Netizens debate bans on Chinese pastoral dogs in cities across country

Whether to ban or allow Chinese pastoral dogs, an indigenous breed, in cities remain a heated topic online, with discussions sparking renewed debate last week.

The controversy arose after recently revised national public security regulations, set to take effect on Jan 1, 2026, will impose penalties — including detention — on people who own aggressive dog breeds. This means that in cities where Chinese pastoral dogs are prohibited, owners may face legal consequences.

There is currently no nationwide list of banned dog breeds in China.