High-risk dogs and their owners will be subject to stricter control measures under new legislative changes announced by the Government.

The law changes include owners being required to neuter all high-risk dogs, as well as ensure that all dangerous or menacing dogs they own are wearing collars identifying them as high-risk.

The Government has announced a raft of legislative changes as part of a new national action plan that targets dangerous dogs and their owners, rather than all dogs and owners. File Photo.

Dog owners will also be required to keep dangerous canines fenced in an area at home that allows visitors dog-free access to at least one entrance, plus display signs on their properties alerting people of the presence of a high-risk canine.

Animal shelters will also be prevented from adopting out high-risk dogs to new owners.

Local Government Associate Minister Louise Upston says this new plan targets dangerous dogs and their owners, rather than all dogs and owners, to reduce risk and prevent harm from attacks.

'I am launching a programme over the summer months aimed at reducing the risk of attacks. This initiative involves Government funding of $850,000 to subsidise the neutering of high-risk dogs.

'Neutering has been proven to reduce aggression in dogs which is important as we move into summer months and the school holidays.”

She believes the plan will compliment a renewed focus on education, as well as new work with local government on best practice guidelines for councils.

Additional restrictions on high-risk dog owners and improving the quality of information about dog attacks are also being considered.

Louise says the Government intends to introduce legislation in February 2017, with more information to be released at a later date.

'I know first-hand the joy dogs bring to your life and that there are thousands of loved family pets in New Zealand. Unfortunately, the statistics clearly show that dog bite incidents are on the rise and children are overrepresented as victims of dog attacks.”

The new action plan is being developed in partnership with the local government sector and other relevant stakeholders.

What are your thoughts on the Government's new national action plan to reduce dog attacks? Do you think they're enough? Do you think it will work? Post your comments below.

Local Government Associate Minister Louise Upston. Supplied Photo.