Restricted Dog Breeds in Ireland

Restricted Dog Breeds in Ireland: What Every Dog Owner Should Know

Every dog owner in Ireland must understand the laws around restricted dog breeds. Ireland has procedures in place to ensure the safety of both the dog and the public, these are not bans on certain dog breeds, but rather, the responsible management of these breeds.

At Trendy Paws, we believe that responsible ownership starts with understanding the laws.

What Is a Restricted Dog Breed?

A restricted breed dog can legally be owned in Ireland, but must be controlled under specific conditions. These conditions are detailed in the Control of Dogs Regulations 1998 (S.I. No. 442 of 1998) and pertain to the dog owner’s obligations when the dog is in a public place.  

Restricted breeds are not banned. They can be loyal and affectionate pets, but due to their strength and guarding instincts, owners must exercise extra caution when handling them in public. These laws aim to reduce the risk of incidents and encourage safe dog ownership.

List of Restricted Dog Breeds in Ireland

As per Irish laws, the following breeds and their crossbreeds are restricted:  

  • American Pit Bull Terrier  
  • English Bull Terrier  
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier  
  • Bull Mastiff  
  • Dobermann Pinscher  
  • Rottweiler  
  • German Shepherd (Alsatian)  
  • Rhodesian Ridgeback  
  • Japanese Akita  
  • Japanese Tosa  
  • Bandog (any cross involving the above breeds)  

It may seem that the breeds that are restricted are a lot, but with the right care and training, these dogs can be loyal companions.  

Control Rules for Restricted Breeds

When dogs of restricted breeds are in public, owners must meet certain requirements that are put in place by local councils and dog wardens. These are for the dog owners and public safety.  

A restricted dog must be:  

  • Muzzled in public  
  • On a slip lead not longer than two meters  
  • In the care of a responsible adult (16 and over)  

Ownership requirements state that the dog must:  

  • Have a top quality dog collar and dog harness with visible identification of the owner  
  • Microchipped and registered under the owner  
  • Not allowed to roam freely  

These requirements are for the safety of the public and to keep the reputation of the dog breeds.

The XL Bully Ban and 2025 Update

As of October 1st, 2024, it became illegal to breed, sell, advertise, or rehome XL bullies in Ireland. From February 1st, 2025, all owners will need a Certificate of Exemption to keep an XL
bully legally.  

To qualify for the certificate, owners must ensure their dog is:  

1. Microchipped and licensed  

2. Neutered  

3. Covered by third-party insurance  

4. Muzzled and kept on a lead in public areas  

After that date, keeping an XL bully without an exemption will be illegal. This is the first breed in Ireland to move from restricted to banned status.  

Restricted vs Banned Breeds

It is useful to know the difference: A restricted breed can be owned legally under certain control requirements, while a banned breed cannot be bred, owned, sold, or imported into Ireland.

Ireland is the only country in the EU with a fully banned breed, the XL Bully.

Republic of Ireland vs Northern Ireland Laws

In the Republic of Ireland, the rules differ. For Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and Bull Terriers, the legislation is the same, these breeds are restricted but not banned. In Northern Ireland, regulations regarding certain dog breeds follow the UK Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, which completely bans the following breeds:  

  • Pit Bull Terrier  
  • Dogo Argentino  
  • Fila Brasileiro  
  • Japanese Tosa  
  • XL Bully  

Always ensure to check the relevant local regulations to avoid issues when travelling with your dog. 

Why These Laws Exist

Restrictions on breeds are to promote public safety and responsible dog ownership. Many of the breeds considered “dangerous” are of larger and more powerful stature. Appropriate training and management are key to controlling these breeds.

Owning a Restricted Breed 

Meeting legal ownership requirements does not eliminate the responsibilities associated with owning a restricted/banned breed. These breeds can be very devoted and safe companions, which highlights the need for responsible ownership. 

This includes:  

  • Dog training and socialising from an early age, and maintaining control,  
  • The overall health of the dog to be exercised and kept comfortable.  

All of these and positive practices in general help maintain the reputation of these breeds. At Trendy Paws, we promote awareness to help ensure the safety of dogs and the surrounding community.

Final Note

Every dog owner must understand the legislation on restricted dog breeds in Ireland. These regulations are meant to ensure everyone’s safety while permitting dog owners to exercise their duties sensibly. If these laws are adhered to and followed properly, all breeds of dogs, without exception, will be permitted to live and thrive, happily and safely in our communities.

 

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