What dog breeds are not allowed?
Sarah Oconnor
Updated on March 02, 2026
Here’s a list of the most commonly banned breeds:
- German shepherds.
- Pit bull terriers.
- Cane corsos.
- Rottweilers.
- Staffordshire terriers.
- Akitas.
- Mastiffs.
- Great Danes.
Is Pitbull banned in Australia?
Pit bull terriers have been banned from importation into Australia for over 15 years but there are some living in Australia from before the ban. There are also many cross-breed dogs that look similar to pit bull terriers.
Is Doberman legal in Australia?
The Doberman Pinscher is a medium to large, deep-chested dog breed with a sleek and sturdy appearance. The breed is muscular and athletic, possessing great strength and endurance. Much controversy has surrounded the practice of ear cropping and tail docking in dogs and Australia has thankfully outlawed both practices.
What dog breeds are allowed in Australia?
Breed Specific Legislation (Australia)
- dogo Argentino;
- fila Brasileiro;
- Japanese tosa;
- American pit bull terrier or pit bull terrier;
- Perro de Presa Canario or Presa Canario.
What is an aggressive breed of dog?
Akitas, Australian cattle dogs, Australian shepherds, German shepherds, Jack Russell terriers, and pit bulls were more aggressive towards other dogs than most. Australian cattle dogs, Australian shepherds, Doberman pinschers, and German shepherds (but not pit bulls) were rated as more aggressive towards strangers.
Are Rottweilers banned?
Rottweiler. Ecuador and the Bermuda Islands have both banned Rottweilers as pets because they deem them to be territorial and potentially dangerous. Other countries such as Ireland, Portugal, Romania and Singapore have also placed restrictions on the ownership of this breed.
Are German Shepherds allowed in Australia?
German Shepherds first arrived in Australia between 1923 and 1929 but then the government imposed import bans which were not lifted until 1972 because the dogs were believed to be dangerous.
Are Kangal dogs legal in Australia?
There are no general restrictions on other dog breeds that are banned in some other countries (such as Tibetan mastiffs, the American bully, Dobermans, and Kangal dogs).
What dogs are restricted in NSW?
In NSW, there are five breeds of restricted dogs that can no longer be sold or given away – American pit bull or pit bull terriers, Japanese Tosas, Dogo Argentino (Argentinean fighting dogs), Fila Brasiliero (Brazilian fighting dogs) and Perro de Presa Canario or Presa Canario dogs.
Are dogs banned in Australia for fighting?
Australia has a ban on aggressive dog breeds that were specifically bred for fighting. Importing these breeds to Australia is not permitted by law. This ban is in place to safeguard the public and other animals. Dog breeds that are banned in Australia are:
Are Pitbulls banned in Australia?
Australia has a ban on aggressive dog breeds that were specifically bred for fighting. Importing these breeds to Australia is not permitted by law. This ban is in place to safeguard the public and other animals. Dog breeds that are banned in Australia are: Pit Bull Terrier breeds, including American Pit Bull Terrier.
What is a restricted breed dog in Australia?
RESTRICTED BREEDS. Under the legislation, a “restricted breed dog” is defined as a breed whose importation into Australia is prohibited under the Commonwealth Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956.
Are there any breeds of dogs that are banned in England?
No banned breeds but restrictions apply to the following breeds: American Pitbull Terrier, Bull Mastiff, Doberman, Pinscher, English Bull Terrier, German Shepherd (Alsatian), Japanese Akita, Japanese Tosa, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Rottweiler and Staffordshire Bull Terrier