The Dangerous Dogs Act applies to all dog owners no matter what size or breed, whether your pet is a Chihuahua, a Cockapoo or a Collie cross. It is a criminal offence for the person in charge of a dog to allow it to be ‘dangerously out of control’ in a public place.

What is classed as a dog attack?

It is an attack if a dog:

• rushes at
• attacks
• bites
• harasses or chases any person or animal (other than vermin), whether or not any injury is caused to the person or animal

Dog attack on a person

If a dog has attacked or bitten a person, this should be reported to the police by calling 101 (999 if someone is in immediate danger).

Dog on dog attacks

If a dog attacks an assistance dog this is classed as an offence, and should be reported to the police by calling 101 (999 if someone is in immediate danger).

You may also want to report the matter to the police directly if you class the incident to be serious, for example resulting in a dog needing veterinary treatment or losing its life. Call 101 (999 if someone is in immediate danger).

To help an investigation into an incident the following information is needed:

• date and time of incident
• place of incident
• full description of dog(s) involved, such as breed, colour with identifying marks, sex
• description of owner or person in charge of dog(s)
• address of owner if known
• contact details of any witnesses if you have these

Following submission of your report, you may be required to supply a statement.