Aggression to people can have far-reaching implications due to the impact this can have for both you and your dog due to the Dangerous Dogs Act (DDA) and its effects when enforced.

More details can be found regarding an overview of dangerous dogs in public here.

It is an offence for the owner or the person in charge of a dog to allow a dog to be 'dangerously out of control' in a public place, a place where it is not allowed to be, and some other areas. The law has also been amended to incorporate your home, so the reach of this act now goes even further.

A dangerously out of control dog can be defined as a dog that has injured someone, or where a person has grounds for reasonable apprehension that the dog could harm them.

When a dog in your charge chases, barks at or jumps up at a person or child it could lead to a complaint, so ensure that your dog is under control at all times. If your dog injures a person, it could be seized by the police and your penalty may include a prison sentence and/or a ban on keeping dogs.

There is also an automatic presumption that your dog will be destroyed unless you can convince the court the dog is not a danger to the public, in which case it may be subject to a control order. You may also have to pay a fine, compensation and costs.

The following breeds are banned under the Dangerous Dog Act:- American Pit Bull Terriers, Fila Brasileiro, Dogo Argentino and Japanese Tosa. Information on banned dogs can be seen here. I fear that this list may expand in years to come due to the poor management of certain breeds when in the wrong hands. Any dog is capable of aggressive behaviour, the seriousness of this behaviour cannot be underestimated due to the underlying implications. All aggressive behaviour takes time and patience to address, and even then requires a thorough management plan to ensure ongoing safety.