UK Government Mulls Over Banning the American Bully Breed Following Recent Attacks
The UK government, led by Mr. Sunak, is contemplating legally defining and subsequently banning the American Bully breed under the Dangerous Dogs Act. This act is applicable in England, Wales, and Scotland. The breed, which originated in the US in the late 1980s from a cross between American Pit Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers, has been involved in recent attacks, prompting this consideration.
| Facts of the News |
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| UK government considers banning the American Bully breed under the Dangerous Dogs Act |
| The breed originated in the US in the late 1980s |
| Some countries have restrictions on the American Bully breed, including mandatory muzzling in the Republic of Ireland |
The United Kennel Club in the US describes the American Bully as an “excellent family dog” with a “gentle and friendly” demeanor despite its powerful appearance. However, it also notes that “some level of dog aggression is characteristic of this breed,” but aggressive behavior towards humans is uncharacteristic. The breed is restricted in some countries, including the Republic of Ireland, where it must be muzzled and on a leash no longer than 2 meters (6 feet 7 inches) when out in public.
Under the current provisions of the UK’s Dangerous Dogs Act, owning any dog that is “dangerously out of control” is illegal. The law specifically bans the Pit Bull Terrier, and dogs that share physical characteristics with banned breeds, including cross breeds, are also prohibited. In case of legal disputes, the owner has the onus to prove that their dog is not a banned type. Failure to prove this or pleading guilty leads to conviction, with penalties including an unlimited fine or up to six months in prison, and the dog being destroyed.
The consideration to ban the American Bully breed comes amidst a surge in attacks involving this breed. If the breed is legally defined and banned, it will join the list of breeds prohibited under the Dangerous Dogs Act, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring public safety and controlling dog aggression.
| Dangerous Dogs Act Defined |
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| The Dangerous Dogs Act is a law in the UK that prohibits owning any dog that is “dangerously out of control.” It bans specific breeds and imposes strict regulations on dog ownership to prevent attacks and ensure public safety. The act encompasses England, Wales, and Scotland. Learn more about the Dangerous Dogs Act on Wikipedia. |
What is the stance of the United Kennel Club in the US regarding the American Bully breed?
The United Kennel Club in the US perceives the American Bully as an “excellent family dog” with a “gentle and friendly” demeanor. Despite acknowledging some level of dog aggression as a characteristic of the breed, it emphasizes that aggressive behavior towards humans is uncharacteristic for American Bullies.
What are the current provisions of the UK’s Dangerous Dogs Act?
The UK’s Dangerous Dogs Act prohibits owning any dog that is “dangerously out of control.” It bans specific breeds, including the Pit Bull Terrier, and extends to dogs that share physical characteristics with the banned breeds. Owners involved in legal disputes have the responsibility to prove their dog is not a banned type, failing which they can face severe penalties including fines and imprisonment.
What prompted the UK government to consider banning the American Bully breed?
The UK government is considering the ban on the American Bully breed following recent attacks involving these dogs. The move aims to enhance public safety by controlling dog aggression and preventing potential attacks in the future.
Source: BBC News
