Ban on 23 Dangerous Dog Breeds Including Pit bulls, Bulldogs: Understanding Regulations Before Adoption and Existing Ownership

In recent years, incidents of dog attacks have escalated to the extent that they have garnered front-page attention in newspapers. These reports highlighted attacks carried out by dangerous breeds of foreign dogs, sparking discussions across various locations where such incidents occurred. Such canine assaults often mimic the behavior of predators, particularly when these animals become aggressive, they even pose a threat to their owners.

Taking serious note of the rising incidents of attacks by foreign dog breeds in households or apartments, the central government has prioritized this issue. The government is contemplating imposing restrictions on the import, breeding, and sale of 23 dangerous foreign dog breeds, paying close attention to the alarming trend.

Inclusion of Large Breeds like Rottweiler and Pit bull Terrier in Ban

This ban encompasses breeds such as Rottweiler, Pit bull Terrier, American Bulldog, Wolf, and Mastiff, among others. These breeds of dogs pose an extreme risk to humans. The ban will also cover hybrids and crossbreeds of these breeds in the prohibited category.

Expert Opinion on Government’s Decision Regarding Dangerous Dog Breeds

Expert: Dr. Adesh Kumar Varma, Veterinary Consultant, Madan Mohan Malaviya University, Prayagraj

Question: Why did the central government make this decision regarding dogs?

Answer: In the last few months, incidents of attacks by dangerous foreign dog breeds have been noted in various parts of the country. A petition was filed in the Delhi High Court regarding this matter. Following the petition, the Delhi High Court directed the central government to make a decision within three months regarding dangerous foreign dog breeds. 

After the directive from the Delhi High Court, an committee of experts and animal welfare organizations was formed. This committee submitted its report to the Delhi High Court, stating that these foreign dog breeds are aggressive and dangerous in the Indian environment.

Following this, the central government has instructed the states to prohibit the import, breeding, and sale of mixed and crossbreeds of these 23 dangerous dog breeds. Municipalities have also been directed to stop issuing licenses for these breeds. Additionally, a ban has been imposed on the sale of these dogs.

Question: What should be done with the dogs that are already owned?

Answer: According to the letters issued by the central government, those who already own these 23 foreign dog breeds, which are being considered for prohibition, will have to neuter them to prevent breeding.

The central government has instructed states to strictly enforce the ‘Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Dog Breeding and Marketing) Rules 2017’ and the ‘Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Pet Shops) Rules 2018’. Through this enforcement, cases of dog attacks can be significantly reduced.

Question: Why are these foreign breeds of dogs considered dangerous?

Answer: Veterinary consultant Dr. Adesh Kumar Varma explains that breeds like Rottweiler, Pit bull Terrier, American Bulldog, etc., are not suitable for the Indian environment. They are accustomed to cold weather conditions and may find it difficult to tolerate the heat in India. Due to the unfavorable environment, they become more aggressive. 

Pit bulls, for example, need to be walked for at least 30-60 minutes daily. This applies to other breeds as well. However, most owners are unaware of this. They cannot understand the behavior of these dogs and merely focus on keeping them as pets. Training is necessary for their owners when it comes to handling these breeds.

Sheriffs’ dogs, on the other hand, can live with a diet of roti, vegetables, and other food items. However, it’s quite difficult for breeds like Rottweiler and Pit bull Terrier. This is because these dogs belong to wild species. That’s why they become more aggressive.

Question: What rules should dog owners be aware of?

Answer: According to Indian law, it is a fundamental right of citizens to keep pets. However, if you own a dog, it is necessary to first register it with the municipal corporation. This rule applies to all pet animals, and a fee must be paid for registration. Remember that before registration, you must vaccinate your dog against rabies. 

Registration will be done only after that. This registration will need to be renewed after a certain period, as determined by the Municipal Corporation. In many states, it is a rule to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) in writing from your neighbor before getting a dog. If the neighbor does not provide NOC, you cannot keep the dog.

Question: What penalty can be imposed on the owner for dog bites?

Answer: If a pet dog bites someone, the owner can be prosecuted under section 337 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The owner may be liable for a penalty of up to 6 months. If a person dies as a result of being bitten by a pet dog, then the owner can be prosecuted under section 304 of the IPC. In such cases, the penalty can extend up to 10 years.

Additionally, if a domestic animal attacks someone or causes their death unknowingly, then action can be taken under section 304(A) of the IPC. This means that the owner can face imprisonment for up to two years or a fine or both.