The practice of docking dog's tails for cosmetic purposes has been banned under government legislation preventing cruelty to animals.

The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Tail Docking of Dogs) Regulations 2004 No. 23 (Vic) makes it an offence to dock dog's tails except when carried out by a veterinary surgeon for therapeutic reasons. A person found guilty of committing the offence faces a fine of up to $1000. The creation of laws prohibiting tail docking has been welcomed by animal welfare groups and veterinary associations who see the act as cruel and unnecessary for all dog breeds. Evidence suggests that dogs can feel acute and chronic pain from tail docking. Tail docking has been justified as a means of preventing tail injuries in mature dogs, but RSPCA evidence suggests that the pain of tail docking in puppies far outweighs the pain associated with tail injuries in adult dogs. The tail docking ban brings Victoria into line with other states as we move closer to a national ban on this activity.

Responsible pet ownership is controlled in Victoria by the Domestic (Feral and Nuisance Animals) Act 1996 and the Animals Legislation (Responsible Ownership) Act 2001. Legislation requires pet owners (dogs and cats) to register their animals with the local council and to look after them by ensuring that they do not become a nuisance to others. Dogs and cats will become a nuisance if they "injure or endanger the health of any person or if they create a disturbance through excessive noise that interferes with the peace, comfort or convenience of any person in any other premises". Specific offences are created under the legislation that attract fines for pet owners who do not sufficiently control their pets. In addition, owners may be liable at common law if their pet causes personal injury or property damage to a third party. The injured party may be able to seek compensation for damages suffered as a result of a dog bite.

Pet owners need to be aware of their responsibilities under Victorian law – responsibilities aimed at protecting the animals themselves, as well as the community at large. If you have a specific concern about your responsibilities as a pet owner, or have suffered injury caused by another person's dog, consult your solicitor.