Understanding Dog Law in the UK – Keep Your Dog Safe and Legal
At Canine Associated Services, we believe that being a responsible dog owner means more than training—it also means understanding your legal obligations under UK dog law. Failing to control your dog could lead to serious legal consequences, including prosecution.
When Is a Dog Considered “Dangerously Out of Control”?
Under the Dangerous Dogs Act, it is against the law to allow your dog to be dangerously out of control anywhere, including:
- Public places (e.g. parks, pavements, shops)
- Private property (including someone else’s home or garden)
- Your own home
The law applies to all dog breeds, regardless of size or temperament.
Your dog may be deemed dangerously out of control if:
- It injures a person, or
- It causes someone to fear injury, even if no injury occurs
Additionally, a court can rule your dog is dangerously out of control if:
- It attacks another animal
- The other animal’s owner fears injury while trying to intervene
Special Warning: Dogs and Livestock
If your dog is found worrying livestock, such as sheep or cattle, the farmer has the legal right to shoot your dog to protect their animals.
Always keep your dog under control, especially when walking near farms, open fields, or grazing animals.
Dog Identification Requirements – Tag and Microchip Laws
While microchipping your dog is now a legal requirement in the UK, your dog must also wear a collar with a clear, visible tag when in public.
Dog tags must display:
- Your full name
- Your address
This rule applies even if your dog is:
- Inside a vehicle
- On private land with public access
Failing to comply with this regulation could lead to fines or other legal action.
Stay Compliant with Dog Laws – Be a Responsible Owner
Avoid fines, criminal charges, or worse by staying informed. At Canine Associated Services, we not only offer expert dog training and behaviour services—we also help dog owners understand and meet their legal responsibilities.
Have questions about your dog’s behaviour or control?
Call us today at 07879 846534 or 01227 365136
Email us at info@canineassociatedservices.co.uk
