Your Trusted Legal Experts in all Dog Related Disputes
Fighting for the rights of dog owners across Scotland, from ownership disputes to dangerous dog issues.
What We Do
Case Studies
Case 1
When a couple split up and there is a dispute over ownership of their dog
Case 2
A client facing criminal charges after their dog bit another dog.
Case 3
A nuisance dog who’s barking upset the neighbours.
Our Approach
Dog Law Scotland is compassionate, professional, and highly effective in
navigating the legal challenges dog owners face.
FAQs
CAN MY EX-PARTNER TAKE MY DOG FROM ME?
In Scotland, as elsewhere in the UK, dogs are considered as your property.
If you and your ex-partner are on amicable terms, you might be able to work out an arrangement without involving the courts.
Mediation is another avenue. Solicitors often mediate disputes involving pets.
Dog Law Scotland can help you navigate the complex issues surrounding dog ownership. The majority of our ownership cases result in an out of court settlement. This might involve paying your partner so you can keep your dog.
Please get in touch with us to discuss your situation. We offer a reduced cost initial
consultation fee when you book your first telephone appointment.
HOW DO I DEFEND MY DOG IN COURT?
Defending your dog in court can be a very stressful. Here at Dog Law Scotland we can provide you with all of the advice and options available to you. This might include appearing on your behalf at court hearings or negotiating with the other party.
Please get in touch with us to discuss your situation. We offer a reduced cost initial
consultation fee when you book your first telephone appointment.
WHAT IF MY DOG BITES SOMEONE
Maintain Your Composure: First and foremost, stay calm. It’s natural to feel upset or angry but keeping a level head will help you handle the situation effectively.
Remove Your Dog from the Equation: Separate your dog from the situation.
Let the other party know that you’re going to put your dog away and will return shortly. If you’re out and about, find a secure place to confine your dog, like your car, or securely tie your dog to a tree or post, making sure they can’t reach the person again.
Calmly ask the other party for their contact details.
Please get in touch with us to discuss your situation. We offer a reduced cost initial
consultation fee when you book your first telephone appointment.
CONTROL OF DOGS (Scotland) ACT 2010:
Section 3 of the Act states that:
(3)For the purposes of this Act, a dog is out of control if—
(a) it is not being kept under control effectively and consistently (by whatever means) by the proper person,
(b) its behaviour gives rise to—
(i) alarm, or
(ii) apprehensiveness, on the part of any individual, and
(c)the individual’s alarm or apprehensiveness is, in all the circumstances, reasonable.
Please contact Dog Law Scotland if you have received, or have been notified of a ‘dog control notice’ regarding your dog’s behaviour.
Please get in touch with us to discuss your situation. We offer a reduced cost initial
consultation fee when you book your first telephone appointment.
THE DANGEOUS DOGS ACT 1991:
It is a criminal offence if your dog makes someone reasonably fear injury. If this can be proven beyond a reasonable doubt the dog will be considered to have been as ‘dangerously out of control’ under Section 3 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. If the dog injures a person or an assistance dog whilst so out of control then it will be regarded as an aggravated offence. The offence applies even if you’re just looking after someone else’s dog.
Allegations that your dog is dangerously out of control are extremely serious and can lead to a severe penalty. A conviction may also mean that your pet will be destroyed.
We can explain the law to you and outline your available options. Following this, we can also offer representation:
Please get in touch with us to discuss your situation. We offer a reduced cost initial
consultation fee when you book your first telephone appointment.
BARKING DOGS / NUSIANCE DOGS:
If you find yourself on the receiving end of a dog noise nuisance complaint, get in touch with one of our expert solicitors.
Please get in touch with us to discuss your situation. We offer a reduced cost initial
consultation fee when you book your first telephone appointment.