DAERA updates exempted dog requirements
Owners do not need to take any action as a result of the changes.
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has updated requirements for exempted dogs in Northern Ireland.
The two changes are applicable to those holding an Exemption Certificate for a prohibited dog breed. They follow new measures announced by Defra for England and Wales last week.
From 1 November 2026, dog owners must not allow a child under the age of 12 to be left in close proximity to a prohibited breed type dog in a home or other private setting without adult supervision.
The safeguard is expected to reduce the risk of serious injury to children in domestic environments. These dogs will still be able to remain with families where there is appropriate supervision is in place.
Failure to comply with these conditions could result in enforcement, which may include seizure of the dog and prosecution of the owner. DAERA will share further guidance ahead of the requirement coming into effect.
Andrew Muir, DAERA minister, said: “To enhance child safety, I now plan to introduce similar steps being taken in England and Wales from 1 November prohibiting a child under the age of 12 to be left in close proximity to a prohibited breed type dog in a home or other private setting without adult supervision.
“Although this legal requirement only applies to prohibited breed-types, any dog can pose a risk in certain situations. Owners should be reminded of guidance that young children should always be supervised around all dogs.”
DAERA has also followed Defra in removing the requirement on owners holding third party liability insurance.
From 1 July 2026, dog owners will no longer be required to hold third party liability insurance to obtain an Exemption Certificate. This matches steps being taken across the UK and aligns with the current requirements in the Republic of Ireland.
Local councils will be contacting prohibited breed owners in the coming weeks with updated exemption certificates.
Any other conditions attached to an Exemption Certificate will remain in place. Owners do not need to take any additional action as a result of the changes.
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