Mounting concern over serious injuries and even deaths inflicted by dogs on adults and children has prompted the government to propose changes to the Dangerous Dogs Act.
The measures suggested include forcing every dog owner to take out third-party insurance and to have their dog microchipped.
The government's consultation is also considering introducing New Dog Control Notices for misbehaving animals.
The "Dogbos" would allow police officers and council officials to force miscreant owners to muzzle, leash or even neuter their pets.
In extreme cases the dogs could be confiscated and given to new owners.
The Communication Workers Union general secretary Billy Hayes welcomed the proposals.
He said: "We've been calling for changes to the law for several years now, following some terrible dog attacks on postal workers.
"Many of our suggestions - including extending protection to private land and issuing control notices or 'dog Asbos' - are now fully reflected in this consultation."
