​The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) announced today (September 6) that the special inspection and enforcement operations on the proper control of dogs, conducted across various locations in Hong Kong on August 30, September 5 and 6, have concluded successfully.

     During the three-day enforcement operations, AFCD officers stepped up inspections at public places where dogs congregate, and detected a total of three suspected cases where large dogs were not being securely held on a leash in public places. AFCD officers will follow up on these cases and institute prosecutions accordingly.

     An AFCD spokesman said, "The special operation aimed to raise awareness among dog keepers to properly control their dogs in public places and to reduce incidents of dog attacks arising from improper control, while promoting the message of responsible pet ownership and explaining relevant statutory requirements to members of the public."

     Under the Rabies Ordinance (Cap. 421), dogs in a public place must be held on a leash or otherwise under control. The Dangerous Dogs Regulation (Cap. 167D), even states more explicitly that large dogs (weighing 20 kilograms or above) must be securely held on a leash not exceeding two metres in length by a person when in a public place. Contravention of the relevant requirements is liable to a fine and imprisonment upon conviction.

     The AFCD emphasised that properly controlling dogs in public places is not only a legal requirement but also helps safeguard public and animal safety. The AFCD will continue to step up routine inspections and enforcement, and appeals to members of the public to be responsible pet owners by keeping their dogs under proper control at all times. Members of the public who wish to learn more about the proper control of dogs and how to be a responsible pet owner may visit the AFCD website (www.pets.gov.hk).

Ends/Sunday, September 6, 2026
Issued at HKT 21:19

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