Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Are Pit Bulls Banned in Australia? Restrictions & Facts

brown pitbull with collar standing outdoors on grass

Pit Bulls and Pit Bull-type breeds have a reputation for being aggressive, and they are banned or controlled in many countries, including Australia. Along with Presa Canarios, Dogo Argentinos, Japanese Tosas, Fila Brasileiros, and wolfdog hybrids, Pit Bulls are banned in Australia.

Several cat breeds, primarily those that are hybrids of domestic and non-domestic breeds, are also banned. It is impossible to register these breeds with the local council, and failing to register a pet can lead to financial penalties and even jail time.

Read on for more information on Pit Bulls and details of the breeds that are banned in Australia.

Dogster divider_v2_NEW_MAY_24_

About the Pit Bull

Pit Bulls are strong, tenacious, and energetic dogs. They do very well in canine sports and agility, and they can make excellent family pets and companions that are loyal to their owners. They do need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, or they may develop unwanted behaviors. Their loyalty and love also mean that they can become destructive if left alone for too long, and separation anxiety is possible with a Pit Bull breed.

pit bull training
Image Credit: Duane Saipaia, Pexels

Why It Is Banned

Unfortunately, the same characteristics that make Pit Bulls so effective in agility and canine sports have seen the breed raised by unscrupulous owners looking for fighting dogs. They have a strong bite force, will do anything to please their owners, and are fearless and tough. This has led to them being commonly used for dog fighting, which, in turn, has led to some Pit Bulls being aggressive with people. Although it is no fault of the Pit Bull itself, the history of aggression shown by the breed has led to many countries around the world banning the breed.

Possible Penalties for Owning a Pit Bull

If the authorities believe that you own a Pit Bull, they will ask for proof that the dog is not a Pit Bull breed. Typically, this needs to be done via DNA testing. A lab result that shows the dog’s breed and that it isn’t a Pit Bull should enable the owner to register the dog legally and safely. Otherwise, the authorities can seize the dog and can elicit a fine. The courts also have the power to hand down a jail term for owning this breed.

The 6 Other Banned Breeds in Australia

The Pit Bull is one of several breeds or types of dog that are banned in Australia.

1. Presa Canarios

Presa Canario purebred dog
Image Credit: TamaraLSanchez, Shutterstock

The Perro de Presa Canario, or Canary Dog of Prey, was first bred in the 15th century and was used to guard farms. Its roles included bringing down larger dogs. The size and courage of the breed saw it also being bred for dog fighting, although the criminalization of dog fighting in the 1940s saw its decline. The breed is territorial, and because it has been bred for fighting, it can be aggressive in the wrong hands, which has seen it banned from a number of countries, including Australia.


2. Japanese Tosa

Tosa inu male dog closeup
Image Credit: acceptphoto, Shutterstock

Another dog that was originally bred for fighting was the Japanese Tosa. The difference in this breed is that dog fighting is still legal in its home country, Japan. Although fights are illegal in some major cities, they have not been made illegal at a national level. Most of the fighting dogs that are bred in the country are of the Tosa breed. The dogs that take part in dog fighting, which is said to be similar to Sumo, are large and very strong.


3. Dogo Argentinos

side profile of a dogo argentino's face
Image Credit: wsanter, Pixabay

The Dogo Argentino is a large Mastiff-type breed. It was first bred in the 1920s as a big game-hunting dog. It hunted wild boar and pumas and was bred from the fighting dog of Cordoba. In addition to being strong, it is agile and athletic. With early socialization and ethical training, the Dogo Argentino can become a loyal and loving companion, but it is banned for its history and prowess as a fighting dog.


4. Fila Brasileiros

Adult Fila Brasileiro
Image Credit: olgagorovenko, Shutterstock

Although originally trained to protect cattle from large predators like jaguars, the Brazilian Fila Brasileiro has gained a reputation for being one of the most impressive guard dogs. It is an intense protector and skilled at taking down large predators, which means it has also gained a reputation for being used to attack other dogs and people.


5. Staffordshire Terrier

American Staffordshire Terrier
Image By: k9arteu, Pixabay

It is worth noting that the Staffordshire Terrier is not a controlled or banned breed in Australia. However, because it looks similar to a Pit Bull, it has been bred with Pit Bulls in a bid to create a cross that has the ferocity of the Pit Bull and the looks of a Staffy. Laws dictate that the Staffordshire Terrier itself is not illegal, but when crossed with a Pit Bull, the resulting dog breed is illegal to own.


6. Cane Corso

cane corso with collar and leash
Image By: Dioniya, Shutterstock

The Cane Corso is another breed that is legal to own in Australia, but only because there are so few of them. The Cane Corso is a very large and strong dog that has been banned in a lot of other countries, but with estimates suggesting that there are as few as 20 left in the country, Australia does not strictly prohibit them.

