Most banned dog breeds by countries updated 2024 XL Bully UK

In the world there are thousands breeds of dogs, many of which were formed by nature, while others, due to the proximity of humans and dogs, were bred by crossing. Among the variety of breeds there are companion and toy dogs, dog-Shepherds, dog-guards, dogs-hounds, and others.

Some of the breeds are now considered to be the dangerous dogs, and in most countries these dogs are banned (illegal dog breeds) or have imposed certain restrictions for keeping them. These prohibitions are regulated by special laws. The main purpose of these laws is to prevent injuries and deaths from dogs’ bites.

Let’s try to understand what countries, and what dogs have introduced bans and restrictions.

Banned dog breeds, list of banned dogs by countries

Banned dog breeds in Poland

In this country since 1997 Pitbull Terriers can be kept only if you are following thorough and effective precautions.

Banned dog breeds in Germany

Since 2001 following dog breeds are officially prohibited:

1. American Pitbull Terrier
2. American Staffordshire Terrier
3. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
4. English Bull Terrier

Banned dog breeds in Denmark

Since 2011 following dog breeds are not allowed to import, cultivation and sale:

1. American Pitbull Terrier
2. American Staffordshire Terrier
3. American Bulldog
4. Alabai
5. Tosa Inu
6. Kangal
7. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
8. Tornjak
9. Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)
10. South-Russian Shepherd
11. Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog
12. Mixes and hybrids of these breeds

Banned dog breeds in Finland

Since 1999 the country entered restrictions on the ownership of dangerous dogs breeds among which are so-called «wolfdogs» except for Czech Wolfdog and the Saarloos Wolfhond.

Banned dog breeds in Spain

The Royal decree of 2002 entered restrictions on dog breeds such as:

1. American Pitbull Terrier
2. American Staffordshire Terrier
3. Dogo Argentino
4. English Bull Terrier
5. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
6. Rottweiler
7. Akita inu
8. Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)
9. Tosa Inu

In order to obtain a license for the housing of these breeds its owner must be of a legal age, have no criminal records, be mentally and physically healthy, as well as get liability insurance for a total of 120 000 euros.

Banned dog breeds in Great Britain

In this country since 1991 enacted the «Act on dangerous dogs», which was completed in 1997. According to this document ban on the cultivation, sale, purchase, exchange and promotionis introduced for the following dogs:

1. American Pitbull Terrier
2. Dogo Argentino
3. Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)
4. Tosa Inu

The above-mentioned breeds must be muzzled and kept on a leash in public places, be registered, have insurance, be spayed, stamped and have a chip.

The law applies to the whole country except for the Northern Ireland.

Banned dog breeds in Ireland

Restrictions on the ownership of dangerous dogs breeds entered in 1998. They must be kept under strict control by people of 16 years or older, be licensed, walked on a short leash (no more than 2 metres) and muzzled in public places. As especially dangerous breeds in Ireland are recognized:

1. American Pitbull Terrier
2. English Bull Terrier
3. Akita Inu
4. Bullmastiff
5. Doberman Pinscher
6. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
7. German Shepherd Dog
8. Rhodesian Ridgeback

Banned dog breeds in France

Since 1999 the country entered restrictions on the ownership of dangerous dogs. These breeds have been divided into two types. In the first type were included breeds, which is not registered in the studbooks and are similar to the characteristics of the following breeds:

• Staffordshire Bull Terriers;
• American Pitbull Terriers;
• dogs of the Mastiff type;
• Tosa Inu.

The second type includes:

• purebred Staffordshire Bull Terriers;
• American Pitbull Terriers;
• Rottweilers and non-pedigreed Rottweilers;
• Tosa Inu.

Banned dog breeds in Italy

In September 2003 Italy has adopted a list of 92 breeds that were prohibited or restricted for keeping. It included even harmless Border Collies and Welsh Corgi. On 14 January 2007 the law was revised and the list of especially dangerous dogs was shortened:

1. American Bulldog
2. Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog
3. Anatolian Shepherd Dog
4. Central Asian Shepherd Dog
5. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
6. Portuguese Sheepdog
7. Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)
8. Dogo Argentino
9. Perro da ganado majorero
10. Dogo Canario
11. Pitbull and all its variants
12. Portuguese Mastiff
13. Rottweiler
14. Tosa Inu

In 2009 the list of restricted breeds was cancelled and today the law requires owners of all to focus on ensuring public safety through walking their dogs on a leash and having a muzzle (even for small breeds).

