Central-Govt bans aggressive dog-breeds

Responding to a surge in fatalities resulting from aggressive dog assaults, the Central government has initiated measures to restrict the importation, breeding, and sale of certain breeds classified as ‘ferocious.’ This directive encompasses breeds such as Rottweilers, Pitbulls, Terriers, Wolf dogs, and Mastiffs, recognized for their potential threat to human safety. The decision follows the submission of a report by a panel of experts and animal welfare organizations, prompted by a directive from the Delhi High Court.

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has dispatched communications to all states, urging them to withhold licenses or permits for the sale and breeding of these specified breeds. Emphasizing the importance of sterilization for existing pets of these breeds, the department aims to curb further propagation.

The list of breeds slated for prohibition, encompassing mixed and crossbreeds, includes:

• • 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

  The correspondence also underscores public concerns and directives from the Delhi High Court regarding the prohibition of select dog breeds as pets. The court had instructed the Union of India to make a determination on the issue after consulting relevant stakeholders, ideally within a three-month timeframe.Furthermore, states are urged to enforce the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal (dog breeding and marketing) Rules 2017 and Prevention of Cruelty to Animal (Pet Shop) Rules 2018 through local bodies and state animal welfare boards.

  This governmental action aims to safeguard human welfare and mitigate the risk of further dog-related incidents. It represents a stride toward encouraging responsible pet ownership and ensuring the well-being of both humans and animals. Local bodies are expected to issue directives for the effective implementation of the ban.