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Salem, OR Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

Few Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Key Facts

Breed Bans
None
State Law
ORS 609.090-609.190
Dangerous Dog
Behavior-based designation
Requirements
Confinement, muzzle, insurance

Summary

Salem does not impose breed-specific legislation. Oregon's potentially dangerous dog statutes (ORS 609) address dogs based on behavior, not breed.

Oregon law does not impose breed-specific restrictions on dog ownership. ORS 609.098 defines a "dangerous dog" as one that: (a) Without provocation and in an aggressive manner inflicts serious physical injury on a person or kills a person; (b) Acts as a potentially dangerous dog after having previously committed an act as a potentially dangerous dog; or (c) Is used as a weapon in the commission of a crime. ORS 609.035(8) defines "potentially dangerous dog" as one that menaces persons, inflicts non-serious physical injury, or injures livestock without provocation. The state focuses on individual dog behavior, not breed classification.

Source: ORS 609 Dangerous DogsView official code

Full Breakdown

Salem does not ban any specific dog breeds. Oregon's potentially dangerous dog statutes (ORS 609.090-609.190) classify dogs based on behavior. A dog may be declared potentially dangerous if it bites, menaces, or acts aggressively without provocation. A dog declared dangerous must be confined in a secure enclosure, muzzled and leashed in public, and the owner must carry liability insurance. Oregon law does not permit cities to enact breed-specific bans. Some insurance companies may independently restrict coverage for certain breeds.

Violations & Fines

Owners of dangerous dogs who fail to comply with requirements face criminal charges, fines, and potential destruction of the animal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are any dog breeds banned in Salem, Oregon?
No. Salem and Oregon do not ban specific breeds. Dogs are regulated based on individual behavior under ORS 609.
What happens if my dog is declared dangerous in Salem?
You must confine it in a secure enclosure, use a muzzle and leash in public, and carry liability insurance. Non-compliance carries criminal penalties.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Salem

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All Salem rules

How Salem compares: Cities with No Dog Breed Restrictions·Compare Salem to another location·View the Oregon animal ordinances overview

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