There are strict laws in Victoria for menacing, dangerous or restricted breed dogs for public safety reasons. If you are a dog owner you need to be aware of these laws, as they give Council powers to impound or even destroy your dog in certain circumstances.
Council keeps a record of dogs that are declared dangerous, menacing or restricted breed in the shire. These types of dogs are treated differently under Victorian law:
- Menacing dogs are declared because they have rushed or chased someone.
- Dangerous dogs are declared because they have attacked, are used for guarding, or have been trained to attack.
- Restricted breed dogs are declared if they are a particular breed, not because they have attacked. They may have never displayed any signs of aggression, but have been deemed to be a higher risk to the community.
Because of the risks to public safety there are severe penalties for dogs involved in attacks, dogs found wandering at large and unregistered dogs.
The following are restricted breed dogs:
- Fila Brasileiro
- Japanese Tosa
- Dogo Argentino
- Perro de Presa Canario (or Presa Canario)
- American Pit Bull Terrier (or Pit Bull Terrier).
Dog attacks are serious, and children can often be the victims. Any breed or size of dog can become aggressive when provoked or defending its territory. Most dog attacks happen in public places, on the footpath or road. For this reason it is important to ensure your dog is always securely confined and not left unattended in a public place. Please teach your children how to behave around dogs.
If you are attacked or rushed at by a dog in the Macedon Ranges, report the incident to us immediately on (03) 5422 0333. Please provide as much information as possible, including:
- time and date of the incident
- where it happened
- name of the dog owner (if you know)
- dog registration number (if you know)
- a description of the dog
- a detailed description of the incident.