Bobby Aylward (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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885. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to re-assess the breed of German shepherd's current classification as a dangerous dog under the Control of Dogs Regulations 1998, with a view to a possible downgrade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29189/15]

Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour)
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The Control of Dogs Acts 1986 to 2010 places the onus on dog owners and those in control of dogs to act responsibly by keeping their dogs under effectual control, irrespective of breed. Such responsible dog ownership is the key to reducing incidences of problem behaviours. In addition, the Control of Dogs Regulations 1998 (as amended) require that 10 specific breeds of dogs, including the German Shepherd (Alsatian), and crosses of the breeds, must be muzzled and led on a sufficiently strong leash or chain not exceeding 2m in length by a competent person over 16 years of age when in a public place.

The specific control requirements for these restricted breeds are a balanced and workable arrangement which recognises the rights of dog owners and respects animal welfare to the extent possible, while also taking account of the needs of society to be protected from dogs with a significant capability to inflict very serious injury, or cause death.

I have no plans to amend the Control of Dogs Acts 1986 to 2010, or the Control of Dogs Regulations 1998 (as amended), in respect of these matters.