NEW SENTENCING powers will come into force today  to try and tackle the increasing number of convictions for offences involving dangerous dogs.

It means more offenders will face jail sentences, more will get community orders and fewer will receive discharges, if they allow their pets to be dangerously out of control.

Published in May, the new sentencing guidelines will now be adopted in courts across England and Wales.

In a statement from the Sentencing Council, the body in England and Wales who advise on sentence guidelines, they said: "With increasing numbers of convictions for offences involving dangerous dogs in recent years, the new guideline will help ensure courts use their full powers when dealing with offenders.

"The Sentencing Council’s guideline aims to provide clear guidance to judges and magistrates to encourage consistency in sentencing and appropriate sentences for owners of dangerous dogs."

Under the new guidelines the top sentence for an owner allowing their dog to be dangerously out of control and injuring someone has been raised to 18 months’ custody, an increase on the current level of around 12 months.

While those guilty of possessing a prohibited breed of dog, such as a Pit Bull Terrier or Japanese Tosa, could face up to six months’ imprisonment.

The Sentencing Council also hope the new guidelines, which cover all offences under the Dangerous Dogs Act (1991), will help courts to ban irresponsible owners who put the public at risk from owning dogs and that dangerous dogs can be put down and compensation can be paid to victims.