In an open letter to the Mirror today, the British Veterinary Association, in partnership with organisations who care for dogs impacted by the Dangerous Dogs Act and oppose breed specific legislation, has challenged its new campaign that calls for non-evidence-based changes to the Dangerous Dogs Act.

The Mirror’s campaign asks for widening the list of dogs that are banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act, as a way to address the rise in dog attack cases in the UK. 

While the coalition believes that changes to the Act are necessary, they must be informed by scientific and other robust evidence in order to be effective.

In a statement, BVA said: “Evidence shows that any dog of any size or breed has the capacity to react or behave in an aggressive way, particularly if they haven’t been properly socialised and trained. 

“Reform is needed to protect the public and safeguard dog welfare but banning more dog breeds is not the solution.”