Louisiana Breed Restrictions Law: Statewide Animal Ordinances Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: La. R.S. 14:102.14-102.15
Local BSL: Permitted by state
Dangerous dog process: Court declaration required
Felony threshold: Serious injury or death

Full Breakdown

Under Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 14:102.14 and 102.15, any dog that has bitten, attacked, or shown threatening behavior may be declared 'dangerous' or 'vicious' through court process. Owners of vicious dogs face criminal liability, mandatory confinement requirements, and liability insurance obligations. While the state allows local breed bans, the dangerous dog framework applies universally across all 64 parishes. Owners must comply with secure enclosure rules, leash requirements when off-property, and registration. Violations can elevate from misdemeanor to felony if a vicious dog seriously injures or kills a person.

Violations & Penalties

Vicious dog violations: misdemeanor fines up to $1,000 and jail up to 6 months; felony charges if dog causes serious injury or death.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Louisiana ban specific dog breeds statewide?

No. Louisiana has no statewide breed ban, but allows parishes and cities to adopt their own breed-specific restrictions. The state regulates dangerous and vicious dogs by behavior rather than breed.

What makes a dog legally vicious in Louisiana?

A dog declared vicious has caused severe injury or killed a person without provocation, or has previously been declared dangerous and then attacked again. Court declaration is required.

Louisiana Breed-Specific Dog Regulation Authority

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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