American staff, tosa, rottweiller… Owners of dogs considered potentially dangerous must comply with a certain number of legal obligations. Explanations.
Whether category 1 (from crossbreeds) or category 2 (for purebred dogs), these dogs considered dangerous must undergo a behavioral assessment by a licensed veterinarian. This then sets a level of danger, which goes from 1 to 4. Level 4 requires an evaluation of the dog every year and can lead to the killing of the animal.
This assessment is sent to the mayor of the owner’s municipality, who is responsible for issuing a keeping permit for this type of dog.
A certificate of suitability
This control system is supplemented by a mandatory fitness certificate, which the owner – he must not have a criminal record to own such a dog – will obtain after seven hours of training, which takes place with a dog trainer approved by the prefecture.
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“There is a theoretical part about the law, the psychology of the dog and the relationship between the master and the animal, explains Célia Evrard, dog trainer from Instincanin, based in Montargois and scenarios to learn how to train your dog, most owners are not always aware of the problems that they may encounter with this type of animal.
“Not necessarily these dogs that bite the most”
However, the expert warns against systematic stigmatization of these dogs. “It’s not necessarily these dogs that bite the most. The Labrador, for example, everyone considers him to be a very nice dog, but if you don’t respect him, there can be problems.”
This strengthened legislation in recent years around Staffordshires and Rottweillers necessarily limits their circulation. Legislation from which the American bully flees, which is not listed in the dangerous categories,” notes Célia Evrard.
“There are a lot of inquiries about the bully today. It’s a newer breed, it’s not categorized as an attack or defense dog. It has the physique but without the limitations.”
Leash and muzzle required
The pedagogue clarifies that an approved veterinarian may, however, be obliged to make a decision on the animal’s dangerousness based on its appearance (muscles, jaw, etc.), even if it is not listed as such.
Finally, it must be remembered that dogs in categories 1 and 2 must be kept on a leash and muzzled on public roads against fines.
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