Government considers laws to stem use of dogs by gangs

In a consultation launched this week the government is proposing laws to enable councils and the police to force owners of dangerous dogs to muzzle them or get them neutered.

The proposals would also compel all dog owners to take out insurance against their pet attacking someone.

A key factor in the proposals has been an increase in police and RSPCA reports of young gang members using dogs to intimidate and harass people.

The consultation document says: "The term ‘status dog' describes the ownership of certain types of dogs which are used by individuals to intimidate and harass members of the public.

"These dogs are traditionally, but not exclusively, associated with young people on inner city estates and those involved in criminal activity."

According to latest RSPCA figures the number of complaints involving young people with dogs rose from 132 in 2007 to 188 in 2008.

The animal charity has backed the consultation surrounding tough new curbs on dog ownership.

The charity's government relations manager Claire Robinson said: "There is a real need for updated legislation that enables enforcers to tackle the problem effectively and prevent serious incidents from occurring rather than waiting till after a tragedy or penalising certain dogs just because of their breed or type."

The consultation closes on 1 June.