Breed Specific Legislation
Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) is any law or ordinance created by a legislative body regarding specific dog breeds or dog phenotypes. This can include licencing, restrictions, conditions of ownership, and outright bans. In recent years, BSL has flared up in response to tragic dog bites and attacks. But, there is no link to the effectiveness of such legislation and the reduced number of dog bites. In fact, there is nothing to suggest these 'anti-dog bite' laws are effective at all. Responsible dog ownership and education is the key to raising stable and wellbehaved dogs. In NSW the following breeds are banned: American pit bull terrier or pit bull terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro.
Although Staffordshire Bull Terriers are not listed as a dangerous or restricted breed, we fear they may be added due to the large amount of bad press the breed has received in recent years. The NSW Companion Animal Microchip Registry does not require any proof of breed when a dog is being micro-chipped and listed - statistics from this registry are then used to obtain information about dog attacks. This is why the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is listed as the dog breed involved with the highest number of attacks which have been treated at a hospital.
It is anybody's guess how many of the dogs listed as purebred are ANKC pedigree registered. So it is anybody's guess how many attacks, which are counted when determining that the Stafford is the most dangerous dog in NSW, actually involve purebred Staffordshire Bull Terriers.
As a dog owner, YOU are responsible for the actions of your dog. BSL blames the breed, and does not take into account the individual dog's behavior, actions and temperament. To ensure the future of our dog breeds, we need to make it our obligation to serve as responsible dog owners and educate others on how to do the same.
For more information, please feel free to contact us.
