No, it is not permitted to own a Chow Chow in Hangzhou. This is because Chow Chows are classified as medium-to-large-sized dogs with a stubborn temperament, making them challenging to train. Their potential for aggression makes them unsuitable for urban environments, hence the ban on keeping them as pets.
Several factors contribute to the prohibition of Chow Chows in Hangzhou. Firstly, their size does not align with the city's regulations for domestic pets. Chow Chows are considered medium-large, and there are explicit rules limiting the size of dogs that can be kept as pets. Secondly, their temperament tends to be volatile and they can exhibit aggressive tendencies. This poses a risk to residents in shared spaces like neighborhoods, especially during walks. Their strength and difficulty to control further exacerbate these concerns. Finally, their stubborn and headstrong nature makes them notoriously difficult to train, further increasing the risk to both owners and the community. The combination of these factors makes Chow Chows unsuitable for urban living in Hangzhou, leading to the city-wide prohibition.
What to Do if You Already Own a Banned Breed
If you currently own a Chow Chow or other breed that is banned in Hangzhou, here are your options:
1. Obtain a Dog License: First, inquire with the relevant authorities about the possibility of obtaining a dog license for your Chow Chow. If successful, be particularly careful about walking your dog in quiet places and at off-peak hours.
2. Relocate the Dog: Consider rehoming your dog in a rural area or other location where breed-specific bans are not in place.
It is never acceptable to simply abandon your dog. This puts both the dog and the community at risk, as abandoned dogs may exhibit aggressive behaviors and face serious threats to their safety. Similarly, euthanizing your dog should never be a first resort; other alternatives should always be explored.