The Kedah government has introduced a new guideline banning the ownership of aggressive dog breeds in residential areas.
State housing, local government and health committee chairman Mansor Zakaria said the guideline had been added to Kedah’s local council by-laws, Sinar Harian reported.
“We no longer allow aggressive dog breeds to be kept in residential areas. If they must be kept, it is only permitted on farms, or in orchards and construction sites,” he was quoted as saying.
The move follows a recent incident in Kuala Ketil, where two Rottweilers attacked five people after escaping their cage in Taman Desa Bidara.
The dogs were later euthanised by the Kedah veterinary services department, while the owner was fined RM8,500 after pleading guilty to five charges of negligence in the Baling magistrates’ court.
Mansor said that the breeds considered dangerous include Rottweilers, American Bulldogs, and Pit Bull Terriers due to their potential to cause serious injuries if not properly trained.
He added that existing laws allow authorities to take action against dog owners who either lack proper licences or fail to control their pets.
“If a dog is unlicensed, action can be taken. Even if it’s licensed, but is not confined, taken outside without a leash, or disturbs neighbours, action can still be taken.
“The safety of the community is a priority. If owners cannot control their pets, they become a danger to the surrounding residents,” he said.
In 2024, Kedah received 2,395 dog-related complaints, including 56 attacks and 24 biting incidents. In March alone, 550 complaints were recorded, with nine attacks and four biting incidents.
