Breed-specific legislation targeting dogs based on physical characteristics creates welfare concerns for affected dogs and their owners without clear evidence of effectiveness.
Dogs seized under breed-specific legislation suffer significant welfare harms. Extended kennel stays cause stress, behavioural deterioration and in some cases euthanasia of dogs with no aggression history. The distress of separation from owners is considerable for social animals. For exempt dogs, muzzling requirements in public restrict normal social behaviour. The welfare costs of breed-specific legislation are substantial while evidence of public safety benefit is limited, making reform a genuine welfare and evidence-based policy priority.