Ontario banned pit bulls in 2005. Here’s why you’re still seeing them
While Ontario banned people from owning pit bulls nearly 20 years ago, an expert tells the Star we’re still seeing them thanks to a number of factors including illegal breeding, and people mixing breeds
It’s been nearly 20 years since Ontario passed a law forbidding people from owning pit bulls.
But if you think you’ve seen them recently — especially in light of recent high-profile dog attacks — you might be right.
Here’s what you need to know about Ontario’s pit bull ban, and what it means for dog owners.
What is Ontario’s pit bull ban?
The pit bull ban is under the Dog Owner’s Liability Act, stating people are not allowed to own, breed or transfer pit bulls, with some exceptions.
The law also prohibits people from abandoning pit bulls anywhere besides a pound operated by or on behalf of a municipality, the province or another designated body. People are also not allowed to let a pit bull stray or train the dog for fighting.
“If a pit bull is found in Ontario, the dog would either be transferred out of province, euthanized or turned over to a research facility, even if the dog has no prior offences,” said personal injury lawyer Jasmine Daya.
