These Dogs Are Feared, Restricted, and Banned for Shocking Reasons
What if your beloved furry companion was considered illegal in another country? Across the globe, certain dog breeds are feared, banned, or heavily restricted due to their reputation for aggression, size, or even myths surrounding them. It’s not always fair, but the consequences for owning these breeds can be severe. Let’s look at the dog breeds that governments have deemed too dangerous, and why you might face fines or even legal trouble for owning them.
1. The Japanese Tosa Is Outlawed in Denmark
Known for its stoic demeanor and massive size, the Japanese Tosa is banned in Denmark and several other European countries. This breed was historically bred for dogfighting, which has left it with a reputation for aggression. In places where it’s legal, owners often face strict conditions like muzzling and high insurance premiums.
2. The Cane Corso Faces Restrictions in Germany
In Germany, Cane Corsos are classified as dangerous and require owners to pass rigorous tests to keep them. These muscular, intimidating dogs were originally bred for guarding property, leading to fears of aggression. Even a friendly Cane Corso can scare people, adding to the stigma around the breed.
3. The Pit Bull Is Banned in the United Kingdom and Beyond
Pit Bulls are perhaps the most notorious breed when it comes to bans. The UK’s Dangerous Dogs Act makes owning or breeding them illegal, and they’re also restricted in Australia, New Zealand, parts of Canada and the United States. This breed’s reputation for aggressive attacks has led to fear-based legislation. Even well-trained Pit Bulls can be confiscated and euthanized in banned areas, regardless of their behavior.
4. The Rottweiler Is Restricted in Poland and Ireland
In countries like Poland and Ireland, owning a Rottweiler means following strict guidelines. Owners must muzzle their dogs in public and carry liability insurance in case of an attack. These powerful and loyal dogs are feared for their size and strength, leading many to assume they’re inherently dangerous. One misstep could land owners in hot water.
5. The Dogo Argentino Is Illegal in the United Kingdom
This muscular breed is banned in the UK due to its history as a hunting dog that could take down large prey. Its strength and stamina make it a target for breed-specific legislation. Countries like Australia and New Zealand have followed suit, banning the Dogo Argentino for fear it could be used in illegal dogfighting rings.
6. The American Bulldog Is Restricted in Singapore
In Singapore, American Bulldogs are listed as a dangerous breed that requires special licensing to own. Owners must muzzle and leash their dogs in public and pay higher fees for registration. Their intimidating appearance and strength make them feared by many, despite their loyal and loving nature.
7. The Boerboel Is Banned in France and Qatar
The Boerboel, a South African mastiff, is banned in France and Qatar due to its size and guarding instincts. Known for being fiercely protective, this breed is often misunderstood as aggressive. In countries where it’s legal, owners typically need to adhere to strict training and control measures.
8. The Fila Brasileiro Is Outlawed in the United Kingdom
The Fila Brasileiro, also known as the Brazilian Mastiff, is outright banned in the UK under the Dangerous Dogs Act. Its reputation as a fearless guard dog has led to fears of uncontrollable aggression. In other countries, owning one often means following strict containment and training requirements.
9. The Presa Canario Is Restricted in New Zealand
This massive breed from the Canary Islands is heavily restricted in New Zealand. Known for its strength and history as a fighting dog, the Presa Canario is considered a public safety risk. Owners must muzzle and leash their dogs in public and undergo rigorous vetting to keep one legally.
10. The Akita Inu Requires Licensing in Spain
In Spain, Akitas are classified as potentially dangerous, requiring special licenses to own. Their strong guarding instincts and independent nature can lead to issues with aggression if not properly trained. Owners must follow strict rules, including muzzling their dogs in public, to avoid fines or worse.
11. The Chow Chow Is Seen as a Threat in Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, Chow Chows are listed as dangerous and require licensing to own. Known for their aloof personalities and lion-like appearance, they can be unpredictable if not properly socialized. Despite their fluffy exterior, this breed’s restrictions come from a fear of sudden aggression.
12. The Wolfdog Hybrid Is Banned in Many Parts of the World
Wolfdogs, a hybrid of wolves and domestic dogs, are banned or restricted in countries like the UK and the United States. Their unpredictable nature and close genetic ties to wild wolves make them controversial. Even in places where they’re legal, owners face tight regulations to ensure public safety.
13. The Kangal Requires Strict Handling in Turkey
While revered in Turkey as a national treasure, the Kangal is subject to strict handling laws to ensure safety. Known for their powerful guarding instincts, these dogs are feared for their ability to overpower almost any threat. Mismanagement of such a large and strong breed can lead to serious consequences.
14. The Doberman Pinscher Faces Restrictions in Romania
In Romania, Doberman Pinschers are classified as dangerous and require owners to follow strict guidelines, including muzzling and leashing in public. Their strong build and reputation as guard dogs have contributed to their controversial status in several countries.
15. The Alabai Is Restricted in Central Asia
The Alabai, also known as the Central Asian Shepherd, is revered for its guarding abilities but restricted in several parts of Central Asia. Owners must pass training certifications and adhere to strict leash and muzzle laws. This breed’s sheer size and strength make it a challenge for even experienced handlers.
16. The Rottweiler Is Heavily Restricted in Italy
Italy has implemented strict laws for owning Rottweilers, including mandatory insurance and public muzzling. These loyal and protective dogs are often misunderstood as aggressive, leading to unfair restrictions that make owning one a bureaucratic headache.
17. The Dogo Canario Is Restricted in Norway
In Norway, the Dogo Canario is classified as a dangerous breed requiring special permits to own. This powerful mastiff has a history of being used in dogfighting, leading to fears about its potential for aggression. Even the most well-trained Dogo Canario faces significant stigma.
18. The Bull Terrier Requires Licensing in Switzerland
In Switzerland, Bull Terriers are classified as potentially dangerous and require licensing and behavioral evaluations. Their strong jaws and muscular build have earned them a reputation as a public safety risk, even if they’re playful and loving with the right owners.
19. The Shar Pei Faces Restrictions in Malaysia
In Malaysia, Shar Peis are listed as a breed requiring special handling. Known for their wrinkled appearance, they can be territorial and protective, leading to incidents of aggression if not properly socialized. Their restrictions highlight the complexities of owning such a unique breed.
20. The German Shepherd Requires Training Certifications in Belarus
In Belarus, German Shepherds are classified as working dogs and require owners to complete training certifications. Their intelligence and versatility can become a double-edged sword, as poorly trained Shepherds can be destructive or overly aggressive. Strict handling laws aim to prevent these issues.
Across the globe, these breeds have been deemed too risky, even when raised with love and care. Owning one of these dogs often means navigating a maze of restrictions, but it’s a reminder of the responsibility that comes with these powerful and misunderstood animals.