Why are Fila Brasilieros banned in the UK?
IN 1991, the UK government introduced a legislation prohibiting certain dog breeds.
One of those breeds are the Fila Brasilieros.
Why are Fila Brasilieros banned in the UK?
The Fila Brasileiro, also known as the Brazilian Mastiff, was first bred in the 1400s.
Its original purpose was to protect livestock and catch predators.
Unfortunately, the breed was also used to chase and capture slaves who wanted to escape captivity.
They can catch their prey and hold it at bay until their hunter arrives."
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The dog's breeding history has resulted in the development of instincts for antisocial and unwanted behavior.
Today, the Fila Brasilieros is banned in the UK.
That is because this breed is banned under the enactment of the Dangerous Dogs Act of 1991.
In that year, an Act of Parliament was passed which prohibits the ownership of certain types of dogs.
The Dangerous Dog’s Act also strengthened the legal responsibilities of owners of all types of dogs.
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It made it clear that if any dog misbehaved in public its owner would be held responsible and would pay the consequences.
Are Fila Brasilieros banned in any other countries?
The UK is not the only country to ban this breed.
In Fiji, Norway, Malta, Australia, Hong Kong and Cyprus, it is illegal to own a Fila Brazilieros without specific exemption from a court.
In Turkey, it is illegal to own and breed a Fila Brasileiro.
In Trinidad and tobago it is classified as a dangerous dog, which means it cnanot be imported and males must be neutered.
Are Fila Brasilieros crossbreeds illegal in the UK?
The Gov website confirms that it is illegal to own, sell, abandon, give away or breed the prohibited breeds.
The website states: “Whether your dog is a banned type depends on what it looks like, rather than its breed or name.
“For example, if your dog matches many of the characteristics of a Pit Bull Terrier, it may be a banned type.
"If you have a banned dog, the police or local council dog warden can take it away and keep it, even if it is not acting dangerously or there has not been a complaint.
“The police may need permission from a court to do this.”
In this instance, you should immediately engage the services of a solicitor in order to safeguard your legal rights.
if you can provide evidence that the dog is safe, despite it being an illegal breed or type, then you can apply to get a certificate of exemption.
If proven to the court’s satisfaction, it means you will be allowed to keep it under a Conditional Destruction Order.
These conditions include neutering, third party insurance, ensuring the dog is muzzled and on a lead at all times in public.
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You will not be permitted to sell the dog, give it away or rehome it.
If any of these conditions are breached, the destruction order will apply.