A Staffordshire Bull Terrier owner’s bid to overturn the “dangerous dog” designation for their pet has been rejected by a council in New Zealand, following a series of attacks on cyclists. The dog, named Max, has a documented history of aggressive behavior, with three reported incidents involving cyclists last year.
During a hearing conducted by the Nelson County local authority, it was revealed that Max had previously attacked a 75-year-old woman, leaving her unconscious, and had bitten a postman on separate occasions while he was on his delivery route. Despite the owners acknowledging feeling remorseful about the incidents and attributing Max’s behavior to past trauma, they argued that the dog’s aggression was triggered specifically by bike saddlebags.
However, the council dismissed this assertion and upheld Max’s “dangerous dog” status, which mandates stricter regulations including compulsory muzzling in public and heightened registration fees. The decision was reached in consideration of public safety, given the dog’s record of multiple attacks.
Max had been previously ordered to wear a muzzle in public after biting the postman twice during his rounds. Despite this, less than three weeks later, the dog lunged at the 75-year-old cyclist, causing her to fall unconscious. The severity of the incident prompted consideration of prosecution, although charges were not pursued as the victim opted not to press charges.
The council’s decision to uphold the “dangerous dog” classification underscores the seriousness of the incidents and the need to ensure public protection. Despite the owners’ assertions, the panel concluded that Max’s behavior posed a significant risk to community safety, warranting the imposition of stricter measures.
