For over 15,000 years, dogs have been cherished as ‘man’s best friend’. Studies have shown that both humans and dogs release oxytocin, the happy hormone when spending time together. This explains the trust between the two and the decrease in stress and anxiety levels in humans while bonding with their pet dogs. Despite this, some breeds face bans due to perceived ferocity. An expert committee constituted by the Department of Animal Welfare and Husbandry, Ministry of Agriculture, advises prohibiting certain breeds as pets. Discover details about the Top 10 International Dog Breeds Facing Ban In India, including their origin, traditional purpose, and the reasons for the ban.
All You Need To Know About The Top 10 International Dog Breeds Facing Ban In India
Given the increasing number of incidents of aggressive dog attacks nationwide, authorities have enforced a ban on importing, selling, and breeding specific dog breeds. These include some of the most dangerous dog breeds in the world in 2024. Local authorities are tasked with implementing these regulations. Pet owners must ensure that dogs already in their care are sterilized to prevent further breeding.
1. American Staffordshire Terrier
American Staffordshire Terriers are intelligent, confident, and affectionate companions. While not naturally obedient, they thrive on positive reinforcement. Attempting to force them will lead to resistance, but approaching training as a game ensures eager participation. Despite their tough image, they’re loving by nature. However, their quick temper and biting tendency have led to bans in some areas, classifying them among commonly banned dog breeds globally.
Other Names:
The American Staffordshire Terrier is also known as AmStaff
Description:
Medium-sized, short-coated, stocky, muscular bull-type terrier
Traditional Purpose:
These dogs were brought to America for use as farm dogs or work dogs
Place Of Origin:
United States of America
Why Are American Staffordshire Terrier Getting Banned?
Quicker to anger and bite than most other breeds
2. Cane Corso
The Cane Corso, a majestic and intelligent breed, boasts a noble bearing and a rich history dating back to ancient Roman times. They are versatile dogs known for their intelligence, loyalty, and eagerness to please. They can also be assertive and confident, occasionally displaying a willful nature. Due to their protective and territorial instincts, Cane Corsos excel as guard dogs. However, without proper training and socialisation, their aggression tendencies can pose challenges, this is why this dog is illegal in most countries.
Other Names
It’s called an Italian Corso or Italian Mastiff as well
Description
Large head, alert expression, and muscular with a short, stiff coat
Traditional Purpose
Initially bred as a guard dog and for fighting purposes
Place Of Origin
Ancient Rome, Italy
Why Are Cane Corso Getting Banned?
Aggressive reputation, incidents of attacks, and lack of responsible ownership
3. Pitbull
Pitbulls, one of the top 10 banned dog breeds in the world, form an umbrella label encompassing several types of dogs descended from bull-and-terrier breeds. They carry a controversial reputation due to their history in dog fighting, media coverage of attacks and their biting tendencies. Despite this, they evolved into multipurpose working dogs, serving roles such as herding, hunting, and guarding property. Over time, they transformed from their dark past as fighters to becoming cherished members of families worldwide.
Other Names
Pit Bulls are known by various names, depending on the specific breed and regional variations.
Description
Square-shaped head, almond-shaped eyes with a short and smooth coat
Traditional Purpose
Traditionally used in Cruel Blood sports like ‘bull baiting’ and ‘ratting’
Place Of Origin
United Kingdom
Why Are Pitbulls Getting Banned?
Reputation for being violent and unpredictable and contributing to 66% of all dog-attack-related deaths in the US between 2005 and 2019
4. Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback, originally from Southern Africa, is a loyal and protective breed. Their fearlessness and ferocity when acting as guard dogs are legendary. This may be the reason why they are on the list of outlawed dogs in India. These dogs thrive on physical activity and can adapt to pointing and retrieving tasks. Their rich history and unique traits make them captivating for dog enthusiasts.
Other Names
African Lionhound, African Lion Dog
Description
Medium-large dog with a distinctive narrow band of hair that grows forward along its back, against the direction of the rest of the coat.
Traditional Purpose
Hunting large game – including lions, guarding and protecting
Place Of Origin
Zimbabwe
Why Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Getting Banned?
Strength, hunting instincts, protective nature, and potential aggression
5. Tosa Inu
The Tosa Inu, is a rare breed of dog with Japanese origins. The Tosa varies significantly in size. Japanese-bred Tosa dogs tend to be about half the size of those bred outside Japan. They are dogs with strong territorial instincts and are one of the top 10 most aggressive dog breeds in the world. Despite its controversial history, the Tosa Inu remains a fascinating and powerful breed with a unique place in Japanese culture and dog fighting traditions.
Other Names
Tosa-Ken, Japanese Mastiff
Description
Muscular build with a short and smooth coat, large head with dark and expressive eyes
Traditional Purpose
Dog fighting competitions
Place Of Origin
Tosa, Shikoku, Japan
Why Are Tosa Inu Getting Banned?
Aggression can arise if they perceive a threat
6. Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is another breed that features in the list of 23 dangerous dog breeds banned by the Indian government. This breed was selectively bred for size, strength, and fighting qualities, with the specific purpose of creating a new breed of big game hunting dog, especially for wild boar hunting. While they need plenty of exercise every day, they’re also very vigilant guardians and are very affectionate, especially with their families. Their combination of athleticism, courage, and intelligence makes them a captivating breed with a rich history.
