On Sunday, the stricter dog ownership law adopted in Upper Austria in July will come into effect. The reason for the change was a fatal bite attack on a jogger in Naarn in October 2023. Now six breeds are classified as potentially dangerous and their owners, like those of large dogs, must pass an additional test.
In the future, six breeds and their crosses with each other – Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Pit Bull and Tosa – will be considered potentially dangerous in Upper Austria. Owners of such dogs and also large dogs – by definition dogs with a height at the withers of more than 40 centimeters or a weight of more than 20 kilograms – must take a suitability test for everyday use in addition to the general certificate of competence. The behavior of the dog and its owner/mistress is monitored in everyday situations such as in traffic or in crowds. The test must be taken in the presence of qualified dog trainers.
Increased risk potential
Leashes and muzzles are mandatory in all public places for both the six breeds and for striking dogs – with an increased risk potential for humans and animals. In addition, communities are given more room to act after incidents involving dogs, and a cross-community dog registry provides an overview of all dogs registered in the state.
Source: Krone
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