The new licence requirements will oblige a new owners of a classified 'dangerous' dog to attend training classes, as well as obtain a veterinary certificate.

Existing owners of a dangerous dog will also be required to take a test of competence, and the dog itself may be subject to an annual test of behaviour and a veterinary examination.

The law is to be changed following the death of a 10 year old child living in Picardie who was attacked by two Great Danes.

Zero Tolerance of Bites

The announcement includes a proposal that the local mairie be notified by the owner or vet should anyone be bitten by a dog. The requirement will apply irrespective of the type of dog, or the severity of the bite.

Increased powers will be given to local councils, who will be able to order that the dog undergoes behavioural checks and its owner be required to attend training classes. In extreme circumstances, the local mayor will be able to order that the dog be put down.

Pit Bulls May be Banned

Classified dangerous dogs are already subject to tight regulation, including compulsory insurance, veterinary certificates, registration with the local council and muzzling in public places.

However, pressure is mounting on the government to take drastic action to deal with the growth in injuries and fatalities resulting from dog attacks.

It may well be that pit-bull dogs will be outlawed altogether in the future, with owners forced to put down their pets.

Doubts Being Raised About the Proposals

Whist canine pressure groups welcome a tightening of the regulations in relation to education and training, they are concerned about the strength of the proposals against dangerous dogs, pointing out, in particular, that the tragic death of the child in Picardie was from a type of dog not classified a dangerous.

There is also widespread concern about the practicality of the proposals. There are around 8 million dogs in the country, of whom around 100,000 are classified as dangerous. As yet, it is unclear just who will be authorised to issue the certificates of competence to owners, or to certify that the behaviour of a dog is satisfactory.

Vets have expressed concern that they are going to be placed in the unwelcome position of having to denounce their clients to the local council, or to insist that a dog is put down.

The sheer volume of work may well engulf the dog training and veterinary professions.

One thing is for sure, now might be the time to consider starting a dog training school!