Change the DDA 1991 to stop breed bans and focus on behaviour
We ask the Government to reform the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 by removing breed-specific legislation and replacing it with behaviour-based laws. We think legislation should focus on responsible ownership, training, and education to improve public safety without unfairly targeting certain dog breeds.
Signatures
14,623
signatures
Government response threshold (10,000) · 10,000/10,000 · reached
Debate threshold (100,000) · 14,623/100,000
- 23 MAR 2026Petition closedFinal total: 14,623 signatures
- 08 JAN 2026Government respondedDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural AffairsGovernment reply
The ban on certain breed types under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 is there to protect public safety. More broadly, the government remains committed to promoting responsible dog ownership for all dogs.
Read full response - 14 DEC 202510,000 signatures reachedEligible for a government response
- 23 SEPT 2025Petition opened for signatures
Background
Evidence suggests breed-specific laws have not reduced dog attacks and we consider they unfairly punish dogs based on looks, not behaviour. Data shows aggression is linked to ownership and training. We believe we need effective, evidence-based laws that focus on behaviour, enforce accountability, and support public education to truly keep people safe.