Dangerous Dogs and Breed-Specific Legislation (BSL)

Dear constituent,

Thank you for contacting me about dangerous dogs and Breed-Specific Legislation (BSL).

I agree the current approach to dog control is misguided and does not protect people adequately. Safety must be our top priority but without unnecessarily punishing responsible dog owners or harming dogs that are not necessarily a risk.

Since the Dangerous Dogs Act came into force, more people have been killed by dog attacks and more people are being admitted to hospital due to dog bites. At the same time, too many harmless dogs are being destroyed simply because they are a banned breed regardless of their temperament.

We must be more pragmatic when it comes to banning certain dogs based on their breed. All dogs can be dangerous in the wrong hands. Action to tackle dog bites and canine aggression must focus on the deed, not the breed.

In 2018, the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee carried out an inquiry into BSL. The Committee called for a full-scale review of current dog control legislation and policy to ensure the public is properly protected and animal welfare concerns addressed. It said changing the law on BSL is desirable, achievable, and would better protect the public.

I believe we must follow science and evidence. The Government must commit to a review of BSL and the Dangerous Dogs Act as soon as possible, and engage with local authorities, police and experts from other countries to develop a deeper understanding of different and successful approaches for the UK.

Government-commissioned research by Middlesex University into dog control measures was published in December 2021 and concluded that dog ownership is insufficiently regulated. The Government has said it remains concerned lifting restrictions could lead to further tragedy but has indicated it is considering its recommendations, which included improved recording of dog attack data and characteristics, and new legal requirements on dog ownership.

BSL does not stop dog bites, is bad for animal welfare and, because they cannot be rehomed in a controlled environment, thousands of dogs are being euthanised. We need a more holistic approach to dog control that focuses on prevention through education, responsible ownership and early intervention.

Thank you once again for contacting me and sharing your views.

Peter Dowd MP