Dog attacks are a significant concern worldwide, and it is estimated that more than 4 million people globally are bitten by dogs every year. In an attempt to minimise these attacks and safeguard the community and other animals, many countries have a blanket ban on the import of dangerous and aggressive dog breeds.

Pet import regulations around the world differ from country to country depending on local laws and biosecurity rules in the country. Dangerous and aggressive dog breeds are prohibited from import in many countries, and it is a good idea to check whether your dog is on the banned list before beginning your travel plans.

France has breed-based legislation in place for dangerous dogs, and not all breeds can be imported in the country. If you are bringing your pet to France, read on to understand which dog breeds are banned and restricted in the country.

Category 1: Banned breeds in France

France has two classifications for dangerous dogs. Category 1 dogs are defined as attack dogs without pedigree papers. These dogs are considered dangerous, and the import of these breeds are prohibited in France. They are not allowed to be transported in the cabin or as cargo in an aeroplane to France.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Forestry in France, Category 1 attack dogs are defined by their morphology and physical affinity to the following breeds:

• Staffordshire Terrier
• American Staffordshire Terrier (Pitbull Terrier)
• Japanese Tosa Inu
• Boerbull Mastiff

Buying and selling of these breeds are banned, and it is compulsory to desex these dog breeds in France. They must always be on a lead and muzzled in public, and they do not have access to public transport, public places and common areas in apartments.

Category 2: Restricted breeds in France

The dogs classified under this category are purebred or pedigreed guard dogs. These dogs are allowed to be imported into France with restrictions. Only dogs registered with a pedigree recognised by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Forestry in France are allowed to be imported into the country. They are allowed to be transported on flights in the cargo hold of the aeroplane.

Category 2 breeds are:

• Pedigree Tosa Inu
• Pedigree Staffordshire Terrier
• Pedigree American Staffordshire Terrier
• Rottweiler (Pedigree and Non-pedigree)

Pet parents of these breeds must apply for a licence at the city town hall. The licence is free of charge and will be granted after a behavioural assessment of the dog by an authorised vet. Pet parents must participate in a training course and prove that they are competent to handle the dog safely. Pet owners must also have insurance to protect against liability from dog attacks. The dog must be vaccinated and sterilised. They must be on a lead and muzzled at all times when out in public and on public transport.

International pet transport to France

Bringing your pet to France can be tricky, especially if you are in the middle of an international relocation yourself. There are various pet import criteria to be met, and your pet will be allowed to enter the country only if all import conditions are met satisfactorily.

If you are travelling to France with your pet dog or cat, contact the team of pet travel experts at Petraveller for more information on international pet transport and a detailed pet travel itinerary.