Can Texas Towns Ban Certain Dog Breeds?

It happens every time; whenever a dog attacks somebody there are only two types of responses:

1. "That is a bad dog"
2. "That is a bad owner"

A recent dog attack in Harris County is raising serious questions around dog safety and banning certain dog breeds in Texas. An elderly woman was walking her dog and was suddenly attacked by a Rottweiler.

Deputies say the dog bit her multiple times in both arms. She was taken to urgent care, and the dog’s owner still hasn’t been found.

So now the big question: Can Texas ban certain dog breeds?

The short answer is: no. Texas law actually prohibits breed-specific legislation. Under Texas Health and Safety Code § 822.047, cities and counties aren’t allowed to ban or restrict dogs based on their breed.

Instead, dangerous dogs are identified case by case based on behavior, not breed, looks, or stereotypes.

That means even if the dog is a Rottweiler, Pit Bull, or German Shepherd, it’s not automatically labeled dangerous. It's all about whether the dog has acted aggressively or hurt someone without being provoked. 

This attack in Klein highlights a bigger issue: responsible pet ownership.

According to Constable Mark Herman’s office,

"All dogs should be leashed in public—even if they’re trained to be off-leash. Unleashed dogs can cause fear and unexpected reactions from other pets and people."

If you’re a dog owner in the Houston or Klein area, make sure your dog is always secure and leashed when outside. Not only is it safer, it’s the law. Texas isn’t about banning breeds but it is about keeping everyone safe.