Dog breeds certainly pose different risks
ANEW study has found that there is no scientific evidence backing up the assumption that certain breeds of dog are more dangerous than others and that the breed determines the likelihood of an animal behaving violently.
Dogs included on the Irish restricted breeds list include Rottweilers, Alsations and Pit Bulls which means that their owners are required to adhere to certain rules such as keeping them muzzled and on a strong leash in public. This makes sense for any dog which may be inclined to be snappy or pose a threat to other animals and more importantly humans.
Those who are experienced and very comfortable with dogs see no need for these restrictions in the first place but my view is that it is better to be safe than sorry.
I can’t understand why any family would have these ‘restricted’ breeds in a household with children given the many horror stories carried in the media over the years.
However, I can understand that owners who have reared their animal as a pet since birth would have confidence in their dog and feel that there is little or no risk involved.
It’s a tricky one because if experts now say that these currently restricted breeds are now no more a threat than any others people might be more likely to disregard any risk at all.
The reason dogs such as Bull Mastifs are included on this list is because of their sheer might and strength.
They have the ability to severely maim or kill a human being, particularly if there is more than one animal involved so this list is just a way of warning owners to the risk.
Yes, a Jack Russell can bite as well, but they are smaller and less menacing and possible easier for a person to physically deal with if attacked.
Perhaps those with vast experience of different breeds would take a different view, but everything portrayed in the media about these breeds indicates that their basic nature is vicious and menacing.
If anyone wants a good guard dog - they get an Alsation. If they want a house pet they get a Chihuahua or a Pomeranian or a King Charles Spaniel - something cuddly and small which doesn’t have the ability to rip their leg off.
Regardless of the breed, I don’t believe that any dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Why take the risk?