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Types of dogs

Are there different rules for particular types of dog?

Yes.

Prescribed Breeds

The Dog and Cat Management Act 1995 (SA) contains additional restrictions on prescribed breeds of dogs. This currently applies to:

  • American Pit Bull Terrier,
  • Fila Braziliero,
  • Japanese Tosa,
  • Dogo Argentina and
  • Presa Canario

[Dog and Cat Management Act 1995 (SA) s 4].

While not confined to the premises of the owner or person responsible for the control of the prescribed dog, these dogs must be muzzled and under the effective control of a person by means of physical restraint [s 45B(1)]. It is an offence to breach this requirement.

The owners and people responsible for dogs of these breeds are given much higher penalties for most offences under the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995 (SA).

Greyhounds

While not confined to the premises of the owner or person responsible for the control of the greyhound, these dogs must be muzzled and under the effective control of a person by means of physical restraint (unless exempt from wearing a muzzle, in which case they must still be under effective control) [s 45C]. It is an offence to breach this requirement.

Attack trained dogs, guard dogs and patrol dogs

The owner or person responsible for these dogs must ensure that [s 45D]:

  • at all times while on the premises of the person who is responsible for the control of the dog, be kept indoors or in an enclosure constructed in such a way as to prevent the dog escaping.
  • wear a collar that complies with the requirements of the Dog and Cat Management Board at all times, unless it would be injurious to its health
  • when not confined to the premises of the person who is responsible for the control of the dog, be under the effective control of a person by means of physical restraint
  • warning signs (complying with the requirements of the Dog and Cat Management Board) must be displayed on the premises where the dog is usually kept.

It is an offence to breach these requirements.

Maximum Penalty: fine of up to $5,000

Expiation fee: $750.

Types of dogs  :  Last Revised: Thu Jun 28th 2018
The content of the Law Handbook is made available as a public service for information purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for legal advice. See Disclaimer for details. For free and confidential legal advice in South Australia call 1300 366 424.