Rotterdam takes measures against aggressive dogs

The municipality of Rotterdam is launching an action plan against aggressive dogs. The plan consists of a number of measures aimed at preventing dog bites. "We don't want to take action only after a serious bite incident occurred, but rather prevent it", alderman Joost Eerdmans said, according to RTV Rijnmond. "That's why we prepared the 'Aggressive Dog Plan of Action' to preventatively tackle dangerous dogs."

Eight special neighborhood enforcement officers will receive special dog handling training as part of this plan. If there are reports about aggressive dogs from the neighborhood, the enforcement officers will visit the owner to assess the situation. Based on their findings, the municipality can take preventative measures - including the obligation to muzzle the dog when going for a walk. 

Rotterdam's area committee can now also ban certain dog breeds from busy areas like shopping streets. This involves the 21 dog breeds previously designated as "high risk" by the former State Secretary of Economic Affairs. The list includes breeds like the Pit Bull, Dogo Argentino, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Cane Corso and Rottweiler. 

Other measures includes keeping better track of biting incidents and compulsory behavioral tests.