Why Even the Friendliest Dogs Can Get Owners in Legal Trouble
Many dog owners feel confident that their pet would never harm anyone. But in the UK, it is not just aggressive behaviour or a bite that can get you into legal trouble. Even a friendly dog could put its owner at risk if the law considers the animal to be “dangerously out of control”.
Understanding how the law works, and taking simple steps to prevent misunderstandings, is essential for every responsible dog owner.
The Law That Catches Owners Out
Section 3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 states that if a dog is dangerously out of control in a public or private place, the owner or person in charge is committing an offence. What many do not realise is that a bite does not need to occur. If someone feels threatened by your dog, that can be enough for prosecution.
This law applies everywhere, including your own home, and covers all breeds. Perhaps most surprising is that saying “no” to someone who asks to pet your dog is not a legal defence. If they approach anyway and the dog reacts, you could still be held responsible.
Everyday Situations That Can Lead to Trouble
The Responsible Dog Ownership Course (RDOC), run by Blue Cross, sees owners referred for incidents that often start with everyday scenarios, such as:
● Off-lead encounters in the park: A dog rushes over, a scuffle breaks out, and someone gets injured while separating them.
● Livestock chasing: A lapse in recall results in a dog chasing or harming farm animals, which is a criminal offence.
● Visitors at home: A delivery driver or guest feels threatened by your dog, even without any physical contact.
In many of these cases, owners are shocked to learn the law applies to them.
Lessons from the RDOC
The RDOC was designed to help owners understand the law, improve control and recall, and reduce the risk of incidents. It covers dog body language, safe walking practices, and practical handling techniques for high-risk situations.
Many attendees of the RDOC come from all walks of life, often after incidents they considered to be minor. The course helps them understand how quickly situations can escalate, the potential legal consequences, and the practical steps they can take to prevent problems in the future.
You can find more details about the RDOC here: Blue Cross Responsible Dog Ownership Course.
How to Stay Out of Trouble
While some situations are unpredictable, there are steps every owner can take to reduce risk:
● Use a short lead in public areas, especially around other dogs, children, or livestock
● Practise reliable recall in different environments and with distractions
● Learn to recognise your dog’s stress signals, such as lip licking, yawning, or turning away
● Avoid letting your dog approach others without clear consent
● Stay alert and scan ahead on walks to spot potential issues early
Even well-trained, sociable dogs can find themselves in situations that trigger the law. By understanding the risks, staying alert, and maintaining good control, you can protect both your dog and yourself from legal trouble.
