Q COSTARICA — The attack by a pit bull on a 7-year-old boy in Multiplaza Escazú recently reopened the debate about the existence of dog breeds considered dangerous.
Silvia Quesada, a veterinarian at the San Francisco de Asís School of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, explained that talking about dangerous or aggressive breeds is a generalization.
This is because she indicated that aggressiveness is not defined by genetics or a specific breed, but generally depends on multiple factors.
For example, most official lists and laws in different countries agree on a group of breeds that, due to physical strength, a strong bite, and a history of serious attacks, are considered to require special handling.
And what are these breeds?
In Spain, parts of Latin America, and some states in the United States, the following are commonly found:
- Pit Bull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Rottweiler
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
- Tosa Inu (Japanese Tosa)
- Akita Inu
- Doberman Pinscher
- Presa Canario (or Dogo Canario)
Some jurisdictions also include:
- Bullmastiff
- Neapolitan Mastiff
- Spanish Alano
- Chow Chow
- Siberian Husky or Alaskan Malamute (less common)
A dog’s temperament varies depending on the breed, upbringing, and environment, but in general, they are affectionate, protective, and capable of forming a deep emotional bond with their owners
Why are they considered at risk?
Quesada emphasized that an animal’s behavior will depend on early training and socialization. The living conditions to which the pet has been exposed will also come into play.
However, she stressed that dogs can bite at any time if they are under any type of stressful or even threatening situation.
“From a Chihuahua, which can bite, to a Great Dane, an American Staffordshire Terrier, a Pit Bull… all of them, in a threatening or stressful situation, can act in a certain way,” the veterinarian insisted.
For its part, specialized literature rules out the notion that dogs are “bad” by nature – in fact, well-socialized dogs can make excellent pets.
But there are a number of factors that, combined, have created this “fame” for “dangerous” dogs:
Physical strength and body structure
- Powerful musculature and great endurance.
- Medium-heavy weight (generally over 20-25 kg in adults).
Bite power
- They can exceed 200 to 300 PSI (pounds per square inch), capable of causing serious injuries in seconds.
Prey drive and tenacity
- Historically bred for guarding, big game hunting, or fighting, they display persistence in their bite.
Incident history
- Hospital and insurance statistics show that when they attack, they usually cause more serious injuries than smaller breeds.
Lack of socialization or training
- Most reported attacks are linked to poorly trained, isolated, or aggressive dogs.
Special Considerations
The veterinarian insists that: Not all dogs of the aforementioned breeds are dangerous, but their handling requires an experienced owner, early training, ongoing socialization, and proper physical control.
Several countries require a special license, a muzzle in public places, a short leash, and municipal registration.
The risk increases when there are uncontrolled crosses with these breeds.
In the specific case of Costa Rica:
- There is no regulation based on specific breeds: The National Animal Health Service (Sensa) has stated that “there is no regulation or law that defines any breed as dangerous.”
- However, there are legal criteria applicable to animals declared dangerous due to their irreversible aggressive behavior.
- Furthermore, the Penal Code (Article 130 bis) establishes penalties of 3 to 6 months in prison for releasing a dangerous animal, which can increase to one year if it causes physical harm.
Health will inspect businesses for the entry of pets
This past week, the Ministry of Health announced that it will conduct inspections in shopping centers and restaurants that allow animals. This is intended, it says, to ensure strict compliance with regulations related to animals and businesses.
At the same time, it announced that it was unifying the provisions governing the entry of companion animals (pets) into public and private establishments into a single resolution.
Therefore, future inspections will seek to ensure that businesses comply with the following:
- Dogs and cats are considered pets only, according to Executive Decree 31626.
- In general, the entry or presence of companion animals in public food service establishments is not permitted, subject to a health permit from the Ministry of Health.
- This is at least not permitted without prior compliance with the provisions of Article 61, paragraph c of the Regulations for Public Food Services.
This section states that guide dogs used by blind people are exempt. Pets may remain in food service establishments, but not in areas where food is prepared.
If a business decides to allow pets, it must comply with at least the following measures:
- Post visible signs indicating that pets are accepted, the type of pet, and the conditions (requiring the use of a collar, leash, and, if necessary, a muzzle).
- The owner must collect and dispose of pet waste in designated areas.
- Provide a space and containers for disposing of pet waste.
- Include a guide for animal-related accidents and incidents in your emergency plan, maintain insurance policies, and communicate this to all employees.
- Ensure that pets are always under the supervision of a responsible adult.
Responsibility: Both the business and the pet owner must comply with animal health and welfare laws and regulations.
Penalties: Failure to comply with these provisions will result in the application of special health measures. These include fines, suspension or cancellation of permits, closure, and charges for disobedience to authority.
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