Westland, MI Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Basis
- Behavior, not breed
- Off-property rule
- Leashed and muzzled always
- Penalty
- Misdemeanor, § 18-45
- Adopted
- Ord. No. 167-A-5-1, 2-17-09
Summary
Westland doesn't ban breeds by name: it declares a dog 'vicious or dangerous' by behavior and imposes registration, insurance and confinement duties under § 18-42.
Vicious or dangerous dog means:
(1)A dog that without justification attacks a person or domestic animal causing physical injury or death,(2)A dog that is used for dog fighting or other illegal activity,(3)A dog that with a known propensity, tendency or disposition to attack unprovoked, to cause injury to, or to otherwise endanger the safety of humans or other domestic animals(4)The above does not apply to a dog that:a.Has been abused or tormented;b.Was directed toward a trespasser or a person committing or attempting to commit a crime, orc.Was involved in other similar mitigating or extenuating circumstances. (Code 1981, § 6-31; Ord. No. 167-A-5-1, § 1, 2-17-09)
Cross reference— Definitions generally, § 1-2.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 66).
Full Breakdown
Article II of Chapter 18 defines a vicious or dangerous dog by conduct, not breed: one that attacks without justification, is used for dogfighting, or has a known propensity to attack or endanger people or other animals unprovoked. Dogs that acted in self-defense, against a trespasser, or a fleeing criminal are excluded from the definition. Once a dog is declared dangerous, § 18-44 requires it be securely confined, leashed, and muzzled whenever off the owner's property.
Violations & Fines
Failing to keep a declared dangerous dog confined, leashed, and muzzled off-property under § 18-44 is a misdemeanor under § 18-45.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Westland ban pit bulls or other breeds?
What must an owner do once a dog is declared dangerous?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Westland
How Westland compares: Cities with No Dog Breed Restrictions·Compare Westland to another location·View the Michigan animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Breed Restrictions in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Wayne County handle breed restrictions.