How many dogs is one household allowed to have?

There is no statutory maximum number of dogs that you may have, as it will depend on the size of your home and the size of the dogs. Many Council’s use 6 as their ‘rule of thumb’ maximum. However, this should not be regarded as the most you may have, as in your particular circumstances, a smaller number may be appropriate. If you have so many dogs that it is regarded that the nature of your home has changed to being a home for dogs rather than people, then the Council may require you to apply for planning permission for change of use.

There is no such general law. Landlords can stipulate a maximum amount allowed in their properties, and there have been councils setting a max limit of 6, but this is rare. I think there is no limit on the dogs you can own. I know in the deeds of the house I own, it says not more than 2 dogs or 2 cats but I have no idea how enforceable that is and is probably generally ignored. I own my house but it is an ex council house and it says in the deeds I can only have one dog. I'm only supposed to have 2 animals in my house, it's in my title deeds, but no-one has paid any heed as most people in my area have lots of pets. In Australia, Qld, the state that I'm in, only allows 2 dogs if you have a total land size of 600m2 or more, then a permit is required to be allowed to keep over two, but up to four dogs, anything less than 600m2, you're only allowed to have 1 dog. Someone I know has 14 and they live in a Council House, one of their neighbours did complain, but the council officer was happy with the condition of the dogs and the house and made no comment about the number she had.

Tenants are allowed to keep one domestic pet, for example, a dog or cat, without requesting the permission of the council. If you would like to have an additional pet, exotic or farmyard animal, you must ask us for permission before you can do this. Dogs which are prohibited by the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 will not be kept. Tenants are responsible for the behaviour of pets owned by them, anyone living with them or anyone visiting them when that person's pet is within the house, their garden, or in the vicinity of their home. Completing this application form does not mean we will give permission but will only refuse if there is a good reason to do so.

If you live in a flat with a common entrance, you need the Council’s permission to keep any pets. Otherwise, you can keep one common household pet in your house. Over and above this, permission to keep additional pets is required. You do not require permission for guide dogs or hearing dogs. The Council will not unreasonably withhold permission.