23 Banned Dog Breeds in India You Should Know About

Banned Dog Breeds in India by the Animal Husbandry Department (AHD)

The Ministry of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (AHD) has directed states to ban the sale, breeding, and import of 23 breeds of dogs, including American Bulldogs, Rottweilers, Pitbulls, and Mastiffs, due to an increase in attacks by dogs on people. The AHD has also emphasized sterilizing, pet store regulations, and phased implementation of animal cruelty rules.

Following appeals from PETA India and a writ petition filed in the Delhi High Court, the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying has urged local bodies and the Department of Animal Husbandry to prohibit the sale, breeding, and import of pit bulls and other aggressive breeds to prevent illegal dogfighting.

The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI), under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 (PCA Act), is tasked with overseeing these regulations. The AWBI has received several queries on how to deal with aggressive dog issues and dog bite incidents, as there is growing concern among the public and local bodies, which sometimes leads to unnecessary conflict.

Many dogs that are classified as aggressive were originally bred for specific purposes, such as guarding or hunting. This historical context contributes to the reasoning behind their restriction.

For the effective long-term resolution of conflicts with street animals and prevention of dog bites, it is important that an effective Animal Disease Control Program be initiated by the local authority. When the street dog population is not controlled effectively, dog bite cases increase due to unregulated mating and production of litters. Removing dogs from an area creates instability, leading to rapid increases in local street dog populations.

In India, the regulation of pet dogs falls under the Animal Husbandry Department (AHD) and local municipal authorities. While there is no single nationwide law that outright bans specific dog breeds, many states and municipal corporations have imposed restrictions on certain breeds due to concerns over aggression, safety, and their suitability for Indian conditions.

Several dog breeds have been banned or restricted due to their history of aggression, difficulty in training, and potential danger to humans and other animals. These bans are usually enforced through municipal regulations, housing society rules, or court orders in different regions of India.

List of Banned or Restricted Dog Breeds in India

The following breeds have been banned or restricted in certain parts of India:

Pit Bull Terrier Known for their strength and aggressiveness, Pit Bulls are one of the most commonly banned breeds worldwide. Indian authorities have restricted their ownership due to their potential danger in untrained hands.
Rottweiler: Rottweilers are intelligent and protective but can be aggressive if not trained properly. Due to their strong bite force and dominance, they are restricted in various Indian cities.
Dogo Argentino Originally bred for hunting large animals, Dogo Argentinos are powerful and determined. Their aggressive tendencies have led to their ban in multiple countries, including restrictions in some Indian cities.
American Bulldog: This breed is highly muscular and strong, with an instinct to protect. Due to reports of aggressive behavior, it has faced restrictions in certain housing societies.
Boerboel: A South African Mastiff breed known for its guarding instincts, the Boerboel is considered highly territorial and can be aggressive towards strangers. This breed has been banned in certain Indian states.
Presa Canario (Canary Mastiff) A rare breed known for its dominant and territorial nature, the Presa Canario is considered too dangerous for urban environments and is banned in many countries.
Tosa Inu: Originally from Japan, the Tosa Inu is a breed used in dog fighting. Its large size and powerful bite make it dangerous, leading to restrictions in multiple Indian cities.
Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff): This breed is known for its loyalty but also for its extreme aggression towards strangers. Due to its unpredictable nature, it is banned in several countries and restricted in parts of India.
Wolf Dog Hybrid: A hybrid between domestic dogs and wolves, these animals are often unpredictable and difficult to train, leading to restrictions in many urban areas.

Why Are These Dog Breeds Banned in India?

The banning of certain dog breeds in India is primarily based on the following reasons:

1. Aggression and Public Safety Risks

Many of these breeds have a history of being used as guard dogs, hunting dogs, or even fighting dogs, making them potentially dangerous in domestic environments. Several reports of dog attacks and fatalities involving these breeds have led authorities to restrict them in densely populated areas.

2. Difficulty in Handling and Training

Certain breeds require specialized training to prevent aggressive behavior. In India, where professional trainers are not always accessible, inexperienced owners may struggle with these breeds. Proper training, early socialization, and firm handling are crucial.

3. Legal and Housing Restrictions

Many housing societies, apartment complexes, and gated communities in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Noida have banned aggressive breeds due to liability concerns. Pet owners often face legal challenges when trying to keep restricted breeds in such areas.

4. Unsuitability for Indian Climate

Some of these breeds originate from colder climates (like the Tosa Inu or Presa Canario), making them unsuitable for India’s hot and humid weather. Due to their thick coats and large size, they may suffer from heatstroke and other health problems in extreme temperatures.

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Legal Status and Regulations in India

Although there is no central law banning these breeds nationwide, several regulations exist at the local level:

1. Municipal Corporation Laws

Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation was one of the first to impose a ban on aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls and Rottweilers.
Gurugram and Noida authorities have also restricted certain breeds in housing societies.
Some cities have licensing requirements, where owners must obtain special permissions for restricted breeds.

2. Kennel Club of India (KCI) Regulations

The Kennel Club of India (KCI) does not officially support breed bans but encourages responsible pet ownership.
They emphasize proper training, socialization, and responsible breeding practices.

3. Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960

While this act does not specifically ban any dog breeds, it regulates pet ownership and ensures that animals are not subjected to cruelty or neglect.

4. Court Orders and Pet Restrictions in Gated Societies

Several Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) and housing societies have imposed restrictions on large, aggressive breeds, often citing safety concerns for residents and children.

Can You Own a Restricted Breed in India?

If you wish to own a breed that is restricted in your city, you may need to:

Check local laws: Different states and cities have different regulations. Some municipalities allow restricted breeds with special permits.
Obtain a License: Some areas require dog owners to obtain a special pet license for restricted breeds.
Provide Training and Socialization: Proper obedience training and professional handling may be required.
Follow Housing Society Rules: Many complex do not allow aggressive breeds, so it is essential to check with your Resident Welfare Association (RWA).
Ensure Proper Containment: Large, aggressive breeds should have secured enclosures, leash laws, and muzzles when in public places.

Conclusion

While India does not have a nationwide dog breed ban, certain aggressive and dangerous breeds face restrictions at municipal and housing society levels. The primary reason behind these bans is public safety, as well as the difficulty in handling, training, and maintaining these breeds in Indian conditions.

If you are considering adopting a restricted breed, it is essential to
✔ Understand the breed’s temperament and training needs.
✔ Follow local laws and licensing regulations.
✔ Ensure proper care, training, and containment.

Would you like specific information on how to legally own a restricted breed in your city? 😊

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