“Bully” Dog Bans In Arkansas

Pitbull breeds are a notorious hot button issue for dog lovers and community leaders. Some folks are defensive, feeling like “bully” breeds have a bad reputation and are unfairly judged by others. On the other hand, given their breeding history, many early pitbulls were bred as companions for hunting large game. 

When the world stopped relying heavily on hunters and gathers, dogs (including pitbull breeds) began to take on a new role as man’s best friend. But for “bully” dogs, some of their owners were using them for nefarious reasons, like fighting other dogs for prize money. 

While every dog bite injury is different, some places in Arkansas have placed “bully” breed restrictions in an attempt to avoid life-threatening accidents. Here, we’ll review their breeding history and the specific city ordinances prohibiting ownership. 

The History Behind Pitbull Breeds

Centuries ago, dog breeding was an aristocratic hobby. Noblepeople from around the world would breed different dog species in hopes of creating the ideal hunting dog. This was no easy feat for past breeders, as they spent decades observing their canine’s physical and temperamental traits to pick the best sires and dams for breeding.

Pitbull breeds were no different; back in the day, this breed was highly valued for their ability to bite and restrain large animals like bears. Breeders continued to pair mates together that were good at taking down big prey until the government outlawed using bait (in this instance, pitbull breeds) to hunt large animals. 

When hunters couldn’t use their pitbulls for big game, they found other means to make money off of the breed: dog fighting. Instead of breeding based on their ability to take down large animals, they were bred based on their fighting capabilities. 

As time went on, the breeding history became foggy. Which pitbulls descend from dams and sires with an aggressive temperament, bred with the intention for dog fighting? No one knows for certain. Due to the uncertainty, some areas have placed bans on “bully” dog breeds. 

Breed Restrictions In Arkansas

If you own a pitbull breed, you’re already aware that moving options may be limited due to breed restrictions. Additionally, your community may change their stance by enacting, upholding, or revoking breed restrictions and it’s your responsibility to follow the law. 

Currently, North Little Rock has a ban on all types of “bully” breeds. This ban includes any canine that has a mix of “bully” breeds in them. 

Sherwood city has a ban on pitbull breeds as well after a deadly attack on a nine year old boy. In April 2025, Sherwood’s city counsel revisited the issue and voted to uphold the pitbull ban. 

Other places, like Maumelle, state that pitbulls and American bulldogs are banned with exceptions, such as a pitbull needing veterinary care within the city limits. 

This list is not exhaustive and is subject to change. Therefore, if you are curious about breed restrictions in your residential area, search your local city website for details or contact animal control. 

ASPCA’s Statement On Pitbull Breeds 

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) doesn’t agree with breed-specific bans, but feels as though leash laws and responsible pet ownership can prevent dog bite injuries. Here’s a snippet of their official statement:

“The reality is that dogs of many breeds can be selectively bred or trained to develop aggressive traits. Therefore the responsible ownership of any dog requires a commitment to proper socialization, humane training and conscientious supervision. Despite our best efforts, there will always be dogs of various breeds that are simply too dangerous to live safely in society. We can effectively address the danger posed by these dogs by supporting the passage and vigorous enforcement of laws that focus, not on breed, but on people’s responsibility for their dogs’ behavior, including measures that hold owners of all breeds accountable for properly housing, supervising and controlling their dogs.” 

While ASPCA’s statement is against pitbull bans, they recognize the history behind “bully” dogs being bred for fighting and acknowledge that any dog species bred for such traits can result in a dangerous dog. For cities struggling to manage aggressive dog attacks, breed bans are enacted for safety reasons until another viable legal option becomes known. 

Personal Injury Lawyers For Dog Bite Cases

Regardless of city ordinances on breed restrictions, a bite from any canine can result in a lengthy court battle. However, the legal consequences will be more severe for dog owners who ignore these restrictions and their pet is involved in a life-threatening attack. 

If you need a personal injury attorney in Arkansas, the law offices of Hickey & Hull want to help. With 5 different locations, our lawyers have worked with Arkansas residents across the state. Learn more about our team today and contact an office near you to schedule a consultation!