Dangerous Dog Offences
Plain-English digest of CPS prosecution guidance.
AI-generated summary — not verbatim. This is a plain-English digest, not the official CPS text. It may omit detail or fall out of date. Do not rely on it for a charging decision — read the full guidance on cps.gov.uk and check the current legislation.
This prosecution guidance provides essential information for prosecutors dealing with offenses related to prohibited dogs and dogs dangerously out of control. It covers evidential considerations, public interest factors, selection of charges, and sentencing related to the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 among other relevant legislation. The guidance emphasizes the requirements for proving possession, custody, and the conditions under which dogs are deemed dangerous or out of control.
Key points
- Guidance assists in understanding relevant legislation and evidential factors.
- Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act creates offences for specified prohibited dogs.
- Possession of banned dogs requires proof of knowing possession.
- Evidential burden rests with the prosecution for dogs alleged to be prohibited.
- Public interest considerations include injury to persons or animals when deciding to prosecute.
- Sentencing may involve destruction orders or other sanctions on dangerous dogs.
Public-interest factors
- Prosecuting is more likely if injury is caused to a person or animal.
- Prosecution is justified for serious injury or death caused by a dog.
- Public interest may be served by out-of-court disposals in certain cases.
- Fixed penalty notices may be considered as an alternative to prosecution.
- Consideration of public safety in prosecution decisions.
- Referral to crime prevention measures and community safety.
This is a factual digest of guidance published by the Crown Prosecution Service. Digested 2026-07-15. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the CPS.