A recent government crackdown following a series of dog attacks has led to a sharp increase in demand for canine DNA testing, while animal welfare groups caution that the stringent enforcement measures may result in a rise in pet abandonments.

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) intensified inspections and seizures across the city after several incidents involving aggressive dogs. One high-profile case involved a 33-year-old owner of a pet training facility who was fatally mauled by a mixed-breed dog initially registered as a mongrel. Subsequent analysis revealed the animal possessed genetic markers of a pit bull terrier, a breed banned from import and unauthorized breeding in Hong Kong.

This incident exposed significant gaps in the city’s microchip-based self-declaration registration system. As concern spread, many dog owners sought DNA testing to verify their pets’ lineage and avoid confiscation.

Clement Lai Yat-lung, founder of Hero DNA, reported a fivefold increase in testing inquiries in recent days, rising from around 10 to 50-60 weekly. Lai noted that owners, especially those with mongrels, were anxious about potential seizures and viewed DNA testing as a means of protection. “They see that their dogs are not purebred and worry that the animals may be seized. So they come to us for help,” he said. He also cited an incident where a woman was seen hitting a mongrel with an umbrella amid mounting public tension.

To meet demand, Lai’s company has shortened test turnaround times from 30 days to 10, despite higher operational costs.

However, Mark Mak Chi-ho, founder of the Non-Profit Making Veterinary Services Society, warned that the crackdown could lead some owners to abandon their pets rather than risk legal penalties. He expressed concern about unregistered free-ranging dogs, which might be discarded due to fears over breed classification. Mongrels, in particular, are at risk of being misidentified as fighting or dangerous dogs based on physical traits. Mak urged clearer regulations and better communication to reassure owners, stressing that registered and sterilized dogs should not be penalized regardless of breed.

Animal shelters have also reported increased inquiries about surrendering dogs. Kent Luk Ka-chit, founder of Paws Guardian Rescue Shelter, said daily calls about potential abandonment now reach two or three, compared to one or two weekly previously. Luk described a case where a licensed dog was detained after veterinary vaccination, prompting its owner to abandon the animal. He highlighted the additional responsibilities placed on owners of dogs classified as fighting breeds, including the use of short leashes, muzzles, distinct collars, and possibly mandatory insurance.

Luk criticized the government’s approach as divisive and counterproductive, advocating instead for public education and a grace period allowing owners to voluntarily declare their pets’ breed traits without immediate enforcement.

Similarly, Lau Chun-hoi, coordinator of the NGO Animal Welfare Advocacy Alliance, said government actions had increased pressures on pet owners, contributing to a 50 percent rise in abandonment cases in the past month. He expressed concern that the sudden detainment of suspected fighting dogs could alter their behavior and increase aggression. Lau called for a more measured pace, arguing that a brief extension of compliance deadlines would not pose a significant public safety risk.

While officials maintain the need for strict regulation of banned breeds, advocates emphasize the importance of balancing enforcement with support for responsible pet ownership to prevent unintended negative consequences.