Dangerous dogs

Report an out-of-control dog

A dog is out of control if:

  • it is not being kept under control effectively and consistently
  • its behaviour causes alarm or fear to any person or animal
  • it attacks your dog

Before reporting, consider the following questions:

  • how do you feel about dogs generally, do you have a pre-existing fear that may affect how you experience the situation
  • did the dog seem friendly, overexcited or playful
  • did the owner try to control the dog by calling it back, putting it on a lead or holding its collar
  • did you do anything that may have encouraged the dog to approach you

Report an out-of-control dog

When a dog is dangerously out of control

A dog is dangerously out of control in a public place if it:

  • bites or tries to bite a person
  • seriously injures or kills another animal

You must report a dangerously out-of-control dog to the Police 999.

Page last modified: 2 February 2026