Hangzhou bans dog walking during daytime, sparks controversy

The topic "Hangzhou's dog restriction imposes fines for walking dogs during the day" became a trending topic on China's Weibo on the 12th, triggering a fierce debate between the pros and cons. Some netizens thought the local government was imposing new regulations on dog ownership, but Hangzhou officials clarified that this policy had been in place for nearly 30 years and was only resurfaced due to recent tightening of regulations. However, most netizens criticized this management method as too rigid.

According to reports from Chinese and Hong Kong media, the "Hangzhou City Dog Restriction Regulations", which sparked heated discussions across the Internet, were first formulated in 1995 and implemented in 1996. They were subsequently fine-tuned and revised in 2004 and are still in use today. According to regulations, in the core area within the Hangzhou Ring Road and north of the Qiantang River, dog walking time is strictly limited to 7 pm every day to 7 am the next morning, and is prohibited throughout the day.

In addition, the regulations impose strict restrictions on the size of dogs. Only 34 types of small ornamental dogs are allowed to be kept outside the home, and they must be on a leash and led by an adult. Large dogs over 45 cm tall and 60 cm in length are prohibited from being kept outside the home, including common dog breeds such as golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers, which are on the prohibited list. If you take your dog out during non-stipulated hours, the owner may be fined RMB 200 to RMB 1,000 (approximately NT$ 960 to NT$ 4,800) per time, and the dog may even be temporarily detained. Failure to apply for a license or annual review may result in a fine of up to RMB 5,000; in serious cases, the dog breeding license will be revoked.

This provision sparked heated debate online. Supporters believe that strictly limiting dog walking time can effectively reduce the risk of dogs nuisance, defecation and frightening passers-by, and help protect the safety and hygiene of public spaces. However, many netizens questioned that this governance method is too rigid. Some netizens complained that they went out to walk their dogs at 8 a.m. and were fined RMB 400 even though they had a legal dog license.

Many office workers have no choice but to say that they work during the day and can only walk their dogs at night. "Every day, I wait until 7pm to rush out of the door. It's like handing in a paper for the college entrance examination." Some netizens joked: "So large dogs are now working from home? Small dogs implement flexible working arrangements, but only for night shifts?"

As for why Hangzhou has the strictest dog restriction order in China, Chinese media pointed out that in the 1990s, urban household dog-keeping was still a niche, and there was a lack of high-definition monitors and digital law enforcement methods. The cost of evidence collection was extremely high. Therefore, the official adopted the principle of "strict control, strict management, and a combination of prohibitions and restrictions."

However, times have changed. According to the "2026 China Pet Industry White Paper", the number of pet dogs in China's cities and towns has reached 53.43 million in 2025, and the role of pet dogs has changed from "guarding homes and homes" in the past to "emotional companionship" for modern people.

"The Paper" commented bluntly that the old rules of 30 years ago are applied to the current new life. It seems to be strict regulation, but in fact it exposes the inertia of urban governance. "The 30-year-old rules should be overturned." Comments suggested that dog walking should be moderately allowed during the day, but leashing and cleaning up feces should be mandatory, and exclusive dog walking areas could be designated in communities and parks.

In response to this, the Hangzhou City Appearance and Landscape Development Center stated that this regulation has been implemented for many years, and the so-called "strictest dog restriction order" has not been issued recently. Currently, in practice, "flexible law enforcement, focusing on education" is adopted. If complaints are received from the public, verbal warnings and persuasion will be given for the first time. Substantial penalties will only be taken if complaints are received for the second or multiple times.