Aggressive Behaviour: how to manage it effectively
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Dog Warden Training
This one-day intensive training programme provides expert legal guidance to dog wardens on the scope of their duties and powers. It will also give them the skills to identify prosecutable cases, undertake lawful investigation and prepare a file for successful prosecution.
395
Online
9:30am - 4:30pm
1 day
About this course
Local Authorities have a statutory responsibility for dog control under multiple acts, regulations and bye-laws. Under these pieces of legislation, local authorities appoints dog wardens who have many powers including the power to impose fines and the power to prosecute. Despite these powers fines, enforcement and convictions rates are still relatively low compared to the amount of dog related complaints received.
Properly trained dog wardens are crucial for local authorities to fulfil their legal obligations, ensure public safety, promote animal welfare, effectively enforce regulations and maintain positive community relations. Our program addresses all these critical aspects through practical, targeted training.
Why choose this course
Legislation covered in this training programme include:
Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013
Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010
Control of Dogs Act 1986-2010
Section 22 of the Litter Pollution Act 1997 and relevant bye laws
Course syllabus
This training day will provide:
Expert legal guidance on the dog warden’s powers of enforcement including:
- Legislation: understand the acts, regulations and bye laws that empower the dog warden,
- Confidently identify offences and breaches / non-compliance of legislation,
- Enforcing dog related legislation,
- Issuing fines / penalties / notices / orders,
- Investigating complaints in line with current legislation,
- Compiling the case file in line with current legislation,
- Prosecution and control orders,
- Witness in court proceedings where necessary,
- Liaising and working alongside other agencies, such as, animal welfare organisations, Gardaí, government departments.
An overview of dog warden’s principal accountabilities including:
- Dog health and welfare,
- Dog breeders,
- Stray, dangerous or unlicensed /un-microchipped dogs,
- Dog fouling or noise pollution,
- Worrying livestock.
It is also the role of the dog warden to educate the public about their role and legal responsibilities as pet owners. This might involve them visiting local schools to try and educate the children about the responsibilities involved in owning a pet.
Those who should attend dog warden training include:
- All designated dog wardens employed by local authorities.
- Local authority staff who may need to act as dog wardens in certain circumstances.
- Supervisors and managers who oversee dog control services.
- Relevant personnel from animal welfare organisations who work alongside local authorities.
- New recruits prior to beginning active duty as dog wardens.
- Experienced wardens seeking refresher training on updated regulations or practices.
Meet the trainer – Judy Peters
Solicitor and Training Consultant
Judy Peters is a highly experienced lawyer and legal trainer with a distinguished career spanning over four decades. She was admitted as a solicitor in England in 1979, in Northern Ireland in 1983 and...
Read BioPractical training with small groups to ensure quality.
Our training sessions are not lectures—they're practical, interactive experiences. The small group format allows every attendee to ask questions, take part in discussions involving practical exercises and role-plays.
This method of training allows attendees to put the skills learned into practice immediately. Course participants benefit from the focused attention and guidance of an independent expert.
Register to attend
# SELECTED
| Course Dates | Location | Price | Spaces Left | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 06/11/26 i 06/11/2026 09:30 - 17:00 | Zoom Online | €395.00 | 3 |
Dog Warden Training
FAQs
This course provides practical and legal training for dog wardens and local authority staff responsible for enforcing dog control legislation in Ireland. It covers enforcement powers, handling procedures, and the legal framework governing dog ownership and control.
The course is designed for dog wardens, local authority enforcement officers, and staff involved in animal control or community safety. It is also relevant for those newly appointed to dog control roles or seeking to refresh their knowledge.
Dog control in Ireland is primarily governed by the Control of Dogs Act 1986 and subsequent amendments. This legislation sets out responsibilities for dog owners and enforcement powers for local authorities.
Dog wardens have powers to seize and detain stray or dangerous dogs, issue on-the-spot fines, and initiate prosecutions for breaches of dog control laws. They may also deal with issues such as dog fouling, licensing, and restricted breeds.
Yes. The training addresses how to manage restricted breeds, assess risk, and apply relevant legal provisions. It also covers safety considerations when handling potentially aggressive dogs.
The course typically includes handling and seizure procedures, evidence gathering, issuing fines, preparing prosecution files, and interacting with dog owners and the public in enforcement situations.
Dog wardens must assess complaints carefully, gather evidence where appropriate, and apply the law consistently. The course provides guidance on responding professionally and ensuring fair enforcement.
Breaches can result in fines, seizure of the dog, or prosecution in court, depending on the seriousness of the offence. The course explains enforcement options and how to escalate cases where necessary.
Yes. It includes guidance on collecting evidence, documenting incidents, and preparing files for prosecution, which is essential if enforcement action proceeds to court.
Yes. It is suitable for both new and experienced wardens, providing a clear overview of legal responsibilities as well as practical enforcement techniques.