Updated banned dog breeds in UK (United Kingdom)

As of my last knowledge update in September 2022, the following four breeds are banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 in the United Kingdom. Nonetheless, by year-end, an additional dog, the American XL Bully Dogs, is set to join the roster, as announced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. This breed, witnessing a surge in popularity, accounted for half of the fatal dog attacks in the UK last year.

1. Pit Bull Terrier
2. Japanese Tosa
3. Dogo Argentino
4. Fila Brasileiro
5. American XL Bully will be added by the end of the year 2023

The American XL Bully is a comparatively recent addition to the dog breed spectrum, distinct from many other breeds on the prohibited list, as it was primarily bred for companionship. Numerous voices have opposed the inclusion of XL Bully in the banned list, contending that, when not properly raised, the dog can pose a significant risk. However, in responsible hands, experts recognize it as a trainable breed.

Please be aware that regulations and laws can change over time, and it’s essential to verify the current status of banned breeds in the UK by checking with local authorities or official government sources, as the laws may have been updated or revised since my last knowledge update.

List of banned dogs in Romania

In 2002 the country introduced a restriction on the possession of such species as:

1. Pitbull
2. Boerboel
3. Bandog
4. American Staffordshire Terrier
5. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
6. Rottweiler
7. Tosa Inu
8. Mastino Neapolitano
9. Dogo Argentino

In order to own such dogs you must be at least 18 years, have a certificate from a psychiatrist and judicial resolution.

The import of Bandogs, Boerboels and Pitbulls to Romania is prohibited. And following breeds are required to wear a muzzle: German Shepherd dog, Doberman Pinscher, Belgian Malinois, Dogo Canario, Komondor, Kuvasz, Riesenschnauzer.

List of banned dogs in Norway

From 2004 in this country were banned following dogs:

1. Dogo Argentino
2. American Pitbull Terrier
3. American Staffordshire Terrier
4. Tosa Inu
5. Czechoslovakian Wolfdog
6. Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)

List of banned dog breeds in Switzerland

From 2010 banned breeds include:

1. American Staffordshire Terrier
2. English Bull Terrier
3. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
4. American Pitbull Terrier
5. Bandog
6. All hybrids and mixes of these breeds that have at least 10% of their bloodlines.

List of banned dog breeds in Israel

Since 2004 the import into the country is prohibited for:

1. Dogo Argentino
2. Pitbull Terriers
3. Bull Terriers
4. American Staffordshire Terriers
5. Staffordshire Bull Terriers
6. Rottweilers
7. Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)
8. Tosa Inu.

List of banned dog breeds in Turkey

Since 2004 are not allowed for sale, purchase, advertising and exchange Pitbulls and their mixes, Fila Brasileiros, Dogo Argentinos and Tosa Inus. For the disregard of those rules you will need to pay a fine in the amount of 2 500-3 500 liras. It is important to notice that if you are traveling to Turkey by airplane you have to check the list of banned dogs for transportation via the concrete avia company you are flying with. This list has nothing to do with the list of banned dogs in a country.

List of banned dog breeds in USA

In America there is no Federal law that imposed a ban and restrictions on dangerous breeds of dogs across the country. There is a law that prohibits the conduct of dog fighting, as well as training these dogs for fighting and their movement within the country.
There is a prohibition on the housing of large dogs in the cantonments of the U.S.А. army like Pitbulls, Rottweilers and hybrids of these species. Municipal authorities had taken several hundreds of laws banning the ownership of such dogs as:

1. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
2. American Pitbull Terrier
3. American Staffordshire Terrier
4. Dogo Argentino
5. American Bulldog
6. Tosa Inu
7. Dogo Canario
8. Cane Corso
9. Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)
10. Akita Inu
11. Dogue de Bordeaux
12. Bandog
13. Bullmastiff
14. Doberman Pinscher
15. Ca de Bou (Majorca Mastiff)
16. Kuvasz
17. German Shepherd
18. Mastino Neapolitano
19. Rottweiler
20. Chow Chow
21. Japanese Mastiff
22. Mixtures of wolves
23. Hybrids of the above-mentioned breeds

Limitations of ownership in some States include: the age of the owner must be at least 21 years, the amount of liability insurance must be 100 000 $, prohibition the sale of dangerous dogs, the dog can given only to relatives, at private homes be sure to hang warning signs.

List of banned dog breeds in Canada

In two provinces, Ontario and Manitoba within the city of Winnipeg there is a ban on owning Pitbulls. Winnipeg was the first city that had introduced a ban on these breed of dogs in 1990 after the incident of Pitbulls’ attacks on children. Precautions: sterilization, wearing a muzzle and a leash in public places, banning the import of Pitbulls in the state.

