Recently, the Indian city of Ghaziabad passed a total ban on certain dog breeds. The Indian Express reports how, in response to recent dog attacks, the Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation announced the ban of several breeds declared as “aggressive.” Namely, the ban includes Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and Dogo Argentino.
Dog Violence in India
Dog violence has become a divisive issue in India. While political parties and businesses manipulate public sentiment towards dogs — especially strays — local activists are working to shift the perception from one of fear towards understanding.
The decision to ban certain dog breeds comes on the heels of a particularly serious incident where a dog escaped their parent’s leash and harmed a young girl. According to the Indian Express, the dog parent was fined for not having his dog registered, and charged with “causing hurt and negligent conduct with respect to animals.”
After facing public outcry for a response, Ghaziabad’s ban seeks to curtail the numbers of specific dog breeds in a comprehensive way. Dr. Anuj Singh, a deputy veterinary officer, told Indian Express, “Owners will not be able to buy new dogs.” Owners have two months to sterilize, vaccinate, and register their existing dogs. Also, a two-dog maximum is being enforced for all households. If a dog is under six months old, then the owner must agree to neuter them when medically appropriate.
Furthermore, the municipal body is creating a new registration system for all dog parents. On top of an annual fee, parents must enter their dog’s age, breed, and vaccination dates. And for those who don’t comply, a hefty fine is only the initial punishment. According to Dr. Singh, “ If the deadline is exceeded, then owners would have to give away the dog elsewhere or sell it.”
Dog Breed Bans Are Not a Solution
On the surface, the ban seems to address the issue, but animal advocates say the government’s solutions are short-sighted. Tandrali Kuli, from animal welfare group Friendicoes in Delhi, says, “A blanket ban is not at all a practical step. They should instead focus on registration and make sure that the owners take responsibility for the dog. In fact, that should be done across Delhi-NCR.”
Meanwhile, others question whether dogs are really the problem. “Why blame the breed?” says Nikhil Mahesh, a member of the Umeed Foundation, another charity group.
“I have rescued many Pit Bulls and Rottweilers which were absolutely friendly. The problem lies with owners not knowing how to manage the dog. No breed is born aggressive. If they are not trained and made social, then you will face challenges.”
