier are strength, confidence, and zest for life.
It is a medium-sized, intelligent, short-haired dog, of a solid build.
Japanese Tosa
The Japanese Tosa was also bred for fighting in the Far East.
Dogfighters in Japan did not want a normal type of fighting dog. They wanted a dog that would fight in sumo-style wrestling, and they developed this breed for that purpose.
Owing to Japanese dog fighting rules, the animals weren’t allowed to make any noise in the pit so some of these dogs are said to have been able to fight in silence.
Dogo Argentino
The Argentine Dogo is a large, white, muscular breed of dog that was developed in Argentina primarily for the purpose of big-game hunting, including wild boar.
Breeders also wanted a dog that would exhibit steadfast bravery and willingly protect its human companion.
It became popular for dog fighting when they were brought to this country.
Fila Brasileiro
The Fila Brasileiro is known for its superb tracking ability, aggressiveness and an unforgiving, impetuous temperament.
Rather than attacking its prey, the Fila traps it and waits for the hunter to arrive.
When slavery was legalised in Brazil in the 18th century, the Fila Brasileiro was used to return fugitive slaves unharmed to their masters.
It also became a popular choice for dog fighting in the UK.
