Assessments for exempt and banned breeds

Under current UK law, assessments carried out for prohibited or banned dog types examine an animal’s physical conformation instead of solely focusing on their behaviour. These five banned dog breeds are Pit Bull Terriers, Dogo Argentino, Japanese Tosa, American XL Bully and Fila Brasileiro.

Official typing is performed either by expert witnesses or police using specific physical criteria to assess if an animal falls under the 1991 Dangerous Dogs Act.

What is the assessment criteria for dangerous dogs?

The assessment looks at the physical characteristics of the dogs. These include muzzle structure, head shape, posture, coat, body proportions and measurements of the dog’s height at the shoulders (withers), body proportions, head shape, muzzle structure, coat and posture.

A standard comparison is also conducted. This matches the physical traits of a dog against established official conformation profiles set up for prohibited types instead of using pure pedigree status.

Temperament and behaviour are also assessed by the courts with the owner’s suitability. This is used to inform and decide on exemption or Contingent Destruction Order instead of euthanasia.

What are the exemption requirements for banned and prohibited dogs?

If dogs are assessed as exempt, they must be officially registered. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs oversees UK dangerous dog laws, and exempt dogs must be recorded in its Index of Exempted Dogs.

Owners must complete mandatory actions that include permanently neutering and microchipping their dog. Concerning public safety, they must also adhere to specific restrictions. Exempt dogs must always wear a muzzle and remain on a lead in public spaces and can only be handled by persons who are aged 16 or over. Furthermore, exempt banded breeds must not be left with children under 12 in a private setting without an adult supervising.

As a certified dog aggression behaviourist in Oxfordshire and the surrounding areas, Azz Rainey has extensive experience owning and working with large and exempt breeds. With an in-depth knowledge of the problems they can sometimes develop, like reactivity and aggression, he is well placed to assist. Touch base with him now for a one-on-one consultation.