Conclusion

The Pit Bull breeds are controlled breeds, which means that they are illegal to own except in very specific circumstances and only with local state permission, which is rarely granted. If a dog is believed to be a Pit Bull and the owner cannot prove otherwise, it may be removed and euthanized, and the owner is given a fine and potentially even a prison sentence.

Other dog breeds that are banned in Australia include the Fila Brasileiro, Dogo Argentino, Japanese Tosa, and the Presa Canario. However, pure Staffordshire Terriers are not illegal to own.

Related Reads:


Featured Image Credit: Caroline Ziemkiewicz, Unsplash

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Are Pit Bulls Banned in the UK? Important Facts & FAQ

Few breeds attract as much controversy and heated debate as the Pit Bull. On the one hand, proponents claim it is a friendly,...

american-pitbull-terrier-outdoor

22 Dog Breeds Built to Have the Strongest Bite Force: What the Science Says

Some people look at dogs and think, “Their bark is worse than their bite.” However, that may not be the case for all...

german shepherd dog standing at the park

Are Pit Bulls Banned in South Africa? Important Info for Potential Owners

Despite their loyalty and unconditional love as companions, Pit Bulls have had a long-standing reputation and controversy surrounding them. They have also been...

white pitbull dog up close

What Were Pit Bulls Bred For? History & FAQ

No dog breed has been tarnished more than the American Pit Bull Terrier. The media promoted the species as a dangerous creature because...

Pitbull Bulldog

More related

Dogo Argentino in police training

How Strong Is a Dogo Argentino’s Bite Force? PSI Measurements & Facts

Dogs bite as a way to defend themselves, and the force of their bite depends on their size, the strength of their jaw,...

dogo argentino

8 Dogo Argentino Facts: Learn About This Interesting Breed (Vet-Verified)

A newcomer to American dog owners, the Dogo Argentino is a pack-hunting dog bred to hunt big game like puma and wild boar....

white pitbull dog up close

5 Different Types of Pit Bull Dog Breeds (With Info & Pictures)

What exactly counts as a “Pit Bull” is a bit complicated. Initially, this breed only referred to the American Pit Bull Terrier, which...

a grey pitbull standing on snow

Are Pit Bulls More Aggressive Than Other Dog Breeds? Facts & FAQ

Pit Bull aggression is an age-old topic that is divisive and often causes disputes between the two sides. Because of negative media coverage...

Keep reading

Can Dogs Eat Clam Chowder? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

If you have prepared a hearty bowl of clam chowder, you will undoubtedly notice your dog’s nostrils flaring and tail wagging at the irresistible smell. And while it’s cold out, you may wonder if it’s okay for your companion to...

Can Dogs Eat_Clam Chowder

Is Dry Dog Food Bad for Dogs? Vet-Reviewed Pros & Cons

There has been controversy surrounding dry food in the dog food world for years now. Proponents of raw food and fresh food diets argue that dry dog food is unhealthy due to being highly processed, but others have a more...

pouring dog food

Can Dogs Eat Okra? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts, Risks & Tips

Okra is a staple in many cuisines, including Creole, Brazilian, and Cuban. The food is an edible seed pod that you can eat raw, boiled, sauteed, or pickled. Eating can be challenging for some people because of the characteristic goo...

Dogster-Can-Dogs-Eat-Okra

Can Dogs Drink Anything Other Than Water? 6 Vet-Approved Options

Dogs need water to stay hydrated, but did you know that water isn’t the only thing dogs can drink? There are other canine-friendly options they can enjoy alongside their main bowl of fresh water. These options can encourage your dog...

Can Dogs Eat Granola

8 Best Dehydrated Dog Foods in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Dehydrated dog food continues to grow in popularity as more dog owners are becoming aware of its benefits. This type of food is prepared by slowly removing moisture from whole foods at low heat. This process helps food retain more...

dachshund dog eating from elevated bowl

Can Dogs Eat Pecans? Vet-Reviewed Facts & Safety Guide

If your dog is a dedicated beggar, it can be hard to resist sharing your food with them. Pecans and other nuts are popular snacks for humans, but are they okay for dogs? While pecans aren’t classed as toxic according...

Can Dogs Eat Pecans

7 Best Dog Food Can Lids in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks 

If your dog eats a wet food diet and you don’t use the whole can at once, the last thing you want is the leftovers stinking up your fridge! Instead of using cling film or aluminum foil every time, there...

ORE Pet Can Cover

10 Best Dog Foods for Pomskies in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

The Pomsky is a mix of a Husky and a Pomeranian. They essentially look like miniature Huskies, and they put the “A” in adorable! These beautiful dogs have become a bit of a social media sensation due to their unique...

young pomsky outdoor