Why Dogs Are Banned Dogs or Declared Dangerous
Australia has restricted certain breeds and declared some dogs dangerous because they have been deemed aggressive and/or been specifically bred for fighting. An import ban on breeds, including the Dogo Argentino and pit bull, aims to protect the public and other animals.
Notably, while there is an import ban on certain breeds, the ban does not extend to ownership. Therefore, you can own a pit bull if the dog was already here before the ban was enforced. However, restricted breed owners face strict rules. This includes a ban on breeding restricted dogs in Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania, Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia.
Chow Chow breeds are banned in some parts of the world, but not in Australia.
What Breeds Are Restricted in Tasmania?
Restricted breeds in Tasmania are the same as those restricted nationally: American pit bull terrier, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Perro de Presa Canario and Japanese tosa. Staffordshire terriers, mastiffs, and bullmastiffs are not prescribed breeds in Tasmania, but they can be mistaken for restricted breeds because the animals can look similar.
To bring a dog from a restricted dog breed from the mainland into Tasmania, you must give your local council a weeks notice.
Who Can Own A Pitbull In Australia?
It is possible to own a pit bull in Australia if the dog has descended from an existing Australian pitbull line, and owners comply with strict conditions set out by the local authorities.
In reality, the ownership and registration of a pitbull is a local (city/ town or council) issue.
This is why, if you are considering owning this particular breed, you should contact your local authorities for guidance.
Laws differ from state to state, particularly concerning the identification and management of any dog listed and classified as an ‘potentially dangerous dog’ or on the BSL list.
Besides, around 25 of the 77 government authorities refuse to allow or register this breed altogether.
Then there are specific rules, where pitbulls and other dangerous dogs must:
So, if you are interested in this particular breed, it is crucial you do your research and due diligence ahead of time.
Its imperative to become familiar with your local rules, laws and obligations.