A dog that aggressively attacks a person or other animal, causing injury or death is classed as a dangerous dog. Where a dog has been shown to behave in a way that fits this description, it can be subject to a local government ruling and be declared as a dangerous dog. This means that the dog is subject to a range of specific controls, such as confinment to a special enclosure within the owner's property, and wearing a special collar, muzzle and lead when being exercised.

As dogs of any breed or size have the potential to be dangerous, the RSPCA believes that dogs should not be declared dangerous on the basis of breed, but on the basis of their behaviour. However, it is recognised that there is a strong genetic component in a dog’s behaviour and propensity for aggression, their trigger point for aggression and their capacity to inflict injury. These characteristics need to be taken into account when selecting a suitable dog and in their subsequent socialisation and training, to reduce the likelhood of aggressive behaviour occuring.

Reducing the incidence of problem behaviours, including aggression, requires responsible pet ownership, public education regarding dog behaviour, early management of problem behaviours and responsible breeding on the basis of appropriate behavioural characteristics.

Currently, certain breeds are banned from importation into Australia by Commonwealth law.  In addition, some Australian States have introduced breed-specific legislation which requires some breeds to be desexed and regulated. In some states the RSPCA is required to euthanase these breeds if they enter our shelters.

Regardless of breed, all dogs at RSPCA shelters go through a behavoural assessment test before they can be adopted. In this way we ensure that aggressive or dangerous dogs can be identified and that only dogs suitable for adoption are rehomed.