Sir, Kit Malthouse raises the serious subject of those who choose to use dogs as weapons (Opinion, Nov 2) and suggests that the issue can be dealt with by tougher legislation to ban certain breeds or types of dog.

The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 already provides exactly those controls, and makes certain types or breed of dog illegal to breed, sell or own. Yet this has simply served to make these dogs more desirable to those determined to break the law and acquire a “status dog”. It has not prevented a large number of dog attacks or reduced the number of pitbull-type dogs in the UK.

Conversely, the Act has had a significant effect on the welfare of some dogs, and has led to them either being kept in kennels for many years or put down simply because of their breed or type. For these reasons the Kennel Club and Dangerous Dogs Act Study Group, a wide-ranging group representing animal welfare, local authorities, police and veterinary professional organisations, believes that the Act needs amending to protect the public against dogs dangerously out of control without compromising any dog’s welfare.

The police expend significant resources on enforcement of the Act, and much of that goes on the seizure of dogs where the only offence is the way they look. A large percentage of dog-biting incidents are due to the irresponsible actions of owners who have either not taken the time to train their dog correctly or have trained them to behave aggressively. Consequently, any legislation based on genetics that ignores the influence of the dog’s keeper is likely to be ineffective.

Instead of demonising and banning breeds of dog, the dog’s behaviour — as well as its treatment by its owner — should be used to determine if it is a risk to public safety.

Caroline Kisko
Secretary, The Kennel Club

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