Stricter rules and higher fines to be introduced for owners of restricted dog breeds

Stricter rules are being enforced for controlling dogs, with on-the-spot fines to be tripled for owners found in breach of the law.

Owners of dogs considered to be dangerous will receive on-the-spot fines of €300 if their dogs are not muzzled under new laws, the Independent has reported.

Dog wardens will be able to issue similar fines in cases where owners are “failing to keep their animals under control” – this includes dogs who attack livestock. Certain dogs must be on a lead in public spaces if required by local bylaws. Fines can also be issued to dog owners who don’t have a license for their pets, as part of new measures aimed at “out of control dogs”.

The fines have been tripled from €100, after Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys signed new regulations around dog control.

Minister Humphreys warned owners that owners could face multiple fines at once, for example, if they have a restricted dog in public without a muzzle, collar or dog licence.

Restricted dog breeds in Ireland include the American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Dobermann Pinscher and German Shepherd.

In a statement shared by RTÉ News, Minister Humphreys said:

“Dogs can be a wonderful addition to a family or farm, however, dog owners must take responsibility to ensure their dogs do not cause harm or nuisance to people or property.

“I want to send a strong message to dog owners – if your dog is not controlled you will be fined. And if you own a restricted dog, you must comply with the regulations.”

The minister also announced a new €2m fund for Irish dog shelters, which will be used to upgrade these facilities along with vehicles used by them.

Header image via Getty 

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