Dogs must be kept under control at all times.
It is a legal requirement under the control of dogs act, 1986, that a dog must be under effectual control at all times when outside the premises of the owner/person in charge of the dog.
Dogs left to roam loose in the neighbourhood cause nuisance such as chasing cars/people, sheep worrying, damage to neighbours gardens etc.
Owners of greyhounds may walk no more than four greyhounds at any one time.
Which Breeds are Restricted?
Regulations are in place with regard to specific breeds.
These breeds are selected because of their size, strength and original breed function.
The control of dog regulations, 1998 state that the following breeds and their crossbreeds are termed as dangerous in the eyes of the law:
- Doberman Pincher
- Bulldog
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- German Shepherd
- Bull Mastiff
- Rottweiler
- American put bull terrier
- English Bull Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Japanese Akita
- Japanese Tosa
- Bandog
- XL Bully
What Must Owners Do?
For these stated breeds owners should ensure the following:
- Dogs should always be muzzled;
- Dogs should always be leashed by means of a less than one
- metre long strong leash of chain;
- Must only be walked by a person aged 16 years or over and
- Must be under their effectual control at all times.