New Berlin, WI Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

New Berlin Code § 152-10 does not restrict any dog by breed; the ordinance's 'dangerous dog' and 'potentially dangerous dog' categories are both defined by what an individual animal has actually done, not what breed it is. Under § 152-10 G(1), a dog that, without provocation or an extenuating circumstance listed in § 152-10 I, inflicts severe bodily harm on a person or domestic animal in New Berlin is designated dangerous and the owner is penalized by a fine; a dog previously classified potentially dangerous that then escalates its behavior also qualifies.

Once designated, § 152-10 G(3) requires the owner to keep the dog securely confined indoors or in a locked, escape-proof pen designed so the dog's snout cannot protrude, with underground fences specifically ruled insufficient; to leash the dog to no more than four feet and muzzle it whenever it leaves the property under an able-bodied adult's control; to microchip the dog and certify the chip number to the Clerk's office within three business days; and to pay an annual administrative fee that expires each December 31.

A lesser 'potentially dangerous' designation under § 152-10 H applies to a dog that menaces, chases or displays threatening behavior without inflicting injury, and requires the same secure confinement and four-foot-leash rule, though an owner can petition to have that designation lifted after 18 incident-free months by completing the AKC Canine Good Citizen course. Extenuating circumstances in § 152-10 I, such as a dog defending itself or its owner from an attack, or reacting to a trespasser, keep a dog from being designated at all.