In March 2024, the government issued a dog breed ban marking 23 Dog breeds banned in India, making it illegal to import, sell, and breading of such dog breeds.
These dog breeds were labeled as “ferocious” by the government after a series of dog attacks. The dog breed ban included popular dog breeds like Rottweilers, Japanese Tosas, American Bulldogs, etc causing significant distress among pet parents.
Pet parents were urged to sterilize their pets, adding to their worries.
Fortunately, on 3rd May 2024, the Delhi and Karnataka High Courts lifted the ban following the petitions for many pet parents.
The Courts found that the government decision lacked proper consultation with the concerned pet parents directly affected by the incidents that led to the ban.
Recently the Madrassa High As of now, the ban has been temporarily lifted, and a more balanced solution is being developed.
It is only a recommendation and no order has been passed to ban the dog breeds.
Breeds that are included in the list are as follows:
- Pitbull Terrier
- Tosa Inu
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Fila Brasileiro
- Dogo Argentino
- American Bulldog
- Boesboel
- Kangal
- Central Asian Shepherd Dog
- Caucasian Shepherd Dog
- South Russian Shepherd Dog
- Tornjak (Sarplaninac)
- Japanese Tosa and Akita
- Mastiffs
- Rottweiler
- Terriers
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Wolf Dogs
- Canario
- Akbash
- Moscow Guard
- Cane Corso
- Bandog
If your pet is one of the 23 'banned' dog breeds, don't worry. Nothing will change for you and your dog. It will only come in effect when municipal bodies decide to act on it.
If your local authorities ban selling and breeding of them, remember that your dog cannot be taken away by them. The recommendation clearly states that dogs already owned as pets can stay with their families.
You should also be aware that they are protected under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960.
We strongly recommend that pet parents get their dogs vaccinated and registered with their local municipal bodies to ensure all necessary documentation is in order if the ban is implemented.
While understanding the facts is important, we must also recognize the practical realities. Breeds such as Rottweilers, Pit Bulls, and Bulldogs often have a poor reputation in India due to three main reasons:
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- Negative and sensationalized media portrayals.
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- The increase of illegal and irresponsible dog breeding in recent years.
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- Misconduct by a minority of pet owners, giving these breeds a bad name.
Although changing media perspectives is challenging, we can definitely address the issues of breeding and responsible pet ownership.
If they prefer buying, guide them to reputable and licensed breeders instead of local pet shops.
As dog lovers and responsible parents, we must be mindful that we share our communities with others, some of whom may not be comfortable around dogs.
Respecting everyone’s comfort level is key.
- Ensure your dog is leashed in public spaces, including residential areas, and behaves calmly without jumping on or barking at people or other dogs.
- Clean up after your dog during walks.
- Keep your dog healthy with regular veterinary check-ups, grooming, vaccinations, provide a balanced diet, and ensure their mental well-being with quality time and enrichment activities.
- If your dog has behavioral issues like reactivity or aggression, seek help from a certified dog trainer or behaviorist to address these issues effectively.
Our dogs are ambassadors for their breeds and for dog community as a whole. Our actions now will help create a supportive environment for our dogs.
Let’s be the responsible pet parents our dogs need, ensuring our actions today don’t lead to negative consequences for these innocent breeds.
Protecting the people and our dogs must be a top priority, but this can be accomplished without resorting to breed-specific bans.
Safety concerns are understandable, but we must consider the welfare of the dogs and their parents as well.
A balanced approach that includes education, regulation, and community accountability offers localities a much greater chance of successful and humane population management.
Always remember, it’s never the dog’s fault.
If you come across an abandoned dog, here's what you can do:
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- Assess the dog's condition from a distance.
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- Approach calmly and cautiously if the dog seems approachable.
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- Offer food and water if available.
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- Report the abandoned dog to local authorities or animal welfare organizations.
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- Check for any identification tags or collars.
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- Seek assistance from professionals if needed.
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- Provide temporary shelter if it's safe to do so.
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- Avoid approaching aggressive dogs and instead contact authorities for help.
Municipal Corporations: They mostly have separate departments to handle dog registration.
- Delhi - https://mcdonline.nic.in/petmcd/web/citizen/info
- Mumbai - https://www.mcgm.gov.in/irj/portal/anonymous/qlAppDodL
- Bangalore - https://site.bbmp.gov.in/departmentwebsites/Animal%20Husbandry/
- Lucknow - http://www.animalhusb.upsdc.gov.in/en/state-animal-welfare-board
Veterinary Hospitals: You can consult your dog to know if they provide
registrations, or to ask guidance for the process.
It is advised to visit your local municipal corporation website or office to know
detailed formalities for the process.
- Application Form obtained from the municipal corporation.
- Proof of Vaccination of dog
- Owner’s ID Proof
Make sure to check with your local authorities for specific requirements.
Even in the case of puppies, most of the restrictions will be same, as for adult Dogs.
Consult your vet or Local animal Control for ethical and legal control and guidance over
the situation.
