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Menacing & Dangerous Dogs: Victoria Guide

Your obligations, key deadlines, and support options if your dog has been declared menacing or dangerous in Victoria.
Last updated: 18 June 2026Victoria specific

Support for your situation

My council has proposed a declarationFind out what the proposal means, how to make submissions, and what to expect.
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My dog has been declaredUnderstand when requirements take effect, your right to seek VCAT review, and your compliance obligations.
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I need supportConnect with providers to help you navigate the declaration journey.
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If your council has proposed a declaration

Before a dog can be declared menacing or dangerous in Victoria, the council must notify you of the proposal and allow you the opportunity to make submissions, as required by the Domestic Animals Act 1994 (DAA s 35(2), s 41B(1)).

A proposal is not a declaration. It is the council's formal indication that it intends to consider declaring your dog. No declaration has been made, and one is not guaranteed.

The council must consider any submissions you make before deciding whether to proceed (DAA s 35(3), s 41B(2)).

Unlike some other Australian States, Victoria does not impose automatic interim control requirements during the proposal period.

It is important to:

  • Read the proposal notice carefully and confirm the timeframe allowed for submissions
  • Consider whether you wish to make written and/or oral submissions to the council
  • Seek appropriate advice promptly if you need support

If the council proceeds with a declaration, it must serve written notice on you within 7 days, including the reasons for the declaration (DAA s 36(2), s 41C(2)).

See below for more detail.

Jump to:
Menacing
Dangerous

Proposed declaration of a menacing dog

At a glance

The council has formally notified you that it proposes to declare your dog as menacing.

  • The council must allow you the opportunity to make written and/or oral submissions before deciding (DAA s 41B(1)(b)).
  • Your notice will specify the timeframe for making a submission.
  • Menacing dog control requirements only apply after a declaration is made.

Proposed declaration of a dangerous dog

At a glance

The council has formally notified you that it proposes to declare your dog as dangerous.

  • The council must allow you the opportunity to make written and/or oral submissions before deciding (DAA s 35(2)(b)).
  • Your notice will specify the timeframe for making a submission.
  • Dangerous dog control requirements only apply after a declaration is made.

If your dog has been declared

If a council has declared your dog as menacing or dangerous, you will receive written notice of that decision, including the council's reasons for the declaration.

It is important to:

  • Read your declaration notice carefully, including all specific requirements imposed
  • Decide promptly whether you wish to seek review at VCAT within 28 days
  • Begin compliance with requirements immediately from the date the declaration takes effect
  • Seek legal or behavioural support if it could assist with your situation

If compliance requirements are not met, penalties, seizure powers, and other enforcement consequences may apply.

See below for detailed guidance based on whether your dog has been declared menacing or dangerous.

Jump to:
Menacing
Dangerous

Declared menacing dog: what happens next

At a glance

  • Your declaration notice will specify the control requirements that apply to your dog, which may include muzzle and leash requirements when outside your premises.
  • You must notify the council within 24 hours if there are changes to the dog's regular location, if it rushes at a person, or is missing (DAA s 41D).
  • You have the right to apply to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) for review of the council's decision to declare your dog menacing within 28 days of the decision (DAA s 98(2)(aa)).
  • A menacing dog declaration can be revoked by the council at a later date (DAA s 41A(3)).

Declared dangerous dog: what happens next

At a glance

  • Once the declaration takes effect, strict control requirements apply across Victoria (DAA s 34(4)(a)), including muzzling, leashing, a prescribed enclosure, collar, and signage obligations.
  • You have the right to apply to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) for review of the council's decision to declare your dog dangerous within 28 days of the decision (DAA s 98(2)(aa)).
  • A dangerous dog declaration cannot be revoked once it takes effect (DAA s 34(4)(b)). Your only option to challenge the declaration is VCAT review within 28 days.

Support Resources

Behaviour assessments

Independent and experienced assessors who can prepare behavioural reports for council objections or appeals.

Training and behaviour support

Qualified professionals who can support your dog with behaviour management or adapting to new requirements.

Community support

Connect with other dog owners and professionals for advice, understanding and support.

Muzzles

Find a compliant and appropriate muzzle for your dog.

Grief and bereavement

Support for loss and grief of a pet, including behavioural euthanasia.

Process and accountability

Avenues for understanding council processes or making a formal complaint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tips for muzzle training

Legal and Regulatory Sources (VIC)

State legislation

Government guidance

This guide reflects legislation and guidance as at the dates shown above. Victoria legislation and regulations may have been amended since our last review. Check the current in-force version on the official legislation website before relying on this information.

We make every effort to keep our source references current and accurate. If you notice anything that appears out of date or incorrect, please contact us at support@bestr.com.au.