Australia’s Banned Dog Breeds and Hybrid Rules: What You Need to Know

TLDR: Australia bans five dog breeds: Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, Perro de Presa Canario, and American Pit Bull Terrier. All domestic/non-domestic hybrids are also banned, including Savannah cats and Wolfdogs. As of March 1, 2026, Bengal cats are no longer permitted to enter Australia. There are no exemptions, no permits, and no documentation that makes a banned breed or hybrid eligible.

Australia bans certain dog breeds and all domestic/non-domestic hybrids from entering the country. These are hard bans with no exemptions. If your pet falls into one of these categories, they cannot travel to Australia under any circumstances.

Which Dog Breeds Are Banned?

Australia does not permit the following dog breeds to enter the country:

• Dogo Argentino

• Fila Brasileiro

• Japanese Tosa

• Perro de Presa Canario

• American Pit Bull Terrier

There is no exemption process, no permit pathway, and no documentation that makes a banned breed eligible. If your dog is one of these breeds, they cannot travel to Australia.

Which Hybrids Are Banned?

All domestic/non-domestic hybrids are banned from entering Australia. This includes:

• Savannah cats

• Wolfdogs

There is no generation-based exemption. All hybrids are banned regardless of how many generations removed they are from the wild ancestor.

Are Bengal Cats Allowed?

No. As of March 1, 2026, Bengal cats are no longer permitted to enter Australia.

This is a full ban. There is no exemption, no documentation pathway, and no permit process. If your cat is a Bengal, they cannot travel to Australia.

Unsure whether your pet is eligible for Australia? PetRelocation can help you assess your options before you start the process. Get in touch to start planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my Pit Bull to Australia?

No. American Pit Bull Terriers are one of five banned breeds. There is no exemption or permit process.

Can I bring my Savannah cat to Australia?

No. Savannah cats are domestic/non-domestic hybrids and are banned from entering Australia.

Can I bring my Wolfdog to Australia?

No. Wolfdogs are domestic/non-domestic hybrids and are banned from entering Australia.

Can I bring my Bengal cat to Australia?

No. As of March 1, 2026, Bengal cats are no longer permitted to enter Australia.

What about F5 hybrids?

There is no F5 exemption for Australia. All domestic/non-domestic hybrids are banned regardless of generation.