There is no nationwide ban on dangerous dogs in Canada.

List of banned dog breeds in Bermuda Islands

In the country since 2003 were officially banned:

1. Akita Inu
2. American Bulldog
3. American Pitbull Terrier
4. American Staffordshire Terrier
5. Australian Dingo
6. Dogo Argentino
7. Boerboel
8. Bull Terrier and Miniature Bull Terrier
9. Bullmastiff
10. Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)
11. Cane Corso
12. Dogue de Bordeaux
13. English Staffordshire Bull Terrier
14. Danish Broholmer
15. Tosa Inu
16. Mastino Neapolitano
17. Great Dane
18. Dogo Canario
19. Tibetan Mastiff
20. Rottweiler

List of banned dog breeds in Portugal

Breeds prohibited for housing are:

1. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
2. American Staffordshire Terrier
3. Rottweiler
4. Dogo Argentino
5. Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)
6. Tosa Inu
7. Pitbull

List of banned dog breeds in Venezuela

From 2014, the country banned the import, sale and breeding of Pitbulls and their mixes.

List of banned dog breeds in Puerto Rico

Since 1998 is prohibited the importation, sale, possession and breeding of dogs, obtained by crossing Bulldogs and Terriers, and their hybrids.

List of banned dog breeds in Singapore

Since 1991 restrictions were entered on the following dog breeds:

1. American Staffordshire Terrier
2. Pitbull
3. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
4. American Bulldog
5. Mastino Neapolitano
6. Boerboel
7. Dogo Argentino
8. Tosa Inu
9. Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)
10. The mixes of these breeds

Special conditions: sterilization, microchiping, insurance in the amount of not less than 100 000$, in public places a dog must be kept on a short leash and in a muzzle.

List of banned dogs in Malta

Restrictions on the kepping of dangerous dogs breeds were introduced in Malta in 1998. In the list are:

1. Dogo Argentino
2. American Pitbull Terrier
3. Tosa Inu
4. Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)

List of banned dog breeds in New Zealand

The American Pitbull Terrier, Tosa Inu, Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff) and Dogo Argentino since 2003 are subject to mandatory chipping, sterilization, walking on a short leash and muzzled only. Also the import of these dogs.

List of banned dog breeds in Ecuador

Keeping Rottweilers and Pitbull terriers is prohibited since 2009.

List of banned dog breeds in Australia

The import of the following dogs to this continent is strictly prohibited:

1. Dogo Argentino
2. Dogo Canario
3. Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)
4. Pibull Terrier
5. Tosa Inu

Inside the country there are restrictions on ownership of the above-mentioned breeds.

List of banned dog breeds in Russia

On 1st July 2011 the Federal law «About the responsible treatment of animals» entered into force. As dangerous breeds were recognized the following dogs:

1. American Pitbull Terrier
2. South African Boerboel
3. Karelian Bear Dog
4. Anatolian Karabash
5. American Staffordshire Terrier
6. Central Asian Shepherd
7. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
8. Mixes of the above-mentioned breeds

All these dogs are subject to mandatory registration. The housing and walking of especially dangerous breeds is prohibited for disabled people; people who do not have a certificate of going through a special education; minors.

List of banned dog breeds in Ukraine

In this country since 1998 operates a restrictive law on dangerous breed. Today this lust includes more than 80 dogs. The civil liability insurance, microchipping, walking on a short leash and muzzle are obligatory.

The local government act allows you to enter additional restrictions in local legislation. In the list of especially dangerous dogs in Ukraine were included:

