While doing field research in Singapore, I came across this sign in the Singapore Botanic Garden. The sign informs dog owners that particular dog breeds, and their mixes, are required to be muzzled in public. Upon viewing this, I was made aware that the perception that certain dog breeds are dangerous apparently crosses international borders. The sign lists the following breeds (and related crosses) as requiring a muzzle:
Akita
Boerboel
Bull Terrier
Doberman Pinscher
Dogo Argentino
Fila Brasileiro
German Shepherd
Mastiff
Neopolitan Mastiff
Pit Bull
Rottweiler
Tosa
Currently, the maximum fine for the offense of not muzzling one of these breeds in a public space is S$5000 (Singapore dollars).
While walking through the garden, the only breeds that I noted were Beagles, West Highland White Terriers, and other small mixed breed dogs. It seems as though the Singapore government’s intention of keeping certain breeds from menacing the general public has been effective!
For related articles on regional government pet regulation in the US, see:
Pit Bull and Rottweiler breed sterilization law passed in Lancaster CA
For further information on Singapore’s animal specific laws, please see:
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