8 Dog Breeds Banned in Singapore

Singapore is known for having strict laws, including restrictions on certain dog breeds. While most dogs are allowed in Singapore, 8 dog breeds are banned nationwide. These banned breeds are considered aggressive and dangerous, making them a potential public threat.
In this blog post, we will look at the 8 dogs banned in Singapore. We’ll explore why these dog breeds are banned and the history behind the restrictions. Though sad for dog lovers and dog owners, Singapore aims to protect its citizens from the harm of these banned dogs.
As Singapore is a highly populated city with most people living in residential towers in close proximity, the Government has been cautious about safety and hence made these rules. Read on to learn more about the 8 dog breeds banned in Singapore.

8 Dogs banned in Singapore

Singapore has identified eight breeds considered unsuitable or potentially risky within its borders. These 8 dog breeds are banned in Singapore to ensure a safe and secure environment for its residents. The banned dog breeds are:

1. Pitbull

Pitbulls, including American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and American Bulldog, are the breeds of dogs banned in Singapore. Pit bulls were once popular in Singapore but were banned in 1991 after a series of attacks. The Pit Bull Terrier and Pit Bull are sturdy dogs with a strong bite force historically used for bull baiting and dog fighting. Pit bulls are still used in illegal fighting rings in some parts of the world today. Their aggression and fighting nature led to Singapore banning them outright. The decision to ban pit bulls in Singapore was made to keep people safe from potential attacks. While some owners argue that pit bulls can be gentle pets, the government decided to prioritize public safety.

2. Akita

The Akita is among the more surprising bans of all the dog breeds banned in Singapore. This breed of dog is native to Japan and is renowned for its loyalty and strength. The most famous Akita was the Hachi, who became a national symbol of loyalty in Japan. Akitas are beautiful and strong dogs often used in hunting and as guard dogs. However, despite their loyalty and beauty, Akitas also have solid territorial instincts, which can make them protective of their property and family. This trait, combined with their large size and strength, has led the Singaporean government to ban owning them.

3. Neapolitan Mastiff

The Neapolitan Mastiff, a breed of dog known for its massive size. They can weigh up to 150 pounds. They were guard dogs and gladiator dogs in ancient Rome. Today, they are potentially intimidating dogs who are protective of their families. Their imposing size and strength make them a formidable and loyal companion. Howerver, these dogs are banned in Singapore due to their size, protectiveness, and potential for harm. Despite this, Neapolitan Mastiffs remain a beloved breed for those who appreciate their protective nature and imposinge presence.

4. Tosa

The Japanese Tosas are among the breeds of dogs unfairly suffering from BSL (breed-specific legislation) and is a banned dog breed in Singapore. The Tosa originates from Japan, where it was historically used in dog fighting. Tosas are enormous, often weighing 80 to 135 pounds as adults. They are a sensitive and quiet breed, but when they do bark, it is impressive. Tosas are excellent guard dogs due to their size and appearance. They are muscular, courageous dogs who are very loyal to their handler. Unfortunately, they are also powerful and capable of destruction, leading to an outright ban in Singapore.

5. Dogo Argentino

The Dogo Argentino was bred for big game hunting and dog fighting in Argentina. They have a white coat and muscular build, weighing 80-100 pounds. Dogos are known to be persistent in their pursuit of prey and have a strong bite force due to their powerful jaws. Their potentially aggressive traits and lethal hunting abilities led to a ban in Singapore. It is imperative to recognize dogs such as Dogo Argentino, which require careful and responsible management to ensure public safety. Ownership of such breeds should be approached with awareness and responsibility.

6. Fila Brasileiro

The Fila, also known as the Brazilian Mastiff, is a large breed with roots in tracking and guarding livestock. They weigh between 90 and 100 pounds. Filas are naturally distrustful of strangers and will not hesitate to act upon their instincts to protect their loved ones. Due to their protective nature, they need extensive training and socialization from a young age to prevent aggression toward other animals and humans. However, Singapore has banned this breed due to its tendency toward unwarranted aggression.

7. Boerboel

The Boerboel is a huge dog breed that originated in South Africa. These dogs are well known for their loyalty, strength, and protective nature. Boerboels were once used to guard farmhouses and protect farmers and their families from dangerous wild animals like lions and hyenas. Today, they are still used for their guarding capabilities, but some people distrust them because of their potential to cause harm.

8. Perro de Presa Canario

The Perro de Presa Canario is a large mastiff-type dog originating from the Canary Islands. They served as catch dogs for cattle herding and dog fighting. These dogs have mascular bulid with coarse coat that has a varous colors. Their history of potential aggression led to a ban in Singapore. Perro de Presa Canario can be a great campanions for experienced dog owners who can provide them with the attention, exercise and the care they need.

Why Are These Dogs Banned in Singapore?

Singapore’s ban on certain dog breeds originated from concerns about public welfare and safety. These breeds are often considered more prone to showing aggressive behavior that could cause risks to the community.
Firstly, size and strength play a role. Very large, muscular dogs like Mastiffs, Akitas, and Tosas can inflict more significant damage if they bite or attack someone compared to smaller dogs. Secondly, breeds of dogs like Pit Bulls, Dogo Argentinos, and Tosas have genetic lines purposefully created for aggression, fighting, and hunting. These are the reasons they are more prone to attack or to cause more harm if they bite anyone or another pet. Lastly, dogs like Boerboels, Filas, and Presa Canarios have the instinct to be highly territorial and distrustful of strangers. This protective nature is risky with the crowded public spaces that urban Singaporean residents share daily.

Dogs That Need to Be Muzzled in Singapore

In addition to banning certain breeds entirely, Singapore also has regulations about muzzling specific types of dogs when in public areas. While less restrictive than an outright ban, muzzling prevents these dogs from biting and aims to reduce risk. Dogs with a history of aggression and potential danger must be muzzled, even if just a one-time incident. Dogs that belong to breeds with higher bite risk and guarding instincts must wear a muzzle in public. These breeds include:

• Rottweiler
• Bull Terrier
• Doberman Pinscher
• German Shepherd and Its Related Breeds
• Mastiffs including Bull Mastiff, Dogue De Bordeaux, and Cane Corso

Conclusion

Hence, the banned dog breeds in Singapore are Pitbull, Akita, Neapolitan Mastiff, Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Boerboel, and Perro de Presa Canario. The 8 banned dog breeds in Singapore have size, strength, and territorial instincts bred into them that the country finds incompatible with its urban environment. While these breeds have traits linked to aggression, proper socialization and training could reduce risks. Compared to other countries, Singapore’s restrictions may seem extreme. However, these policies are implemented to protect citizens, especially in terms of public safety.

As a trusted partner for international pet relocation, we work sensitively with families whose breeds fall under Singapore’s prohibitions. Determining the ideal destination country, securing travel clearances, and handling logistics – we manage all details.

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