1. Atlas Shepherd (Aidi)
2. Hokkaido (Ainu)
3. Akbash
4. Akita Inu
5. American Akita
6. Bergamo Shepherd (Bergamasco)
7. German Boxer
8. Briard
9. Danish Broholmer
10. Bouvier des Ardennes
11. Bouvier des Flandre
12. Alapaha Bulldog (Otto)
13. American Bulldog
14. Ca de Bou (Majorca Mastiff)
15. Bullmastiff
16. English Bull Terrier
17. American Staffordshire Terrier
18. Boerboel
19. Welsh Terrier
20. Karst Shepherd
21. American-Canadian White Shepherd
22. Belgian Shepherd (Belgian Malinois)
23. Bernese Sennenhund
24. Large Swiss Shepherd
25. Dutch Shepherd
26. Greek Sheepdog
27. Portuguese Mountain Dog
28. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
29. German Shepherd Dog
30. South-Russian Shepherd Dog
31. Berger Picard
32. Tatra Shepherd Dog
33. Central Asian Shepherd dog (Alabai)
34. East European Shepherd
35. Irish Wolfhound
36. Doberman Pinscher
37. Dogo Argentino
38. Dog de Bordeaux
39. Great Dane
40. Dalmatian
41. German Wirehaired Pointer
42. Airedale Terrier
43. Kangal
44. Cane Corso
45. Cao de Castro Laboreiro
46. Cao de Cera da Estrela
47. Anatolian Karabash
48. Komondor
49. Kuvasz Hungarian
50. Labrador Retriever
51. Landseer (black and white Newfoundland)
52. Laika
53. Leonberger
54. Alaskan Malamute
55. Maremma and the Abruzzes Sheepdog
56. English Mastiff
57. Belgian Mastiff
58. Spanish Mastiff
59. Pyrenean Mastiff
60. Tibetan Mastiff
61. Mastino Neapolitano
62. Mittelschnauzer
63. Moscow Watchdog
64. Newfoundland
65. Perro de Dogo Canario
66. American Pitbull Terrier
67. Rafeiro of Alentejo
68. Rhodesian Ridgeback
69. Thai Ridgeback
70. Riesenschnauzer
71. Rottweiler
72. St. Bernard
73. Italian Wolf Dog (Lupo Italiano)
74. Saarloos wolfdog
75. Czechoslovakian Wolfdog
76. Pyrenean Mountain Dog
77. Black Russian Terrier
78. Tosa Inu
79. Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)
80. Fox Terrier
81. Siberian Husky
82. Hovawart
83. Slovakian Chuvach
84. Jagdterrier
85. Mixes all of all the above-metioned breeds

List of banned dog breeds in Belarus

In 2012 the country adopted the law «About the treatment of animals», which contains requirements for the keeping especially dangerous dog breeds. Main requirements are to keep such dogs in the premises from which the animal cannot get out, keep it on a leash or in a securely fenced area with a warning, wearing hard leash and collar, and a muzzle.

The walking with potentially dangerous breeds of dogs is prohibited to people less than 18 years of age, and in the absence of the certificate of training courses on maintenance, breeding and caring for dogs.

The list of potentially dangerous dogs in Belarus:

1. Australian Boar Dog
2. Ainu
3. Akbash
4. American Pitbull Terrier
5. American Staffordshire Terrier
6. Anatolian Karabash
7. English Mastiff
8. Belgian Mastiff
9. Dogue de Bordeaux
10. Pakistani Mastiff (Bully Kutta)
11. Bullmastiff
12. Bull Terrier
13. Bandog
14. East European Shepherd
15. Gorski Hunting Dog
16. Greek Sheepdog
17. Doberman Vladika Roshini
18. Doberman Pinscher
19. Caucasian Shepherd Dog
20. Dogo Canario
21. Kangal
22. Cane Corso
23. Kangaroo dog
24. Komondor
25. Karelian Shepherd Dog
26. Berger du Languedoc
27. Leopard hound
28. Maremma and the Abruzzes Sheepdog
29. Ca de Bou (Majorca Mastiff)
30. Moscow Watchdog
31. Mastino Neapolitano
32. Great Dane
33. German Shepherd Dog
34. Pyrenean Mastiff
35. Rafeiro of Alentejo
36. Riesenschnauzer
37. Rottweiler
38. Romanian Shepherd
39. Central Asian Shepherd dog
40. Tibetan Mastiff
41. Tosa Inu
42. Uruguayan Cimarron
43. Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)
44. Black Russian Terrier
45. South-Russian Shepherd

11 banned dog breeds in India

Some dog breeds are frequently labeled as extremely aggressive, dangerous, and threatening, despite the fact that any dog breed can become potentially dangerous and aggressive. Laws governing various dog breeds continue to be enforced around the world in an effort to reduce their population. Today we put up a list of dog breeds that are prohibited in India, so let’s get started:

1. American Bulldog
2. Bandog
3. Neapolitan Mastiff
4. Wolf dog
5. Boerboel
6. Presa Canario
7. Fila Brasileiro
8. Tosa Inu
9. Pitbull
10. Cane Corso
11. Dogo Argentino

Thus, if there is no strictly prohibition on the housing of dangerous breeds of dogs, people may keep a pet, strictly observing the rules of restrictions on ownership, walk their dogs on a leash and be sure to put a muzzle on them in public places.

Read also in our articles:

• Top most dangerous dogs in the world
• Top most aggressive dogs in the world