German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the world. It was initially bred as a herding dog for the purpose of herding sheep. However, German Shepherds are now being used for multiple other purposes like sniffing out explosives and evidence for the police, search and rescue, disability assistance and more. German Shepherds are also widely preferred as house pets.
German Shepherd are medium to large-sized, with standard heights ranging between 55cm to 65 cm. They are characterised by a domed head, a long square cut muzzle with strong jaws and black nose. German Shepherds are known for their high energy levels and intelligence. There are multiple variants of German Shepherds, such as King Shepherd, East European Shepherd, White Shepherd and Shiloh Shepherd.
Status of German Shepherds in India
German Shepherds are not banned nationwide in India. They are widely adopted as pets by domestic households and also extensively deployed by police and security forces in the country. The confusion regarding a ban on German Shepherds in India arose due to a circular issued by the Ministry of Dairying and Animal Husbandry on 12th March 2024.
This circular issued by the Central Government proposed a ban on the sale and breeding of 23 breeds of dogs, deemed dangerous to public safety. The ministry urged the state governments and local authorities to discontinue issuing licences or permits for the sale and breeding of the 23 breeds of dogs, categorised as dangerous. With respect to existing pets of the selected breeds, the recommendation stressed on proper vaccination and sterilisation.
The 23 dog breeds named in the circular were Pitbull Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, American Staffordshire Terrier, Boerboel, American Bulldog, Kangal, Caucasian Shepherd Dog, Central Asian Shepherd Dog, Tornjak, South Russian Shepherd, Japanese Tosa and Akita, Rottweiler, Mastiffs, Sarplaninac, Wolf Dogs, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Terriers, Moscow Guard Dog, Akbash Dog, Cane Corso and Canario.
As is evident from the list, a ban on German Shepherd was not recommended by the Central Government in its March 2024 circular. The circular itself was later stayed by both Delhi High Court and Karnataka High Court.
State or City Specific Ban
The civic body of Bengaluru, Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagar Palike, has banned German Shepherds, especially in apartments due to safety concerns. The ban is also applicable on certain other breeds like Rottweiler, Doberman, Pitbull and Great Dane. Banned means the residents are not allowed to keep these breeds under any condition.
Santosh Kumar is a Professional SEO and Blogger, With the help of this blog he is trying to share top 10 lists, facts, entertainment news from India and all around the world.
