Dog breeds banned from import to Australia

Before you book a single vet appointment, check that your dog can legally come to Australia. The bans are short but absolute, and they sit outside the biosecurity system, so meeting every health condition doesn’t help if the breed is prohibited.

The banned pure breeds

DAFF’s Group 3 dog guide lists these pure breeds as banned from Australia:

• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Brasileiro
• Japanese Tosa
• American Pit Bull Terrier or Pit Bull Terrier
• Perro de Presa Canario (Presa Canario)

These bans fall under customs law. For questions, DAFF refers owners to the Department of Home Affairs, whose border agency, the Australian Border Force, publishes the prohibited import rules for dogs.

Wolf hybrids

Some domestic and non-domestic hybrid dogs are not allowed in. DAFF lists:

• Czechoslovakian Wolfdog (Czechoslovakian Vlcak)
• Saarloos Wolfdog (Saarloos Wolfhound)
• Lupo Italiano (Italian Wolfdog)
• Kunming Wolfdog (Kunming Dog)

These fall under environmental protection law. DAFF refers questions to the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).

Mixed breeds

DAFF says mixed-breed dogs are allowed if they meet all other import conditions. However, if an imported dog is identified as possibly being a prohibited breed after arrival, the Department of Home Affairs may investigate further. If your dog’s appearance or paperwork could raise questions, seek advice before you start.

State and council rules

Australian states and territories also have their own restricted or dangerous dog rules, which can affect ownership, registration, enclosures and muzzling. These are separate from import bans. Check your state and council rules before you move, especially for large or guarding breeds.

Cats

Some hybrid cats are also restricted. If you have a hybrid breed, such as a Bengal or Savannah, check with DCCEEW and DAFF before starting preparations.

If your dog can’t come

This is heartbreaking. Some families arrange for trusted friends or family to rehome their dog, or work with breed-specific rescue groups. Talk to your vet about what is best for your dog.

Why the rules exist

Import bans aim to reduce risks to public safety and the environment. Whatever your view of breed-specific laws, they are enforced at the border, and a dog found to be a prohibited breed may not be allowed to stay.

Next steps

If your dog is eligible, continue with the Group 3 dog guide or check your country group.

State and council rules after arrival

Getting a dog into the country is only the first hurdle. Each state and territory also has its own laws on dangerous, menacing and restricted dogs, and these apply once your dog is living here. In NSW, for example, the Companion Animals Act lists restricted dogs and sets strict conditions for keeping them, including enclosures, signage and muzzling in public. Other states have similar schemes. Councils can also declare an individual dog dangerous or menacing after an attack, whatever its breed.

Before you move, check the rules in the state you are moving to on the state government website, and call the local council. Rental agreements and strata by-laws may add their own conditions on large or certain breeds of dog.

Proving your dog's breed

If your dog is a mix or looks similar to a prohibited breed, expect questions. Breed is recorded on the import permit application and on veterinary documents, and officers can ask for evidence. Pedigree papers, kennel club registration and a clear history from your vet help. If you are unsure whether your dog is eligible, contact DAFF before you start the import timeline, not after you have paid for tests and flights.

Wolf hybrids and other ineligible dogs

DAFF does not allow dogs that are hybrids with wolves or other canids, including breeds developed from wolf crosses. This is separate from the prohibited breeds list under the customs regulations. DAFF names the Czechoslovakian wolfdog, Saarloos wolfdog, Lupo Italiano and Kunming wolfdog, and their crossbreeds, as examples. The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) advises on hybrid animals. Ordinary mixed-breed dogs are allowed if they meet all other import conditions.

If your dog is not eligible

This is the hardest outcome for any family. The options are usually to rehome the dog with family or friends before you leave, or to work with a trusted rescue in your current country. Start early, because a good placement takes time. Some owners delay their own move while they find the right home.