Dog Attacks

With dog attacks still being regularly reported, Council is reminding dog owners to take responsibility for their dogs and help protect the community.

Many recent incidents have occurred when dogs have been allowed to roam or have escaped from their owner’s property. While you may believe your dog would not attack, situations can change quickly, especially when a dog is unsupervised or under stress.

Being aware and taking preventative action can help reduce the risk of dog attacks and keep everyone safe.

What is a Dog Attack?

A dog attack is not limited to biting. An attack can include a dog:

  • Rushing at a person or animal
  • Biting
  • Harassing
  • Chasing

This applies whether or not any injury is caused. Even if no injury occurs, Council may still take action. This can include declaring a dog menacing or dangerous, or issuing fines to the owner.

As a dog owner, you may be legally responsible for any injury, death, or property damage caused by your dog.

If Your Dog Attacks

Depending on the severity of the incident and the outcome of an investigation, Council may take the following actions:

Menacing Dog Declaration

A menacing dog declaration may be applied if a dog:

  • Displays unreasonable aggression towards a person or animal
  • Attacks without causing serious injury or death

This allows Council to impose control requirements, even if no serious harm has occurred

Dangerous Dog Declaration

A dangerous dog declaration may be applied if a dog:

  • Attacks or kills a person or animal without provocation
  • Repeatedly threatens or chases a person or animal

This comes with strict control requirements, including:

  • Installation of a compliant enclosure, which may cost upwards of $10,000
  • An annual permit fee of $195

Learn more about dangerous and menacing dogs 

Penalty Infringement Notices

You may be subject to a penalty infringement notice in relation to an attack.

Fines may apply if your dog rushes at, attacks, bites, harasses or chases a person or animal.

  • Minimum penalty: $1,320
  • Maximum penalty: $22,000

You may also receive an infringement if your dog:

  • is in a public place and not under effective control $330
  • is not registered $330
  • and a number of other offences.

Higher penalties may apply if your dog is declared menacing or dangerous.

Failure to pay fines may result in enforcement action by Revenue NSW, including licence suspension, registration restrictions, or wage and bank deductions.

If the dog is roaming and not under control, the owner will be held responsible.

If You Have Been Attacked or Witnessed an Attack

If you have been attacked, or witnessed a dog attack, you should report it to Council.

To assist with the investigation, you may wish to:

  • Record your version of events
  • Take photos of injuries, the location, or the dog involved, if safe to do so
  • Keep any medical or veterinary reports and receipts

You may be required to provide a formal statement and act as a witness if the matter proceeds to court.

If an attack occurs after hours, you can report it via Council’s emergency number on (02) 6849 2000.

For more information about responsible pet ownership and dog attacks, visit the NSW Pet Registry.

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