Reminder about dog licences amid changing laws

Dog owners in Jersey have been reminded to renew their dog licences for 2026.

For the first time, owners must declare if their dogs are classified as dangerous when they apply for a licence, after politicians voted to amend laws surrounding dangerous dogs in November.

The Comité des Connétables said licences could be applied for on its website at the cost of £10 per dog and must be renewed by 31 January, with licences applied for after that date costing £20 per dog.

It said a dog licence is not needed while the pet is under the age of six months or if it is an assistance dog for people who are visually impaired or deaf.

It also said licences could not be issued to a person under 16, and 18 years for dangerous dogs.

In November, the States agreed the five breeds which met the criteria of a dangerous dog were dogo argentino, fila brasileiro (which is also known as the Brazilian mastiff), Japanese tosa, pit bull terrier and XL bully.

The States veterinary officer has published guidance on dogs that may fit the characteristics and measurements of an XL bully, such as American XL bully, American Staffordshire terrier and bull terrier, American bulldog, cane corso and presa Canario.

It was made a criminal offence to keep a dangerous dog after 31 December 2025 without it being registered.

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