Why are Dogo Argentinos banned in the UK?

DOGO ARGENTINOS are known for their large stature and impressive strength but are illegal in the UK.

The breed is one of five types of dogs that have been banned by the British government.

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What is a Dogo Argentino?

Dogo Argentinos are a large breed of dog that originated in Argentina.

They are sometimes known as the Argentinian Mastiff or the Argentine Dogo.

They were first bred in the early twentieth century in Córdoba, central Argentina, and were used primarily for dog-fighting.

The dogs were also used for hunting pumas and other wild animals.

Breed specific legislation has been in force now for 32 years, and is still failing.

RSPCA dog welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines

Dogo Argentinos are also trained for search and rescue, police assistance, can be service dogs, and provide guidance for the blind.

They have also been known to participate in competitive obedience and military work.

They are loyal and protective and are not generally aggressive despite their hunting skills.

There have been instances of the breed injuring humans, and some situations have even ended in death.

Why are Dogo Argentino dogs banned in the UK?

Dogo Argentino dogs are one of five breeds of dog that are banned in the UK.

The others that are banned are the Pitbull terrier, the Japanese Tosa, the Fila Brasileiro and the American XL Bully.

From December 31, 2023, it has been illegal to breed, sell or abandon XL Bullies.

Owners must have their XL Bullies microchipped, muzzled and kept on a lead in public as part of the new legislation.

From February 1, 2024, it is also a criminal offence to be in possession of an XL Bully in England and Wales – unless you have applied for an exemption.

The legislation prohibiting Dogo Argentinos from being allowed in the UK was brought in as a response to a number of incidents involving sometimes unprovoked attacks by certain breeds of dogs on humans.

This is now known as the Dangerous Dogs Act.

Dogo Arentinos were added to the act due to the dog’s strength, intelligence, and hunting tendencies.

For these reasons, only breed experts should come into contact with a Dogo Argentino.

When were Dogo Argentinos banned in the UK?

Dogo Argentinos were banned in the UK when the Dangerous Dogs Act was brought in by the UK government in 1991.

There are a few exemptions to the ban that may allow owners to continue having the illegal breeds as pets.

If you can prove a dog is safe, despite it being a banned breed, then you can get a certificate of exemption.

This means you can keep it, but you have to get special insurance.

You’ve also got to be over 16, and keep the dog muzzled in public.

The Dangerous Dogs Act has been criticised by groups such as the RSPCA, who suggest it is unfair to judge a dog based on their breed rather than their behaviour.

In 2023 RSPCA dog welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines said: “Breed specific legislation has been in force now for 32 years, and is still failing.

“We have been devastated by some recent dog bite incidents, which have been tragic events and highlight the need for urgent action and a change in approach.

“But simply adding another dog breed type to the already flawed approach of banning certain types of dog because of how they look clearly isn’t the answer.”

Are Dogo Argentinos banned in any other countries?

Yes, Dogo Argentinos are banned in several other countries across the world.

Ownership of this breed is illegal – or restricted – in Australia, Spain, the Cayman Islands, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Norway, and Turkey.

Are Dogo Argentino cross breeds illegal in the UK?

Crossbreeds may also be subject to the law, depending on their size and characteristics.

Whether a dog is considered illegal or not can depend on what it looks like, not just its breed.

This means that if a dog shares physical characteristics with one of the five banned breeds, it could be considered illegal.

This assessment of the physical characteristics is made by a Dog Legislation Officer.

These are police officers experienced in dog handling and dog legislation, who assist in the investigation of dog-related allegations of crime.

Animal rights groups have criticised this ruling, as dogs can be killed simply based on their looks and size, rather than their behaviour.