In response to a surge in incidents involving aggressive dog attacks leading to fatalities, the Central government has initiated a significant measure by urging states to impose a ban on the import, breeding, and sale of certain dog breeds deemed hazardous. Among the breeds targeted are Rottweiler, Pitbull, Terrier, Wolf dogs, and Mastiffs, perceived as posing a threat to human safety. The prohibition extends to mixed and crossbreeds associated with these breeds as well. This decision follows the submission of a comprehensive report by a committee comprising experts and animal welfare bodies, in compliance with an order from the Delhi High Court.
The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying has dispatched correspondence to all states, urging local authorities to abstain from issuing licenses or permits for the sale and breeding of these designated dog breeds. Additionally, emphasis has been placed on the importance of sterilizing dogs of these breeds already kept as pets to curtail further breeding.
The breeds enlisted for the ban, encompassing mixed and crossbreeds, include:
• 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
Furthermore, the communication underscores the concerns voiced by citizens and animal welfare organizations, coupled with the Delhi High Court's directive to prohibit specific dog breeds as pets. The court had instructed the Union of India to deliberate on the matter in consultation with all stakeholders, preferably within a three-month timeframe.
In tandem with the ban, the government has urged states to ensure compliance with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal (dog breeding and marketing) Rules 2017 and Prevention of Cruelty to Animal (Pet Shop) Rules 2018 by local authorities and state animal welfare boards.
The government's decisive action aims to safeguard human life and forestall further occurrences of dog-related attacks. It signifies a pivotal step towards advocating responsible pet ownership and upholding the welfare of both humans and animals alike. Local authorities are anticipated to issue requisite guidelines for the effective implementation of the ban.