Press Releases

Stricter controls on 'large dogs'
Thursday, November 16, 2000

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) today (November 16) reminded dog owners to comply with the new leashing controls on 'large dogs'.

An AFCD spokesman said the new control, contained in the Dangerous Dogs Regulation (Cap.167), will take effect from tomorrow (November 17).

"The new requirements stipulate that any dog weighing 20 kilograms or more must be held on a leash not more than two metres in length when in public places.

"Public places include the common areas inside buildings such as lifts, lobbies and corridors, as well as outdoor places of the premises.

"Large dogs may be tied in public places on a leash not exceeding 1.5 metres in length provided it will not endanger the public, other animals or the welfare of the dogs," the spokesman said.

He added that the leashing requirements would not apply to 'large dogs' in country parks and when swimming at sea, providing opportunities for owners to exercise their dogs off leash.

"Dog owners may also apply for leashing exemption if they can demonstrate, through examination, that their dogs are not aggressive and could be controlled off leash," he said.

The spokesman also reminded dog owners that stricter control on fighting dogs had already commenced on June 17, 2000.

"The new regulation bans breeding and importing of fighting breeds, including Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Fila Braziliero and Dogo Argentino and their crosses.

"Fighting dogs must be muzzled and securely held on a leash not longer than 1.5 metres at all times in public places.

"Owners should also arrange to have their fighting dogs neutered. Possession of an unneutered fighting dog is an offence since October 15, 2000," he said.

The spokesman said any person contravening the regulations relating to large dogs was liable to a maximum fine of $25,000 and imprisonment for three months upon conviction. Penalties for contravening fighting dogs regulations are a fine of up to $50,000 and imprisonment for six months.

Members of the public having any enquiries on the new regulations can call AFCD at 2362 3257.