The Scottish Government has published updated statutory guidance on the Control of Dogs (Scotland) Act 2010 ("2010 Act").
The 2010 Act came into force on 26 February 2011, and statutory guidance was issued ahead of implementation of the legislation.
The key purpose of the 2010 Act is to promote more responsible ownership of dogs and ensure that dogs which are out of control are brought and kept under control in Scotland. As we look ahead to the 10 year anniversary of the 2010 Act coming into force, the focus of the legislation continues to be on the “deed not the breed” approach in tackling irresponsible dog ownership.
The Scottish Government considers that as local authorities have had nearly a decade of experience of use in their 2010 Act powers, it is an appropriate time to issue updated guidance that reflects lived experience and practical use of the legislation. This guidance document therefore includes examples of best practice of local authorities use of their powers.
The updated guidance has been prepared with the assistance of the Scottish Government led dog control and dangerous dogs working group. Whose members include Police Scotland, REHIS, Society of Chief Environmental Officers, National Dog Warden Association and COSLA.
