THERE are around twelve million people in the UK who are proud pet owners of dogs.
But what do we know about pit bulls and is it illegal to own one in the UK?
Are pit bulls illegal in the UK?
Owning a pit bull is illegal in the UK.
Originating in England, they were bred as fighting dogs, taking part in sports such as bear baiting and dog fighting.
According to the United Kennel Club (UKC), the essential characteristics of the American Pit Bull Terrier are strength, confidence, and zest for life.
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It is a medium-sized, intelligent, short-haired dog, of a solid build.
If you have a banned dog, the police or local council dog warden can take it away and keep it"
Gov Website
Even if there was no complaint or it is not acting dangerously, a banned dog can be taken away.
However, If the court decides the dog is fine for ownership, the animal must wear a muzzle and be kept on a lead in public at all times.
It must also be registered and insured, neutered, tattooed, and fitted with a microchip implant.
Even if you do have an exemption allowance to own a pit bull terrier, you cannot breed them, sell them or exchange them.
If an owner can’t prove to the court that their dog isn’t a banned type, they can get an unlimited fine or be sent to prison for up to six months.
The dog will also be put down.
When were pit bulls banned in the UK?
It is illegal to breed, sell, abandon, or give away certain types of dogs in the UK.
The 1980s saw an increasing number of reports of unprovoked attacks by pit bulls on humans.
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Between 1981 and 1991 there were 15 fatal dog attacks in England and Wales.
In 1991, the UK government decided to take action, banning the breed along with three others.
The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 is an Act of Parliament which focuses on prohibiting or restricting certain types of dogs and codifying the criminal offence of allowing a dog of any breed to be dangerously out of control.
The act has been criticised by groups such as the RSPCA, who suggested it was unfair to judge a dog based on their breed rather than their behaviour.
The three other breeds that were banned were the Japanese Tosa, the Dogo Argentino and the Fila Brasileiro.
On January 31, 2024, the XL Bully breed was added to the list.
The decision to ban the dogs was made following a concerning rise in attacks from these dangerous dogs.
Sadly, 23 people have lost their lives after vicious dog attacks in the last three years.
Are pit bulls banned in any other countries?
The rules in different countries vary when it comes to owning this breed of dog as a pet.
Pit bulls are also banned in Denmark, Norway and Cyprus.
They are allowed with restrictions in countries including France, Spain and Germany.
Pitbulls are legal to own in several US states, but are banned in many states and cities in Canada.
Are Pit Bull crossbreeds illegal in the UK?
Crossbreeds may also be subject to the law, depending on their size and characteristics.
The law prohibits pit bull types, but it doesn't specifically ban dogs that may have been crossbred.
The government advises: "Whether your dog is a banned type depends on what it looks like, rather than its breed or name.
"For example, if your dog matches many of the characteristics of a Pit Bull Terrier, it may be a banned type."
