In France, dangerous dogs are classified into two categories as per the French Rural and Maritime Fisheries Code.
1st Category Dogs
- Definition: This category includes dogs that are morphologically similar to:
- American Staffordshire Terriers (often called “pit bulls”) without pedigree.
- Mastiff breeds and Tosa breeds without pedigree.
- Regulation: Category 1 dogs are prohibited from entering French territory.
2nd Category Dogs
- This category includes various breeds not specified but deemed potentially dangerous.
- Owners of both 1st and 2nd category dogs must obtain a license that includes:
- Dog identification.
- Valid rabies vaccination certificate.
- Civil liability insurance.
- A veterinary certificate of sterilization (for Category 1 dogs).
- Certificate of aptitude from a certified dog trainer.
- Behavioral assessment of the animal.
- Authority: The license is issued by the local mayor’s office in France.
For detailed characteristics of these dog categories, consult the official document.
