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In the wake of recent deadly dog attacks, Hong Kong officials have intensified checks on the city’s dog owners.
The clampdown has put many pet owners on high alert. Some even worry that their dogs could be seized.
Dr Angel Ngo is a vet with her own clinic in Hong Kong. She explains Hong Kong’s rules and how owners can best protect their pets.
What are fighting dogs, large dogs and dangerous dogs?
Under Hong Kong law, breeds such as pit bull terriers, Dogo Argentino, Japanese Tosa, Fila Brasileiro and their crossbreeds are classified as “fighting dogs”. There are many restrictions for fighting dogs when they are out in public. For example, they must be kept on a leash no longer than 1.5 metres and be muzzled.
Some of the fear around fighting dogs stems from their strength, Ngo explained. She is also the founder of the local social enterprise for animals, Once And For All.
“Large dogs are not more aggressive than smaller ones, but any reaction from them has a much higher risk of severe injury,” Ngo said.
Beyond specific breeds, there is also the category of “known dangerous dogs”. This includes any dog of any breed with a history of attacking or biting a person or domestic animal, resulting in severe injury or death. They must wear a specific collar and muzzle. They must also be neutered or spayed.
How to interact with dogs safely
Ngo said that interactions with dogs can escalate in an instant.
“When I walk my own dog, I constantly scan my surroundings. If an unfamiliar dog approaches, I make sure I have enough time and distance to step in and pick my dog up before an incident can occur,” she said.
Ngo recommended using a well-fitted harness rather than a standard neck collar.
She explained that when a reactive dog wearing a neck collar is suddenly pulled back, all the force is concentrated on their neck.
A proper harness distributes the pressure across the chest and shoulders. It helps protect the dog’s neck and airway.
Fighting or aggressive dogs should wear a muzzle, the vet said. A well-fitted basket muzzle works best. This type still allows the animal to pant, drink water and eat treats. She strongly advised against the duckbill “quack” muzzle popular among many Hong Kong dog owners.
“If a muzzle is too restrictive, a dog will often try to rub its face against the ground or paw at its nose to force it off. This discomfort only worsens any underlying aggression or irritability,” she explained.
What to do in a crisis
If you or someone nearby is bitten by a dog, prioritise stopping the bleeding. See a doctor immediately.
Get the owner’s contact details, the dog’s microchip number and rabies vaccination history. If the owner is unsure about the vaccination history, the microchip number can help trace it through the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD).
Every dog bite should be reported to the police. An official report allows authorities to monitor for rabies. It also helps them assess whether the animal qualifies as a banned or dangerous fighting breed.
“AFCD officials and vets handling these situations aren’t unreasonable; they are simply following government regulations and rules, which is to protect people and animals,” Ngo said.
