The category dog:

category dogs

So-called "dangerous" dogs are subject to specific regulations, whose masters are obliged to know the obligations and prohibitions. They are classified into 2 categories:

Category 1 dogs

These are called “attack dogs”. Category 1 is made up of 3 TYPES (dogs comparable to a breed but NOT REGISTERED in a herd book):
  • American Staffordshire terrier type dogs, also known as “pit bulls”;
  • Mastiff-type dogs, also known as “boerbulls”;
  • Tosa type dogs.
Category 2 dogs

These are “guard and defense dogs”. Category 2 consists of 3 BREEDS (REGISTERED in a herd book) and 1 type:
  • American Staffordshire terrier dogs;
  • purebred and Rottweiller-type dogs;
  • Tosa breed dogs

Category 1 dog Category 2 dog
Obligations
Identification Obligatory Obligatory
Rabies vaccination Obligatory Obligatory
Sterilization Obligatory Not required
Liability insurance Obligatory Obligatory
Possession of a detention permit* Obligatory Obligatory
Restrictions
Acquisition Prohibited Authorized
Transfer for consideration or free of charge Prohibited Authorized provided that the dog is sold with a veterinary certificate mentioning the category of the dog
Importation or introduction into French territory Prohibited Authorized
Access to public places, public transport and premises open to the public Prohibited Authorized provided that the dog is muzzled and kept on a leash by an adult
Access to public roads and common areas of apartment buildings Authorized provided that the dog is muzzled and kept on a leash by an adult Authorized provided that the dog is muzzled and kept on a leash by an adult
Flight Prohibited Authorized (only on Air France flights and cargo flights)
Remarks: The detention permit

The issuance of this document to a dog owner categorized by the town hall of his municipality of residence is subject to 3 conditions:
  • have a certificate of aptitude: after having followed a 7-hour training course on canine education and behavior as well as on accident prevention.
  • a category 1 or 2 dog must have carried out a behavioral evaluation by a veterinarian registered on a departmental list between 8 months and 1 year of age.
  • possess the documents justifying the identification of the dog, its vaccination against rabies, the veterinary certificate of sterilization for dogs of category 1 as well as the certificate of civil liability insurance of the holder.
The following are not authorized to keep a category 1 or 2 dog:
  • minors;
  • adults under guardianship;
  • convicted persons;
  • persons from whom the right to possess or keep a dog has been withdrawn.
The unauthorized possession of a categorized dog is punishable by 3 months imprisonment and a fine of 3,750 euros as well as the risk of seizure of the animal.