Addressing the rising cases of deaths due to aggressive dog attacks, especially on children and the elderly, the central government has asked the state government to prohibit the import, breeding, and sale of certain ‘ferocious’ dog breeds, considering them a threat to human life.
The breeds include Rottweilers, Pitbulls, Terriers, Wolf Dogs, and Mastiffs. The ban also includes mixed and cross-breeds of these breeds. This decision was made after a committee of experts and animal welfare bodies submitted a report in response to an order by the Delhi High Court.
A letter has been sent to all states, urging the local bodies to refrain from providing licenses or permits for the sale and breeding of these dogs. These breeds that are already kept as pets are emphasised for sterilising dogs so that no further breeding can be done.
The breeds identified as banned, including mixed and cross-breeds, are
- Pitbull Terrier
- Tosa Inu
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Fila Brasileiro
- Dogo Argentino
- American Bulldog
- Boerboel
- 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
- Bandogs
In addition, the government has urged states to ensure the implementation of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal (Dog Breeding and Marketing) Rules 2017 and Prevention of Cruelty to Animal (Pet Shop) Rules 2018 by the local bodies and state animal welfare boards.
The government has taken this decision to safeguard human life and prevent further incidents of dog attacks. It is a step towards promoting responsible pet ownership and ensuring the welfare of both humans and animals. Local bodies are expected to issue the necessary guidelines for the implementation of the ban.
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