How is a "dangerous dog" defined?

A "dangerous dog" is typically defined as a dog that displays aggressive behavior towards people or animals. This definition emphasizes observable aggressive tendencies, which can include threatening behavior, growling, or attacking, rather than simply focusing on the dog’s size or breed. This classification is important because it addresses actual behavior, allowing for a more objective assessment of risk to the community.

Focusing solely on the fact that a dog has bitten a human at least once might not encompass all types of aggressive behavior, as some dogs may exhibit dangerousness through threats or aggression without having physically bitten someone. Similarly, identifying dogs as dangerous based solely on breed assumptions ignores the fact that many breeds, regardless of size, can be non-aggressive and pose no danger. Lastly, keeping a dog on a leash does not inherently make it dangerous or safe; it is merely a management tool that can prevent a dog from exhibiting aggressive behavior in certain situations.