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Restricted Breeds

Dog breeds requiring extra control in public including lead, muzzle, and identification requirements.

Dogs Requiring Special Care:

Under the Control of Dogs Regulations 1998, the following breeds (including their strains and crosses) are subject to additional control measures in public places:

  • American Pit Bull Terrier
  • Bull Mastiff
  • Doberman Pinscher
  • English Bull Terrier
  • German Shepherd (Alsatian)
  • Japanese Akita
  • Japanese Tosa
  • Rhodesian Ridgeback
  • Rottweiler
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier
  • Ban Dog (Bandog)

Legal Requirements for These Breeds in Public:

  • Must be kept on a short, strong lead (not exceeding 2 metres)
  • Must be muzzled at all times in public
  • Must be led by a person over 16 years of age who is capable of controlling the dog
  • Must wear a collar with the owner's name and address inscribed or attached

These rules are in place to ensure public safety and responsible dog ownership.

View the restricted dog breed types and images here: 

Contact our Environment team

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Environment Department
Áras an Chontae
Prospect Hill
Co. Galway
H91 H6KX

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Sunday Closed
Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Saturday Closed