Hong Kong urged to adopt trait-based dog tiers, DNA checks after fatal attacks

A veterinary surgeon and a lawmaker in Hong Kong have called for changes to the city's dog regulation system following three fatal canine attacks within a week. They suggest introducing a tiered risk framework to classify dogs' danger levels and assign corresponding control measures. This approach would replace the current breed-specific categorisation system.

The proposal includes DNA testing and physical assessments to identify dogs with aggressive breed traits. Dogs suspected of having the potential to cause danger would require mandatory training, be leashed or constrained, and receive regular assessments. A certification system for people who keep or train high-risk breeds is also recommended.

The calls for change come after a 33-year-old woman was fatally mauled by a dog at a pet training centre. Authorities found the dog had genetic traits similar to the pit bull terrier, a banned fighting breed in Hong Kong, despite its microchip indicating it was a mongrel, according to the South China Morning Post.

Brief written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post - Hong Kong, South China Morning Post — 2 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.