What is Dangerous Dogs Act?

The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 makes it a criminal offence to allow any dog to be dangerously out of control, in public or private. It also bans four breed types (Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro), with the XL Bully added in England and Wales from 2024 under separate rules. Penalties range from fines to imprisonment, and courts can order destruction of the dog. Owners of banned types need an exemption certificate.