Breed specific legislation

Breed specific legislation (BSL) is viewed as one solution to preventing future attacks or dog bite incidents. The dog breeds banned are regarded as high-risk breeds or breeds bred specifically to enhance aggressive behaviours.

The RSPCA does not support BSL. Our view, based on available international scientific evidence, is that any dog may be dangerous and that dogs should not be declared as ‘dangerous’ based on breed.

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA), along with the National Veterinary Associations of Britain, the United States and Canada have all recognised that breed-specific approaches to dog breed regulations are not effective as they do not protect the general public from dog attacks.

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The RSPCA supports strategies to prevent the risk of aggressive dogs in the community and the risk of dog bites. Including:

• Education.We need to educate ourselves, and particularly children in dog behaviour and bite prevention.
• Dog training, socialisation and behaviour. Dog owners need to understand the importance of early socialisation for their puppies, dog behaviour and dog training to prevent dog bites.
• Keeping dogs secure at home and under control when in public places.
• Desexing can also positively impact a dog’s behaviour.

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Teaching kids all about dog safety. Children across Queensland are singing and dancing to T.A.I.L., as RSPCA teams up with popular children’s entertainers, Pevan & Sarah. Making learning fun, a catchy tune based on the acronym T.A.I.L, teaches children the four must-know tips for safely interacting with dogs.

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