Shepherd dogs have earned their reputation for exceptional intelligence, unwavering loyalty, and a tireless work ethic. This potent combination of physical and mental traits makes them ideally suited for herding tasks, a role they’ve excelled at for centuries alongside shepherds. While some of these breeds that have featured in the Top 10 International Shepherd Dog Breeds Facing Ban In India may require experienced owners due to their guarding instincts, shepherd dogs as a whole are highly trainable due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. Their athleticism translates to a love of exercise and activity. For active individuals and families who can provide the training, stimulation, and exercise these dogs crave, shepherd dogs become wonderful companions.
A Detailed Look At The Top 10 International Shepherd Dog Breeds Facing Ban In India
In response to a rise in dog attacks nationwide, Indian authorities have implemented a ban on the import, breeding, and sale of certain dog breeds deemed potentially dangerous. This ban includes some shepherd dog breeds considered among the most dangerous shepherd dog breeds in the world in 2024. Local authorities are responsible for enforcing these regulations. Existing pet owners of these breeds will be required to have their dogs sterilized to prevent further breeding.
1. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler, a large, muscular dog breed with an iconic presence, boasts a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire. They were named after the old free city of Rottweil and were originally used for herding livestock and pulling carts laden with meat. Over time, the Rottweiler’s purpose has evolved. Despite their impressive strength and occasional misconceptions, Rottweilers can be gentle playmates within the family circle, transforming into loyal protectors when needed.
Other Names:
Rottweil Butchers Dog, Rottie
Description:
Double-coated, short, hard, and thick coat, usually black and tan or black and mahogany
Traditional Purpose:
Herding and guarding cattle, defending their masters and property
Place Of Origin:
Rottweil, Germany
Why Are Rottweilers Getting Banned?
Concerns over public safety
2. Fila Brasileiro
The Fila Brasileiro, a massive breed with large bones and loose skin, has a centuries-old history. Originating in eighteenth-century Brazil, it was used for tracking escaped slaves. This background as a hunting and herding dog contributes to its strong prey drive and potential aggression towards small animals and other dogs, leading to its classification as one of the top 10 dangerous dog breeds in the world. However, despite their imposing appearance, Fila Brasileiros can also be loyal companions and pets.
Other Names
Brazilian Mastiff
Description
Large, square head with a broad skull, powerful jaw, and a short, smooth coat
Traditional Purpose
Guard dog, cattle herding, big game hunting
Place Of Origin
Brazil
Why Are Fila Brasileiro Getting Banned?
Aggressive behavior and potential for danger
3. American Bulldog
The American Bulldog, a robust mastiff-type dog, traces its ancestry to the British North American colonies, where it labored on small farms and ranches. Strong, athletic, and affectionate, American Bulldogs make wonderful companions, known for their friendliness, loyalty, and affection. They excel as family pets, doubling as vigilant watchdogs, fiercely protective of their loved ones. American Bulldogs are banned in many regions and also feature in the list of outlawed dogs in India.
Other Names
Southern White, White English, Hill Bulldog, Country Bulldog, English White Bulldog
Description
Stocky build, muscular body, broad head, sturdy shoulders
Traditional Purpose
Farm guardians, stock dogs, and catch dogs
Place Of Origin
America
Why Are American Bulldogs Getting Banned?
Involved in a series of attacks
4. South Russian Shepherd
The South Russian Shepherd Dog, a giant among guardians, boasts a powerful build perfectly suited for protecting flocks. This breed likely arose in the late 18th century from a mix of local Russian steppe dogs and longhaired shepherds brought from Spain. Despite their impressive size, these dogs are known for their calm temperament, making them excellent companions for owners who can meet their needs.
Other Names
South Russian Ovcharka, Youjnorousskaïa Ovtcharka, Ukrainian Ovcharka, Yuzhak
Description
Large dog, wedge-shaped head, coat is long, coarse, and thick
Traditional Purpose
Flock guardian dog
Place Of Origin
Russia
Why Are South Russian Shepherds Getting Banned?
Bite statistics, tendency toward aggression
5. Sarplaninac
The Sarplaninac, is a breed of dog primarily used as a livestock guardian. It’s named after the Sar Mountains in the Balkans. In Ottoman times, these dogs moved with the flocks of sheep, spending the summer in the area of the Sar Mountains and the winter in Thessaly. These loyal and protective dogs continue to play an essential role in guarding livestock in their native regions.
