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Denver Dog Breed Restrictions Explained: What Breeds Are Banned and How to Comply
- Christina Frapasella
- Oct 11
- 6 min read
Denver has long been known for its strong stance on dog ownership and animal safety. While the city once had an outright ban on pit bull-type dogs, the law has since evolved into a system of controlled permissions and breed-restricted permits. For residents, visitors, and anyone moving to the Mile High City, understanding these rules is essential to remain compliant and ensure the safety of your pets and the community.
What Dog Breeds Are Banned or Restricted in Denver?
Denver no longer has a complete ban on pit bulls, but the city does enforce a breed-restriction ordinance. This ordinance specifically applies to dogs that fall into the following categories:
American Pit Bull Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
These dogs are often collectively referred to as "pit bull-type" dogs. Rather than a total prohibition, Denver now allows residents to own these breeds if they meet strict requirements under a Breed-Restricted Permit.
Other breeds, such as the Cane Corso, are not allowed within Denver city limits. While the state of Colorado does not have a statewide breed ban, several municipalities, including Denver, Aurora, and Lone Tree, have local restrictions that prohibit ownership of Cane Corsos.
If you are uncertain about whether your dog falls under one of these restricted breeds, Denver Animal Protection recommends a breed evaluation before bringing the dog into the city.
Summary of Restrictions:
Restricted breeds: Pit bull-type dogs (American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier)
Banned breeds: Cane Corso (in Denver, Aurora, and some other cities)
Ownership allowed: Only with a valid breed-restricted permit
What Is Denver’s Breed-Restricted Permit?
The Breed-Restricted Permit is a system created to allow responsible ownership of pit bull-type dogs under controlled conditions. To legally own one of these dogs in Denver, you must obtain this permit through Denver Animal Protection.
Permit requirements include:
Breed Assessment: The dog must undergo a visual breed evaluation to confirm it fits the pit bull-type classification.
Microchipping: Every restricted dog must be microchipped for identification.
Proof of Vaccination and Licensing: Owners must provide up-to-date vaccination records and proof of city dog licensing.
Two-Dog Limit: No more than two restricted dogs are allowed per household.
Inspection Compliance: Owners must comply with any home inspection or follow-up checks required by Denver Animal Protection.
Once approved, the permit is considered provisional for the first three years. If no violations occur during that time, the city may lift the breed restriction for that specific dog.
Summary:
Required for pit bull-type dogs
Includes breed evaluation, microchipping, and licensing
Allows up to two restricted dogs per home
Violations can result in fines or removal of the animal
How to Determine if Your Dog Falls Under a Restricted Breed
Identifying whether your dog qualifies as a restricted breed is not always straightforward, especially for mixed-breed dogs. Denver uses a breed identification process that relies on visual inspection and specific physical traits.
Key identifying traits of pit bull-type dogs include:
Muscular build with a broad chest
Block-shaped head and short muzzle
Smooth coat and medium height
Strong jawline and well-defined shoulders
Because appearances can be misleading, Denver Animal Protection allows for breed evaluations and encourages DNA testing when possible. However, the city bases its classification primarily on physical characteristics, not DNA alone.
If a dog is wrongly identified as a restricted breed, owners can appeal the decision by providing professional evaluation records or DNA results.
What Happens if You Violate the Breed Restriction Ordinance
Owning a restricted breed without a valid permit is a violation of Denver’s municipal code.
Violations can lead to serious consequences, including:
Fines: Owners may face monetary penalties.
Mandatory Removal: The dog may have to be relocated outside city limits.
Boarding Fees: Owners could be charged for boarding costs if the dog is held by animal control.
Repeat offenders may lose eligibility for future permits and face additional legal action. Denver Animal Protection handles enforcement and offers guidance to owners seeking compliance.
For questions or to apply for a permit, contact Denver Animal Protection at denvergov.org/animalshelter.
Are Cane Corsos and Other Breeds Illegal in Colorado?
There is no statewide dog breed ban in Colorado. The Colorado state government leaves regulation of specific breeds to individual cities and counties.
That means dog laws vary across the state:
Denver: Restricted pit bull-type breeds and banned Cane Corsos
Aurora: Ban on pit bulls and Cane Corsos
Lone Tree: Ban on Cane Corsos and other large guardian breeds
Residents and potential pet owners should always check local ordinances before adopting or moving with their pets. A breed that is legal in one city may be prohibited in another.
Understanding the Difference Between Banned and Restricted Breeds
The terms "banned" and "restricted" are often used interchangeably, but legally, they are very different.
Banned Breed: Ownership is not allowed under any circumstances. The Cane Corso is an example in Denver and Aurora.
Restricted Breed: Ownership is allowed, but only if the owner meets certain requirements, such as obtaining a special permit. Pit bull-type dogs fall into this category.
Understanding this distinction helps owners avoid legal trouble and ensures they follow the proper procedures when registering their dogs in Denver.
How Many Dogs Can You Own in Denver?
In Denver, residents may own up to three dogs per household, but only two of those can be restricted breeds. All dogs must be licensed and vaccinated according to city regulations.
If you live in a multi-dog household, make sure your pets are registered individually and that you comply with spacing and property requirements. Denver Animal Protection enforces these limits to maintain animal welfare and public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Laws in Denver
What dogs are not allowed in Denver?
Pit bull-type dogs are restricted but allowed under permit. Cane Corsos are banned.
Are pit bulls banned in Denver?
No, pit bulls are not banned but are restricted under a provisional permit system.
What is the dog ordinance in Denver?
The Denver municipal code includes breed-specific legislation, licensing, vaccination requirements, and ownership limits.
Are Cane Corsos illegal in Colorado?
There is no statewide ban, but Cane Corsos are banned in several cities, including Denver, Aurora, and Lone Tree.
Is Denver a dog-friendly city?
Yes, Denver is dog-friendly overall, with numerous parks, trails, and outdoor spaces that welcome dogs. The breed restrictions apply only to certain breeds within city limits.
How many dogs can you own in Denver?
You can own up to three dogs total, with no more than two restricted breeds.
What is the new law about pets in Colorado?
Recent updates clarified that municipalities, not the state, have authority over breed-specific legislation, allowing local governments to determine their own restrictions.
Final Thoughts
Denver’s breed restriction laws aim to balance public safety with responsible dog ownership. While the days of the outright pit bull ban are over, the city maintains clear rules for restricted breeds through a permit system.
If you plan to own a pit bull-type dog or another large breed in Denver, take the time to understand the local requirements, secure the necessary permits, and stay informed about updates to the ordinance.
For pet owners moving to Colorado, always check city-specific regulations before relocating. Denver’s approach to breed restrictions serves as a model for how local governments can enforce safety while allowing responsible ownership of breeds that were once banned.
By following these rules, you can enjoy living in one of the country’s most pet-friendly cities while keeping your dog safe, legal, and welcome in the community.
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