Banned dogs (breeds) in Norway

Last reviewed

27.09.2024

There are six banned dog breeds in Norway. These are:

• The Pit Bull Terrier
• The American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff)
• The Fila Brasilerio
• The Tosa Inu (also called Tosa-Ken or Japanese Mastiff)
• The Dogo Argentino (plural Dogos Argentinos)
• The Czechoslovakian Wolfdog

Wolf-dog hybrids are also considered dangerous.

It is also illegal to breed or import these dogs, or import semen or embryos from these breeds into the country.

The reason why these breeds are banned is that they are considered potentially dangerous dogs that are particularly aggressive, combative and tenacious.

Likewise, no matter the breed, it is against the law to own, breed or import dogs which have been trained to attack or defend themselves or the dog owner from other people or dogs. As well, it is illegal to own, breed or import any dog which is particularly aggressive, combative or has other highly undesirable qualities or behaviour which make them a potential danger for humans or animals.

If there is suspicion that an animal is of a dangerous breed of dog, the police and customs authorities can require the dog owner to document its breed or type in accordance with the law. If there is doubt about the breed, the police can have the dog killed or require that the dog be sent out of the country.

Ask the police and the National Police Directorate about banned dogs and breeds

The police and the National Police Directorate are responsible for the Dog Act and the regulations regarding banned dogs.

If you have questions about a specific case, you can reach out to the police. For more general inquiries about the Dog Act, dangerous dogs, and illegal dog breeds, you can contact the National Police Directorate.

Contact the police (politiet.no)

National Police Directorate (politiet.no)