On March 12, 2024, the Indian government banned 23 dog breeds. The decision was made after a committee of experts and animal welfare groups submitted their report to the Delhi High Court in response to an order banning certain dog breeds as pets. The banned dog’s owners are urged to get their pets sterilized to prevent breeding. Let's find out more details about this ban.

The Complete List of Banned Dog Breeds in India 

• 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
• Bandog

The Inside Story of This Ban

On March 12, Dr. O.P. Chaudhry, a joint secretary in the department, informed all states that there have been reports of people dying from bites by aggressive dog breeds kept as pets. Many citizens and groups have urged the government to impose a ban on these dangerous breeds. In response to a legal petition, the Delhi High Court instructed the central government to address this issue after consulting with relevant parties.

In light of the court’s directive, an expert committee was formed, led by the commissioner of animal husbandry and including various stakeholders. This committee identified certain dog breeds as dangerous and recommended that their importation, breeding, sale, and ownership as pets be banned.

But why were these Breeds Banned?

The Indian government’s decision to ban these breeds is due to increasing dog attack cases and human deaths caused by these breeds. The state of Maharashtra reported the highest frequency of dog attacks in 2023 at 4.35 lakh cases. Other states like Tamil Nadu (4 lakh cases), Gujarat (1.75 lakh cases), Bihar (1.65 lakh cases), UP (1.65 lakh cases), and Karnataka (1.65 lakh cases) also reported high numbers of dog attacks. The data shows a rise of 11.32% in dog attacks compared to 2022. Most of the attacks in Maharashtra happened in Pune, Thane, and Mumbai due to poor implementation of sterilization leading to unchecked breeding growth.

What Should Owners Do at This Point?

If you are an owner of one or more dogs that fall under this ban, it’s crucial to comply with local regulations regarding registration, leashing, and muzzling requirements if they exist for your location within India. Be aware that any failure to do so could result in fines or even seizure of your pet by authorities. Additionally, consider taking proactive steps such as enrolling your dog in obedience training programs and ensuring proper socialization with both humans and other animals.

This can help reduce any potential risks associated with these breeds. Furthermore, maintaining up-to-date veterinary care not only promotes your pet’s overall health but also addresses any concerns related to aggression or behavioral issues. Lastly, consider contacting local animal welfare organizations for support and guidance on how best to navigate this situation. They can provide resources and advice on responsible pet ownership while also advocating for fair treatment of your pets under the law.

Conclusion

Dogs are popular pets worldwide, but in India, certain breeds are banned due to their aggressive nature and potential threat to public safety. The Indian government has imposed a ban on certain dog breeds that are deemed dangerous. While the intention behind this ban is to ensure public safety, it is essential to understand that the behavior of a dog is primarily influenced by its upbringing, environment, and training rather than its breed alone.