Stray and out of control dogs
Stray dogs
All dogs must be kept under control at all times. Dogs roaming without a lead or supervision may be collected by the dog warden and taken to kennels.
If the dog has identification or a microchip, staff will try to contact the owner.
If your dog is taken to the kennels, you will be charged a £25 release fee and a daily boarding fee.
Unclaimed dogs may be rehomed.
How to report a stray dog
- Call 0303 123 1015
- Out of office hours: take the dog to your nearest police station
- Animal welfare concerns: contact the SSPCA.
Dangerous or out‑of‑control dogs
Dangerous dogs
Dangerous dogs, including banned breeds, are the responsibility of the police. Report concerns to Police Scotland on 101.
Out‑of‑control dogs
We can take action when a dog is considered out of control. It is an offence for any dog to be dangerously out of control in any public or private place.
A dog is “out of control” when:
- it is not being controlled effectively or consistently
- its behaviour causes alarm or apprehension for a person’s safety or the safety of another animal
Examples
- a dog off‑lead in a park runs at someone and jumps up, causing alarm
- a puppy on a lead repeatedly pulls, lunges, or ignores commands may be considered out of control
- dogs in busy homes become over‑excited and start chasing or nipping children during play
- a dog escaping from your garden approaches and attacks or alarms a person or another dog
Dog control notices (DCNs)
If a dog is found to be out of control, we can issue a DCN, which may require the owner to:
- have the dog microchipped
- muzzle the dog in public
- keep the dog on a lead in public
- neuter a male dog
- keep the dog away from specific places
- attend and complete dog‑control training
Failure to comply can result in a fine of up to £1,000.
How to report an out‑of‑control dog
- call 0303 123 1015
- or complete our customer services enquiry form