New legal requirements for owners of banned dog breeds came into effect on 1 November 2026, introducing stricter rules around children and dogs in the home.
The new rules mean that owners of banned dog types must ensure children under the age of 12 are not left in close contact with their dogs in private places, including homes and gardens, without adult supervision.
The changes are intended to reduce the risk of dog-related injuries to children, particularly in domestic environments where many incidents occur.
What are the new rules?
Under the new requirements, an adult aged 18 or over must be present whenever a child under 12 is in close contact with a banned dog type.
The adult must remain close enough to monitor interactions, recognise potential risks and intervene immediately if necessary.
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has made it clear that cameras, baby monitors and other monitoring devices are not acceptable substitutes for direct adult supervision.
Owners are also advised to plan ahead for everyday situations when supervision may be interrupted, such as cooking, answering the door, taking telephone calls or caring for other children.
Which dogs are affected?
The legislation applies to five banned dog types:
- Pit Bull Terrier
- Japanese Tosa
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
- XL Bully
Under existing legislation, it is illegal to breed, sell, abandon or give away these dogs. Owners who are legally permitted to keep a banned dog must hold a valid Certificate of Exemption and comply with the relevant conditions.
Importantly, whether a dog is considered a banned type is determined by its physical characteristics rather than its breed name or pedigree.
Recognising when dogs need space
Defra has also highlighted the importance of recognising situations in which dogs may feel uncomfortable, stressed or overwhelmed.
Owners should be particularly careful when dogs are eating, sleeping, resting, unwell or attempting to move away from interaction.
Where appropriate supervision cannot be maintained, children and dogs should be safely separated using closed doors, stair gates or other suitable physical barriers.
What are the penalties?
Keeping a banned dog unlawfully is a criminal offence and can result in an unlimited fine, a prison sentence of up to six months, or both. The dog may also be subject to a destruction order.
These penalties relate to offences under existing dangerous dogs legislation and should not be confused with an automatic penalty for every breach of the new supervision requirements.
Responsible ownership and child safety
Although the new requirements specifically concern banned dog types, the wider message about child safety is relevant to all dog owners.
Any dog can become uncomfortable or react unpredictably in certain circumstances, particularly when frightened, in pain or unable to move away.
Ensuring children understand how to behave around dogs, recognising canine body language and providing appropriate adult supervision are important steps in reducing the risk of injury.
Dog owners can find further information about banned dog legislation, exemption requirements and responsible ownership through the Government’s official guidance.
