How many dog attacks have there been in New Zealand?
ACC deal with about 10,000 dog bite claims each year in New Zealand. However, not all dog bites require medical attention. I would estimate that this figure could be doubled to 20,000
What are the pros & cons of banning dangerous dog breeds
in New Zealand?
The main influence for dog aggression is the present environment (ie: the owner). Breed is only one factor influencing aggression (see below). Breed is an important factor but enforcement would be very difficult. If you were able to enforce it, the dogs would simply be replaced with another dangerous breed.
For example - American Pit Bull Terriers (bred to fight other dogs) are causing most of the serious dog attack problems at the moment. If American Pit Bull Terriers were banned and wiped out, the same irresponsible people may choose the next macho breed such as Rottweilers (bred as human guard dogs). As a result, the problem may become worse.
Why do they attack?
Most dog bites are by the victim’s own dog. This comes from dysfunctional relationships where the dog is given equal rights and is treated like a little human. This contradicts nature and creates a frustrated animal. It creates a hierarchical relationship between dogs and humans which should not exist.
With regard to dog bites that are not by the victim’s own dog (the ones usually dealt with by Councils) we refer to what we call the three 'P's of aggression:
Personality - We all have different personalities, so do dogs.
Potential - Fighting, guarding and hunting dogs have a higher prey drive than companion dogs. They will therefore revert to predatory behaviour such as chasing, biting, attacking and reacting to movement, a lot more quickly.
Placement - The present environment (ie: the current conditions under which the dog lives) has the biggest influence over behaviour.
What laws are already in place regarding dangerous dog breeds
in New Zealand?
The owner of any dog that attacks can be prosecuted and fined up to 3 years imprisonment, a $20,000 fine and an order for the dog's destruction.
Dangerous dogs (regardless of breed) are required to be fenced in,
leashed and muzzled when in public, micro-chipped and desexed.
Is it the dog’s or the owner’s fault?
A combination of both. Unfortunately, in many cases, it is a lack of
understanding of the true nature of dogs.
What have other countries done about dangerous dog breeds?
Some have tried to ban certain breeds. This has generally been unsuccessful
and has not seen a significant decrease in dog attack statistics.
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