AFCD Defends Visual Assessment Method for Identifying Fighting Dogs Under Existing Law
RTHK · 2 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has provided detailed clarification on how it identifies and handles fighting dogs under Hong Kong law, following recent enforcement actions that saw at least two suspected fighting dogs removed. The department stated it relies on international experience and visual assessment of dogs' physical proportions and structural characteristics to determine whether a dog falls under regulated categories. Under the Dangerous Dogs Regulation, five types of fighting dogs are prohibited, with the law targeting categories rather than specific breeds. AFCD noted that certain commonly confused breeds—including American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and American Bullies—have been classified under the same category due to their closely related genetics and similar physical features. The department has also reminded registered veterinarians of their obligation to report suspected non-compliant fighting dogs.
Key Points
- The Dangerous Dogs Regulation lists five prohibited fighting dog types: Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Argentine Dogo, Brazilian Fila, and related crossbreeds
- AFCD identifies fighting dogs by visually assessing individual dogs' body proportions and structural features based on international experience, not breed registration documents
- American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and American Bullies are classified together under the Pit Bull Terrier category due to similar physical traits and genetic links
- AFCD clarified this grouping is not new—these breeds have been banned from import and breeding in Hong Kong all along under existing law
- Owners who disagree with classification decisions can apply to the Dogs and Cats Classification Committee within 14 days of receiving notification
Why It Matters
This clarification comes at a time when enforcement actions have drawn public attention to Hong Kong's regulations on dangerous dogs, helping pet owners understand their legal obligations and rights. The department's emphasis on international standards and objective physical assessment criteria provides transparency about how decisions are made, while the appeal mechanism ensures due process for dog owners who may dispute classifications.
This clarification comes at a time when enforcement actions have drawn public attention to Hong Kong's regulations on dangerous dogs, helping pet owners understand their legal obligations and rights. The department's emphasis on international standards and objective physical assessment criteria provides transparency about how decisions are made, while the appeal mechanism ensures due process for dog owners who may dispute classifications.