Dangerous Dog Regulations and Legislation in NSW

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The Companion Animals Regulation 2018 in New South Wales demands that dog owners with declared dangerous, declared menacing dogs and restricted dogs to comply with the Act's requirements or face large fines for each offence.
We have compiled some of the most important facts and requirements for dog owners in NSW so that they may comply with the legislation. This Fact Sheet for Dangerous Dogs in NSW is a guide for dog owners. For more information, contact your local council.

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Table of Contents

Dangerous, Menacing and Restricted Dogs in NSW - Which dogs are Dangerous?
Restricted Dog Breeds in NSW - What breeds are Restricted?
Breeding Restricted Dogs - Can I breed my dog?
Dangerous Dog Collars, Muzzles and Warning Signs - How do I identify a Dangerous dog?
Owner requirements for Dangerous Dogs - How do I comply?

Dangerous Dogs and Restricted Dogs in NSW

The Act identifies 3 types of Dangerous Dogs in New South Wales. Any breed can be declared Dangerous or Menacing.

Declared Dangerous Dogs
Declared Menacing Dogs
Restricted Dogs

Restricted Dog List in New South Wales

American pitbull terrier or Pitbull terrier
Japanese tosa
Dogo Argentino (Argentinean Fighting Dog)
Fila Brasiliero (Brazilian Fighting Dog)
Any other dog of a breed whose importation to Australia is prohibited by the Customs Act 1901 of the Commonwealth. (Perro de Presa Canario or Presa Canario)
Any dog declared by an authorised officer of a council under Division 6 of the Companion Animals Regulation 1998.

Breeding Restricted Dogs in NSW - Are they allowed?

Absolutely not. It is compulsory that all restricted dogs are sterilised. Notify your local council if you own a restricted dog. Selling, buying, giving, accepting or advertising restricted dogs are prohibited and are offences that are punishable by law.

Dangerous Dog Identifier - How do I identify them in NSW?

Declared Dangerous Dogs, Menacing Dogs, and Restricted Dogs are required to wear the specially prescribed Dangerous Dog Collar that must be worn at all times. The design consists of red and yellow diagonal stripes at a 45-degree angle where at least 1 colour is fluorescent for visibility in the dark. These collars vary in 3 different sizes depending on the weight of the dog.

Other than that, Dangerous Dogs, Menacing Dogs, and Restricted Dogs are required to be muzzled and on a leash at all times when in public to prevent any biting incidents. When entering a property with a Dangerous, Menacing or Restricted Breed, you will see Dangerous Dog Signs specific for NSW are displayed on all entrances and near the area or enclosure where the dog is ordinarily kept. The text "Warning Dangerous Dog" should be legible enough so it can easily be seen.

NSW Requirements for Dog Owners - How to comply with the Act?

If you are an owner of a Dangerous Dog, Menacing Dog or a Restricted Dog, you are required to comply with the following requirements or face large fines. Below are some of the major requirements for Dangerous Dogs. If you need more specific information, check out the Dangerous Dog Act page for NSW or contact your local council for more details.

A declared dangerous dog, menacing dog, and restricted dogs are required to wear a special Dangerous Dog Collar for easy identification. They are available in 3 sizes to comply with NSW legislation.
- ---- 25mm for dogs weighing less than 20kg
- ---- 40mm for dogs weighing between 20kg and 40kg
- ---- 50mm for dogs weighing more than 40kg
A special Dangerous Dog Warning Sign must be prominently displayed on the premises where the dangerous dog is ordinarily kept.
The dog must always wear a Muzzle and must be securely attached to a leash at all times when in public.
A dangerous dog must be contained in an enclosure that complies with clause 24 of the Companion Animals Regulation 2008.

The information contained on this page is meant as a general guide and general advice only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. We recommend people follow the instructions of their local government department. These materials are intended, but not promised or guaranteed to be current, complete, or up-to-date and should in no way be taken as an indication of future results. The Dog Line offers this information freely and takes no responsibility for its accuracy. For more details, please contact your local council.