Animal Groups Say Banning "Aggressive" Dog Breeds Isn't The Solution

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As a result, the two unneutered dogs involved were euthanised after their owner voluntarily surrendered them.

However, animal welfare experts say this approach may be missing the point.

SPCA Selangor's general manager, Kelvin Cheah, said aggression in dogs is not tied to specific breeds.

"We understand the public concern following the tragic incident [that happened on Tuesday]. However, SPCA Selangor does not support breed-specific bans.

"We believe the focus should be on responsible ownership, proper training, secure housing and effective enforcement of existing laws — not generalising entire breeds as dangerous," he said, according to the New Straits Times.

"Most dogs exhibit aggression due to poor socialisation, lack of structure, fear or defensive triggers. Qualified trainers and early socialisation can significantly reduce aggression."

Cheah suggested more practical solutions like:

• Mandatory training and licensing for high-risk breed
• Home inspections for potential dog owners
• Education programmes on dog behaviour

According to the New Straits Times, he said, "There are alternatives such as behavioural rehabilitation, which can be an option for dogs that have shown aggression, if feasible. This involves professional training and behaviour modification techniques to address the root causes of aggression."

He called for stricter rules, including mandatory training and licensing for certain breeds, to make sure owners are fully prepared.

"Rottweilers are typically bred for security, guarding and working roles rather than as household pets," he shared.

The Malaysian Kennel Association (MKA) also spoke out against breed bans, saying that, "No dog is born with an instinct to bite humans, as they have worked alongside us for centuries and view us as their leaders."

Its president, Gopi Krishnan, said a dog's behaviour depends largely on how it's raised.

"People keep guard dogs primarily for the protection of their homes and property, and as long as these dogs are properly socialised and trained, they pose no threat to the public."

Gopi also stressed that irresponsible owners, not dogs, are the real issue. "It is unfortunate that the actions of a few irresponsible owners are leading to restrictions that unfairly affect many responsible dog owners," he told the New Straits Times.

"The well-known adage is 'There are no bad or dangerous breeds, only bad or dangerous owners'. However, in this incident, the dogs escaped from their owner's home, and I'm not passing judgment on the owner.

"Owners must ensure that their dogs don't pose a threat if they escape. While it's natural for guard dogs to protect their property, they must be well-behaved in public," he added.

"MCA Youth feel the focus should not solely be on banning specific breeds but rather on holding owners accountable for their lack of responsible care.

"The dogs, victims of poor ownership and improper management, should not bear the full blame," its secretary-general Saw Yee Fung said, according to The Vibes.

They stressed the importance of investigating owners, especially repeat offenders or those unfit to handle strong breeds.

"Euthanising them may seem like a solution now, but it must not be the blanket solution."

MCA Youth also suggested that trained guard dogs like Rottweilers could even be used to help society — like in border patrol or detecting smuggling.