Rottweilers are a popular breed in the United States and around the world. Despite the traits that make them such outstanding family dogs, some have bad traits because of poor breeding or incompetent owners. Unfortunately, these dogs are restricted in some areas.
Where are Rottweilers banned?
Rottweilers are banned in Romania, Portugal, and Israel, among others. Although generally legal in the U.S., some municipalities ban Rotties and similar breeds.
This video cites Rottweilers as one of the seven breeds often considered the most dangerous. Read on to learn more about where this breed is banned and how it impacts owners.
Why Do Rottweilers Have a Reputation as Dangerous Dogs?
According to Patrick O’Hara, Rotties have been responsible for the second-highest number of dog attacks in 15 years.
Many of the attacks that Rottweilers have been responsible for have been fatal. Even though they have not been involved in as many fatalities as some other breeds, they can still inflict serious injury in some circumstances.
Incidents that involve bites are common enough that many insurance companies restrict policyholders from owning dogs of this breed or mixes. Such restrictions can be a problem even in locations where this breed is legal.
The statistics about Rotties indicate they are 10% more likely to be involved in incidents involving mauling or killing. In addition to being more likely to harm people, they may also kill animals more readily.
The Rottweiler’s origins may have a lot to do with the reputation that the dog has earned. Initially, this breed herded and guarded cattle. In recent years, this dog has served an essential role as a military and police dog.
Because of the dog’s history doing security work, it is more likely to be aggressive towards people unfamiliar with it. Rotties take their duty to guard their territory very seriously. This sense of duty has been behind some of the dog’s reputations.
In many cases, incidents involving bites or injuries are due to inadequate treatment or socialization. Unfortunately, Some owners have raised their dogs to attack others or fight with other dogs, increasing their bad reputation.
Even otherwise docile Rotties can be difficult for owners to manage if poorly trained or socialized. Some biting or mauling incidents stem from dogs not having enough exercise or physical activity.
Excellent owner control is necessary to prevent incidents that might result in injury. A dog you can manage adequately is less likely to bite or harm people or animals.
What Countries Ban Rottweilers?
According to Petolog, Rottweilers have been banned or restricted in several European Union countries. These bans have been largely due to public opinion.
Spain has particularly tight restrictions on keeping Rottweilers. Owners must be of legal age and in good physical, as well as mental, health. The owner must not have a criminal record and must be able to pay for liability insurance.
Italy requires Rotties being walked in public to wear muzzles and be kept on leashes. Romania considers Rottweilers a dangerous breed subject to strict ownership requirements. Dogs of this breed cannot be imported into the country.
Israel bans the importation of Rotties as well. Bermuda has also banned the breed since 2003. In Portugal, these dogs are prohibited from public housing. Rottweilers are also banned from Ecuador. Ukraine and Belarus also have tight restrictions.
The U.S. lacks similar restrictions at the federal level. However, these restrictions may impact travelers who bring their dogs along. People with dogs competing in conformation or other dog shows must consider these restrictions carefully.
What States May Restrict Rottweilers?
Jason Rossi cites that most states do not regulate dog breeds in and of themselves. However, they may allow municipalities to regulate these dogs.
A relatively small handful of municipalities in Kentucky regulate Rotties, with most of the emphasis being on Pitbulls. Harper Woods, a Detroit suburb, restricts 17 breeds, including Rottweilers. Most restrictions in Michigan target Pitbulls.
In Mississippi, several cities regulate Rotties, along with other breeds. The City of Pilot Grove in Missouri has banned six breeds, including Rottweilers. Several Kansas cities have banned Rottweilers and other breeds.
Iowa stands out as a state with many cities banning certain breeds. Fairfield is one of the cities that target Rottweilers. Several other breeds are included in Fairfield’s ban.
One state that is an exception as far as breed restrictions go is Texas. The state’s constitution prohibits municipalities from imposing breed-specific legislation. Many rescues that place breeds restricted in other states are based in Texas.
Rottie owners considering relocating to a different area may need to keep their options open. A city or town may restrict or ban Rottweilers, while a neighboring location does not. You may need to expand your list of options.
Some locations may allow Rottweilers but have restrictions. Keeping your pet updated on vaccines and spayed or neutered might help. Also, consider ensuring your dog has basic obedience training and leash manners.
What Are Some Examples of specific Regulations on Rottweilers in the U.S.?
According to Dogs Bite, dog-related regulation can take several forms. Because such ordinances are often challenged in court, care is given to the wording.
Some locations may have laws requiring sterilization for Rottweilers and other breeds deemed dangerous. Spaying and neutering offer health benefits, including reduced cancer risk. Altering a dog also reduces aggressive behavior.
Rotties are part of a small group of breeds sometimes banned from military installations. Many dogs without any history of behavioral problems end up homeless because of these bans. Breed bans on military bases apply regardless of country.
Some Indian reservations also restrict Rottweilers and other breeds. Because of the relatively remote location of many reservations, owners of dogs in these settings may have difficulty finding new homes very quickly.
Rotties are often barred from public housing in areas such as New York City. Owners of restricted dogs may face eviction if a restricted breed lives in their home. There are movements to get such bans removed in many cities.
Although the number of locations where Rottweilers are banned in the U.S. is relatively small, owners should be aware of potential regulations if moving or if residing in an area that may be annexed onto a city.
Why Are Rottweilers Banned in Some Apartment Buildings or Other Locations?
Rotties and other breeds are sometimes banned from some locations for reasons unrelated to local laws. In many cases, such restrictions are due to insurance company policies treating some breeds as having a higher biting risk.
Davina Ward cites Rottweilers as one of the breeds most likely to be restricted. These dogs are among the 13 breeds most likely to be restricted.
Many apartment communities restrict breeds based on size and weight for practical reasons. Some breeds don’t do as well in apartments. The insurance carrier for the apartment community may also restrict certain breeds because of the costs.
The same type of situation also applies in many condominium communities. Some of these communities have high insurance costs that preclude certain breeds. Many condo units are also a size that is not practical for large dogs.
Mobile homes or RV parks are also places where Rottweilers have often been restricted or banned. The inability to provide fencing around each lot may lead to situations where large dogs are loose, which is a liability for the community owners.
Some home owner’s associations also have breed restrictions. Although HOA homes are owned, the deeds customarily have limitations that may include rules against certain types of pets.
Rottweilers are banned in certain countries, and several municipalities in the U.S. Knowing about any local regulations is a good idea before adding a Rottie to your household.
