In the heart of a dog lover, every canine is a spark of joy, a companion through thick and thin, and a guardian of both home and heart. Yet, a recent directive aims to dim this spark, labelling 23 breeds as too 'ferocious' to be part of our families. Among these are breeds like the Rottweiler and the Bull Mastiff—breeds I've had the privilege to call family. These dogs, often branded as dangerous, have been nothing but loyal guardians and affectionate members of my household. The recent mandate to ban these breeds is not just an attack on them but a misunderstanding of what they truly represent.
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The character of a dog, like that of a human, is not solely dictated by its breed. My experience with these so-called dangerous breeds paints a starkly different picture. They have been protectors, deterring harm with their presence alone, not through aggression but through loyalty. They've saved our home from intrusion, not with ferocity, but with the silent vow of protection they offer their families.
The proposal to ban these breeds and sterilize those currently in homes is a reactionary measure that overlooks the real issue at hand—the need for responsible pet ownership and proper training. Banning a breed does not address the root cause of dog bites or attacks; it merely shifts the focus away from the need for education and accountability.
The stance against banning specific dog breeds gains further support when considering the reality of street dogs. Often, the risk posed by stray or feral dogs in communities is higher than that from household pets. These dogs, irrespective of breed, can become a public safety issue, primarily due to their lack of socialization, and training, and sometimes basic needs being unmet. Addressing the problem of stray dogs through capture, vaccination, and adoption efforts tackles a significant source of dog-related incidents. This approach not only enhances public safety but also improves the welfare of these animals.
Labelling dogs as inherently dangerous simplifies a complex issue. Conversely, recognising the potential in every dog to be a loving pet, with the right training and socialization, offers a solution that benefits both canines and society. It's crucial to understand that the demeanour of a dog is significantly influenced by its upbringing. Dogs, regardless of breed, can become aggressive out of fear, mistreatment, or lack of proper socialization and training.
Additionally, scientific evidence undermines the logic behind breed bans. Studies have consistently shown that breed is not a reliable predictor of aggressive behaviour. Factors such as the dog's socialization, training, health, and the owner's behaviour are far more indicative of a dog's potential for aggression. Acknowledging this shifts the focus from the dog's breed to the owner's actions, promoting a culture of responsibility and awareness.
The narrative around these breeds must change. It should not be about the breed but about the bond between a dog and its owner, a bond built on mutual respect, understanding, and proper care. Legislation should focus on ensuring that all dog owners are accountable for training and socializing their pets to be well-behaved members of society.
Moreover, this ban disregards the countless stories of heroism and compassion exhibited by these breeds. Their size and strength, often cited as reasons for their banishment, are also what make them formidable protectors of their homes and loved ones. We should not penalize these dogs for their appearance any more than we should judge a book by its cover.
Finally, the decision to own a dog, particularly one from a breed considered powerful or intimidating, should come with the understanding and commitment to invest in its proper care and training. This includes educating oneself about the breed, understanding its needs, and ensuring it is a fit for one's lifestyle and environment.
Our focus should shift from banning breeds to promoting responsible ownership. Love, patience, and proper training can transform any dog into a beloved family member. It's time to advocate for measures that truly address the root causes of dog aggression, rather than punishing breeds for the actions of a few. Let's give every dog the chance to be the companion they're meant to be—regardless of breed.
(All views and opinions expressed in the article are the author’s own)
