Michigan has no statewide breed ban, and the Dangerous Animals Act focuses on individual animal behavior rather than breed. Municipalities retain authority to adopt breed-specific ordinances, though many have repealed them.
MCL 287.321 defines a 'dangerous animal' based on individual conduct - causing serious injury or death without provocation - not breed. MCL 287.322 through 287.323 authorize destruction of dangerous animals after a court hearing. Michigan does not preempt local breed-specific legislation, so cities like Waterford, Garden City, and others have historically enacted pit bull or breed restrictions. State law universally applies to dangerous-animal determinations regardless of breed. Owners of any dog declared dangerous face confinement, insurance, and registration requirements through local enforcement.
Misdemeanor or felony under MCL 287.323 if a dangerous animal causes serious injury or death; up to 15 years for fatal attacks.
See how Saginaw's breed restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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