Pit Bull Laws in New York

A pit bull terrier is a breed of dog that is in the molosser breed group. Pit bulls were originally created to develop a strong and athletic hunting dog. In modern times many different locations have enacted laws that restrict the ownership of these animals. For example, New York has enacted different laws that effect pit bull owners.

  1. Ownership Laws

    • Pit bulls are not illegal to own in the state of New York. However, the New York City Housing Authority Act has banned the ownership of pit bulls in government-run housing. The ordinance first became effective on May 1, 2009. This new ordinance banned 27 different types of dogs and pit bulls are one of those specific breeds. The law also changed the weight limits that are enacted upon the owners of dogs. The law also changes the maximum allowed weight for a dog in these housing areas. According to the act all dogs must weigh 25 lbs. or less. The original maximum weight was 40 lbs.

    Leash Laws

    • New York has leash laws that must be followed by pet owners throughout the state. For example, on February 1, 2011 Mayor Michael Bloomberg signed a law into effect, Int. 425A, that changed leashing and restraint laws for dog owners in New York City. Due to this law, owners no longer are able to tie their dogs, including all pit bull breeds, to a park bench due to the action being considered "inhumane treatment." Many owners also use special types of collars or leashes to control their pit bulls and this law will affect many of their choices. This law prohibits the use of choke collars and other types of restraining leashes. The New York Dog Federation opposed the new law but was unable to stop it from being passed.

    New York Attack Dogs

    • The New York Dog Bite/Dangerous Dog Law is a statue that lays out the penalties for dog attacks and how to declare if a dog is considered dangerous. Due to news stories about pit bull attacks, some opponents against ownership have used this law to make an argument to prove that pit bulls should be classified as a "dangerous" dog breed. This law states the financial penalties for dog attacks based on the injuries reported by the person who was attacked. While not specific to pit bulls, this law affects owners of any type of dog in New York.

    Attempts at Banning

    • Various politicians and organizations have lobbied for the complete banning of pit bulls throughout New York but have been unsuccessful. PETA is one of the largest animal rights organizations in the world and press for the banning of pit bulls and other breeds throughout New York, but were unable to have a law passed. In 2007, New York City Council Member Peter Vallone pushed for the banning of pit bulls throughout the city but he was also unsuccessful in his bid.