Other Names
Argentinian Mastiff, Argentine Dogo
Description
Large and muscular with a coat that is short and always white
Traditional Purpose
Hunting large game including peccaries, wild boar, and pumas
Place Of Origin
Argentina
Why Are Dogo Argentinos Getting Banned?
Unsteady temperament, size, strength, and hunting instincts
7. Canario
Steeped in history, the Canario breed hails from the Canary Islands, arriving with Spanish conquistadors in the 15th century. The Canario is highly confident and has an impressive bite force of 540 PSI, hence it is one of the 10 most banned dogs in the world. Canarios thrive with abundant exercise. Maintaining their physical fitness is key to their well-being. These powerful dogs exude a commanding presence and are known for their fierce protectiveness.
Other Names
Presa Canario, Canary Mastiff, Canario Mastiff
Description
Large in size and strength, thick body with square head
Traditional Purpose
Originally bred to work alongside livestock
Place Of Origin
Spain
Why Are Canarios Getting Banned?
Concerns about its temperament and potential for aggression
8. Mastiffs
With a history stretching back thousands of years, mastiffs are canine giants. These powerful dogs are some of the biggest in the world. The term “mastiff” encompasses various breeds globally, all sharing ancestry with the ancient Alaunt and Molosser. Beyond their impressive size, mastiffs possess unique personalities and traits.
Other Names
Various names based on region
Description
Short coat, long low-set tail, large feet, large and bulky skull, broad and short muzzle
Traditional Purpose
Guard dogs, hunting, war dogs
Place Of Origin
England
Why Are Mastiffs Getting Banned?
Dog bite statistics, tendencies toward aggression, and use in illegal activities.
9. Boerboel
The Boerboel descends from an old colonial cross-breed of mastiffs and bulldogs, resulting in their impressive size and strength. They are fiercely loyal to their families and make excellent watchdogs. While they are protective, they can also be gentle and affectionate with those they know. While Boerboels can be wonderful companions, their size and protective instincts require experienced owners committed to proper training and socialization.
Other Names
South African Mastiff
Description
Large with a strong bone structure, well-developed muscles, and short, smooth coat
Traditional Purpose
Guard dogs on remote farms and estates and for big game hunting
Place Of Origin
South Africa
Why Are Boerboels Getting Banned?
Aggressive temperament, resistance to pain
10. Japanese Akita
Hailing from the mountainous north of Japan, the Japanese Akita is a majestic breed known for its loyalty, courage, and independence. Their dignified and courageous nature makes them excellent watchdogs, fiercely devoted to their families while remaining aloof with strangers. Akitas can exhibit territorial behavior so they require experienced owners who can provide proper socialization and training to unlock their potential as wonderful companions.
Other Names
Akita Inu, Japanese Akita Inu
Description
Large in size, white, brown, or brindle colors and thick, weather-resistant double coat
Traditional Purpose
Guarding and hunting bears
Place Of Origin
Japan
Why Are Japanese Akita Getting Banned?
Strong protective instincts and potential for territorial behavior
Responsible Dog Ownership: Key to Safety
Responsible ownership, proper training, and socialisation are essential for preventing dog bites. Breed bans can be a tool to promote safety, but it’s important to remember responsible ownership and proper training are crucial for any dog breed. Prospective dog owners should carefully consider their lifestyle and prioritize training and safety when selecting a breed.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Top 10 International Dog Breeds Facing Ban In India
1. What dogs are on the dangerous dog list in India?
Here’s the complete list of dog breeds banned by the government in India:
- Japanese Tosa and Akita
- Pitbull Terrier
- American Bulldog
- Boerboel
- Akbash
- Moscow Guard Dog
- Kangal
- South Russian Shepherd Dog
- Tornjak and Sarplaninac
- Mastiffs
- Rottweiler
- Canario
- Cane Corso
- Terriers
- Central Asian Shepherd Dog
- Caucasian Shepherd Dog
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Wolf Dogs
- Tosa Inu
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Bandog
- Fila Brasileiro
- Dogo Argentino
Most of these breeds feature in the top 10 dangerous dog breeds in the world and similar bans exist in other countries as well.
2. Is Doberman banned in India?
Doberman dogs are not banned in India. Although there have been concerns and rumors regarding their aggressive nature, there is no official ban on owning or breeding Dobermans in the country. However, it’s essential for Doberman owners to be responsible and ensure proper training and socialization to prevent any aggressive behavior.
3. Which are the most aggressive dogs in India?
Some of the most aggressive dog breeds in India are: Pandikona Hunting Dog, Kombai (or Combai) Dog, Rajapalayam Dog, Bulli Kutta (Alangu Mastiff), Indian Spitz, Indigenous Mastiff (Himalayan Guard Dog), Bhutia (Bhotia) Dog.
4. Is Rottweiler legal in India?
Owning a Rottweiler in India is legal, but there are specific regulations and considerations that potential owners need to be mindful of. It’s crucial to stay informed about state-specific laws, insurance requirements, and responsible ownership practices to ensure the well-being of both the dog and the community.
5. What is the most banned dog breed?
The most banned dog breed worldwide is likely the Pit Bull Terrier. It’s important to note that ‘Pit Bull’ is a general term encompassing a few breeds, not a single standardized breed.