Hong Kong urged to adopt trait-based dog tiers, DNA checks after fatal attacks
Hong Kong should introduce a tiered risk framework and carry out DNA testing and physical assessments to identify dogs with aggressive breed traits, a veterinary surgeon and a lawmaker have said following three fatal canine attacks within a week. The calls made on Monday come after the latest fatal mauling at a pet training centre, where a 33-year-old woman was attacked by a dog suspected of…
Hong Kong should adopt a tiered risk framework and conduct DNA tests and physical checks to identify dogs with aggressive traits, two experts have suggested after a recent series of fatal dog attacks. The calls for policy change came after a woman, 33, was found dead in Ping Yeung Tsuen and had been attacked at a dog training center by a suspected mixed-breed fighting dog.
Authorities found the dog shared genetic traits with the banned pit bull terrier, but its microchip indicated it was a mongrel. This incident raised concerns about the effectiveness of Hong Kong's dog registration system, which relies on self-declaration by owners. Veterinarian Lai Cheong-sang proposed replacing the breed-specific categorization system with a trait-based, tiered system to classify dogs' danger levels and assign corresponding control measures.
He suggested mandatory training, leashing, and regular assessments for dogs suspected of posing a danger. A certification system for individuals keeping or training high-risk breeds was also recommended. Another incident involved an unleashed 60kg mastiff-type dog that mauled two smaller dogs to death in Yuen Long. Authorities are reviewing the definition of fighting dogs and other regulations to ensure public safety.
Currently, four types of dogs – pit bull terrier, dogo Argentino, Japanese Tosa, and fila Brasileiro – and their crossbreeds are classified as fighting dogs in Hong Kong. Existing fighting dogs must be neutered, leashed, muzzled, and wear a special collar in public. The Dangerous Dogs Regulation allows residents to legally possess existing fighting dogs if they present a valid veterinary certificate confirming neutering.
However, experts argue that breed alone does not determine aggression, and other factors such as genetics, bloodline, and breeding play a more significant role. Rebecca Chan suggested dynamic risk assessments for dogs as they mature, citing the need for mandatory DNA tests for all mongrels during licensing.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post - Hong Kong's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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