Question 1

What is breed-specific legislation?

Accepted Answer

Breed-specific legislation, commonly called BSL, refers to laws that regulate or ban certain dog breeds based on their appearance rather than individual behavior. These laws typically target breeds like pit bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and Dobermans. BSL can range from outright bans that require the removal or euthanasia of dogs to restrictions that mandate muzzling, special insurance, or confinement requirements. Over 1,000 jurisdictions in the United States have some form of BSL in place, though a growing number of cities and states have repealed their breed bans after examining the evidence of their ineffectiveness.

Question 2

Does breed-specific legislation reduce dog bites?

Accepted Answer

Multiple peer-reviewed studies and government reports have concluded that BSL does not reduce dog bite rates. A comprehensive study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior found no significant difference in dog bite incidence before and after breed bans were implemented. The United Kingdom enacted a nationwide pit bull ban in 1991, yet hospital admissions for dog bites increased steadily in the following decades. Similar results were documented in Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands, which all repealed their breed-specific laws after finding them ineffective. The American Veterinary Medical Association, the CDC, and the American Kennel Club all oppose BSL based on the available scientific evidence.

Question 3

Are herding breeds affected by breed-specific legislation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, herding breeds are increasingly targeted by breed-specific legislation. German Shepherds are specifically named in BSL regulations in numerous jurisdictions worldwide, including parts of Ireland, Bermuda, and the Maldives. Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds have also been added to restricted breed lists in some areas. Even breeds not specifically named can be affected because visual breed identification is unreliable. Studies have shown that even animal professionals correctly identify a dog's breed by appearance only about 25 percent of the time. This means herding breed mixes or dogs that simply resemble a restricted breed can be seized and subjected to breed restrictions.

Question 4

What can I do if my dog is threatened by BSL?

Accepted Answer

If BSL threatens your dog, take several immediate steps. First, document your dog's breed through DNA testing, which provides objective evidence of actual breed composition. Obtain your dog's Canine Good Citizen certification or equivalent to demonstrate responsible ownership. Contact local breed-specific rescue organizations and advocacy groups who often have legal resources and experience fighting BSL. Attend city council or county board meetings where breed legislation is discussed and bring factual, science-based arguments. Connect with organizations like the National Canine Research Council, Best Friends Animal Society, or the American Kennel Club's Government Relations department, all of which provide advocacy toolkits and may offer direct legal support.

Breed-Specific Legislation Fails Dogs and Communities

Understanding the Fight Against BSL

What is BSL and Why It Does Not Work

The Science Against Breed Bans

Herding Breeds and BSL: The Unexpected Targets

Fighting BSL: How Communities Have Won

What to Do If BSL Threatens Your Dog

Brian Kowalski

Your Dog Could Be Next