MSPs this week raised concern that plans discussed for dog ‘Asbos’ may be too expensive for councils to implement.

Holyrood's local government committee backed the measures, which include fines for irresponsible owners, but have asked for more detail on costs.

They were brought forward by SNP MSP Christine Grahame, under the Control of Dogs Bill. One council, Scottish Borders, said it would need more government cash if the proposals were passed by parliament.

The committee said the bill would address current "piecemeal" dog control laws.

Owners failing to comply with a dog Asbo could also be forced to keep their pet on a lead, have it neutered or attend special training courses.

The total cost to local authorities of issuing dog control notices was estimated at about £4,000 a year, but the government has warned that figure could be too low.

Committee convener Duncan McNeil said Ms Grahame, a South of Scotland MSP, had been asked for more information on the costs. ‘While the committee is in support of the bill, concerns were expressed the costs to local authorities of implementing the dog control notice regime would be higher than is envisaged,’" he said.

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