Other Names
Sharr dog, Ilirski Ovčar, Illyrian Shepherd Dog, Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog
Description
Large and fluffy, a well-muscled body, and a curved, bushy tail
Traditional Purpose
Guard cattle and sheep
Place Of Origin
Serbia
Why Are Sarplaninac Getting Banned?
Size and strength, protective instincts
6. Central Asian Shepherd Dog
The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is a remarkable livestock guardian dog breed. These working dogs have been selectively bred over time to develop different strengths depending on the specific needs of their tasks. In their regions of origin, Central Asian Shepherd Dogs have a long history of working alongside herders, protecting livestock from predators.
Other Names
Alabay, Turkmen Wolf-Hound
Description
The head is solid, without pronounced stop or sculls, short and long-haired varieties
Traditional Purpose
Livestock guardian, owner protection, dog fighting
Place Of Origin
China/Afghan
Why Are Central Asian Shepherd Dogs Getting Banned?
Increasing dog attack cases
7. Kangal
The Kangal Shepherd Dog is a traditional Turkish breed of large livestock guardian dog. The breed name derives from that of the town and district of Kangal in Sivas Province, located in central Turkey. Some have been exported to African countries such as Namibia, Kenya and Tanzania, where they successfully protect local flocks from large predators, thus contributing to the conservation of endangered cheetah populations.
Other Names
Kangal Shepherd Dog, Kangal Çoban Köpeği, Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Description
Large in size, with a thick, dense, usually short double coat
Traditional Purpose
Flock guardian dog
Place Of Origin
Turkey
Why Are Kangals Getting Banned?
Aggressive behavior
8. Tornjak
The Tornjak is a unique breed belonging to the dwindling group of livestock guardian dogs. Sharing traits with other protectors of flocks, the Tornjak boasts a history dating back to the 11th century. This breed excels at safeguarding its owner’s property and loved ones. Despite their fierce protectiveness, Tornjaks are known for their intelligence and selective breeding has minimized unwarranted aggression. Interestingly, they can be quite pleasant towards strangers encountered outside their territory.
Other Names
Bosnian Shepherd Dog, Croatian Mountain Dog, Herzegovinian Shepherd Dog
Description
A large dog with a long and thick coat
Traditional Purpose
Livestock protection
Place Of Origin
Croatia
Why Are Tornjaks Getting Banned?
Concerns about its behavior and potential risks
9. Caucasian Shepherd Dogs
Hailing from the rugged Caucasus Mountains, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog is a breed that commands respect. Developed in the Soviet Union around 1920 by combining mountain and steppe dog lineages, these loyal companions possess an unwavering protective instinct. Their independent spirit and strength make them exceptional guardians, fiercely devoted to their families. The Caucasian Shepherd Dog was included in a list of 23 dangerous Shepherd dog breeds banned by the Indian government.
Other Names
Caucasian Mountain Dog, Caucasian Ovcharka, Kavkazskaïa Ovtcharka
Description
Giant dog, big-boned, muscular built, coat is straight, coarse with a well-developed undercoat
Traditional Purpose
Livestock guardian dog, bear hunting dog
Place Of Origin
Russia
Why Are Caucasian Shepherd Dogs Getting Banned?
Tendency to attack strangers
10. Akbash
The Akbash is a fascinating breed of livestock guardian dog developed in Turkey thousands of years ago. It likely has some mastiff and sighthound breeds in its lineage. Unlike herding dogs, the Akbash is territorial and wary of strangers, calmly lying among its flock while scanning for danger. Alert, independent, and courageous, the Akbash has strong protective instincts and will bark at perceived threats.
Other Names
Akbaş Çoban Köpeği
Description
Wedge-shaped head, medium or long white coat,
Traditional Purpose
Livestock guardian dog
Place Of Origin
Turkey
Why Are Akbash Getting Banned?
Perceived threat to strangers
A Legacy of Working Dogs: Loyal Protectors, Ancient Heritage
Developed for centuries to guard livestock in challenging environments, these breeds share a deep bond with their human companions and an unwavering dedication to their duty. While their independent nature might not make them ideal pets for everyone, their intelligence, trainability, and loyalty make them invaluable partners for those seeking a courageous protector. As the world of livestock guardian dogs continues to evolve, these breeds serve as a living testament to the enduring human-animal bond forged in the pursuit of safety and companionship.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Top 10 International Shepherd 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:
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 and Sarplaninac, Japanese Tosa and Akita, Mastiffs, Rottweiler, Terriers, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Wolf Dogs, Canario, Akbash, Moscow Guard, Cane Corso, Bandog.
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.