Skip to main content

Written question asked by Ruth Jones (Labour) on Monday, 15 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 22 June 2026 (named day). It was answered by Stephen Morgan (Labour) on Monday, 22 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.


Dangerous Dogs

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, for what reasons will Articles 2(5)(a) and 3(2)(a) of the The Dangerous Dogs (Exemption Schemes) (England and Wales) (Amendment) Order 2026 come into force on 1st November 2026, rather than on an earlier date.

Answer

From 1 November 2026, it will be an offence to leave a child under the age of 12 in close proximity with a banned breed dog, in a home or garden without adult supervision.

This measure is intended to strengthen safeguards for children, where evidence indicates they are at greater risk of serious injury from dog attacks, particularly in domestic settings. It sets a clear expectation around supervision in higher‑risk situations.

It comes into force on 1 November to give owners sufficient time to prepare and take the necessary steps to comply.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
9662
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Children Housing Exemptions Insurance Safety Dangerous dogs
Legislation
Dangerous Dogs (Exemption Schemes) (England and Wales) (Amendment) Order 2026
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk