Report a dangerous dog

It is an offence for any dog to be dangerously out of control, whether on public property, private property or the owner's home.

The person in charge of the dog may be prosecuted and fined up to £5,000. Police could seize the dog and, in severe cases, obtain a court order for the destruction of the dog.

Call 999 if you are bitten or attacked by a dog, or fear that you may be injured as a result of a dog being dangerously out of control.

You can also report this to Surrey Police using their online anti-social behaviour form.

Report a dangerous dog - Surrey Police

We have a responsibility to investigate any incidents involving dog aggression, either to people or other animals. If you report a dangerous dog to the police, you should also contact us.

Email: environmental.health@woking.gov.uk 

Seek medical help if you have been bitten by a dog. Check if your anti-tetanus inoculation is out of date, as a booster is normally required every 10 years.

Banned breeds of dog

The following breeds are listed as banned breeds under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• Japanese Tosa
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Brasilero
• XL Bully dogs 

It is illegal to own a banned breed without a certificate of exemption. This is granted once the dog is neutered, insured and has a microchip implanted.

It is also an offence to sell, abandon, gift, breed and re-home a dog of a banned breed, or allow them to stray. 

These dogs must be kept on a lead by someone aged 16 and over. They must also be muzzled when in a public place. 

Find out more about the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 - Legislation.gov.uk.

Find out more about the ban on XL Bully dogs - GOV.UK.

Find out what the XL Bully dog ban means for owners - Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

Find out more about caring for your dog - RSPCA.