Dog and animal safety

Powers that police, the council and other authorities can use to control or improve the behaviour of dogs.

If you own a dog you should be aware of the laws regarding dogs and take responsibility for your dog's actions.

The Police, councils and other authorities can take action against a dangerous or banned dog.

Controlling your dog

Under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 it is a criminal offence to allow a dog to be dangerously out of control anywhere, such as:

in a public place
in a private place, for example a neighbour's house or garden
in the owner's home

The law applies to all dogs.

A dog is considered dangerously out of control if it:

injures someone
makes someone concerned that they might be injured

If a dog behaves aggressively, chases or even jumps up, it could be considered dangerously out of control.

Report a dog

You can report a dog that's out of control to us or to Essex Police.

The council may be unable to act on an isolated incident.

Find more information about the control of dogs on GOV.UK and on our responsible dog ownership page.

Public spaces protection orders

We can also restrict what dogs can do in a public space through public spaces protection orders.

These orders can ban dogs from the area, require them to be on a lead or require you to clear up after your dog. There are 3 orders covering a number of areas in the district:

The Fouling of Land by Dogs (District of Uttlesford) Order 2007

The Dogs Exclusion (District of Uttlesford) Order 2007

The Dogs on Leads by Direction (District of Uttlesford) Order 2007

Stray dogs

Stray dogs will be collected if they are caught and contained.

Dog owners should be aware that their dog must be microchipped and wear a collar and tag when out in a public place.

We do not have the power of access to deal with animal welfare issues in private dwellings, and if you have any concerns about any animal you should contact the RSPCA.