Dogs

Dogs

Fighting Dogs & Known Dangerous Dogs

Fighting Dogs

Q & A for Fighting Dogs

Q & A for Fighting Dogs

What are “fighting dogs”?

Under Schedule 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Regulation (Cap. 167D), "fighting dogs" cover four statutory types: Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Braziliero, as well as any crossbreed of these four types.

The Control of Fighting Dogs under Cap. 167D

1. The importation of fighting dogs is prohibited.

Pit Bull Terrier
Dogo Argentino
Japanese Tosa
Fila Braziliero

2. The breeding of fighting dogs is prohibited. Existing fighting dogs must be neutered by a registered veterinary surgeon and the keeper of an existing fighting dog must possess a valid certificate from the veterinary surgeon certifying that the dog has been neutered.

A large dog on an operation table

3. When in public places, a fighting dog must be securely fitted with a muzzle to prevent it from biting any person. It must also be securely held on a leash no longer than 1.5m long by a person.

A muzzle
leash not longer than 1.5 metres
4. Fighting dogs must be identified at all times by wearing a specified collar. The specified collar must be at least 1.5cm wide marked on its obverse side with a bright yellow background and at least 4 red diagonal stripes. The stripes must be at least 1.5cm apart and each of them must be at least 1.5cm wide.
Special dog collar

Known Dangerous Dogs

What is a “Known Dangerous Dog”?

Under certain situations, a dog may be classified as a “Known Dangerous Dog” by a magistrate. For example, a dog that has attacked and caused serious injury or death to a person or a domestic animal in the absence of provocation.

The control of “known dangerous dogs” under the Dangerous Dogs Regulation

Known dangerous dogs must be neutered by a registered veterinary surgeon and you must obtain a valid de-sexing certificate from the veterinary surgeon. They must be securely muzzled and held on a leash not longer than 1.5 metres at all times in public places. They must also wear special collars.

A muzzle
Special dog collar
leash not longer than 1.5 metres

Legislation

Applicable Legislation:

Cap 167D DANGEROUS DOGS REGULATION
Those contravening the Dangerous Dogs Regulation are liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for 6 months.