HONG KONG – A suspected dog attack in Hong Kong on Monday left two small dogs dead, sparking a heated debate about pet ownership, with the attacking canine, named “Larry,” now facing possible euthanasia.

The 5-year-old mixed-breed Spanish Mastiff, weighing 50 kg, went on a rampage, killing a poodle and a Bichon Frise within 20 minutes near Yoho mall in Yuen Long, according to media reports.

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said in a statement on Tuesday that the dog’s keeper had been arrested. The dog is currently being placed under observation at the AFCD’s animal management center.

The dog had previously been detained on July 10 in connection with another dog attack case, according to the AFCD.

“It was subsequently reclaimed by its keeper. At the time, AFCD warned the keeper that the dog must be securely held on a leash not exceeding two metres in length in public places and must be kept under proper control,” AFCD said in a statement.

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Kent, head of the animal protection group Paws Guardian Rescue Shelter, told the media that he has been in contact with the dog owner, identified as Mr Ng.

Ng lives in a village house and kept Larry outdoors, enclosed by corrugated metal sheeting. However, the dog had a habit of digging holes in sandy ground to escape. After the July 10 incident, Ng reinforced the ground, but Larry managed to dig his way out again on Monday. Kent said Ng was at work at the time and was unaware of the attack.

Quoting Ng, Kent said Larry has a sad history of multiple abandonment over the past five years, having passed through four different owners.

Kent said Larry was originally one of a pair of mastiffs bought by a wealthy man, but was given to a second owner after the two dogs frequently fought. Larry was then passed on again before ending up with Ng, his fourth owner.

Despite the incident, Kent noted that Larry is usually very friendly to people and gets along well with the other small dog in the household. Ng said he does not understand why Larry attacked and killed the two dogs.

According to Kent, AFCD officials told Ng, when he was arrested on Monday, that they would “handle” his dog. Not understanding that “handle” meant euthanasia, Ng signed a surrender form. Having since realized the meaning, Ng regretted his decision and now plans to request cancellation of the surrender.

Ng acknowledged his fault in the incident and said he is eager to save Larry, promising remedial measures, including handing the dog over to Paws Guardian for behavioral training and ensuring it wears a muzzle in the future.

Kent argued that the large dog is innocent, emphasizing that it has never shown aggression toward humans. “You should punish the owner, not use Larry,” he added.

He said his organization is willing to take in Larry, find a trainer for him and ensure all safety measures are followed.

Duties of dog owners

Jackie Yip, an assistant director of AFCD, told RTHK that putting down the dog is one of the options under discussion with the owner.

“If the owner ultimately decides to hand the dog over to the government, we will determine an appropriate arrangement. If necessary, we will also consider euthanasia,” Yip said.

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The incident has underscored the legal responsibilities of dog owners in Hong Kong.

Under the Dangerous Dogs Regulation, a large dog weighing 20 kg or more must be securely held on a leash not exceeding two meters in length when in a public place. Breaching this requirement can result in a fine of HK$25,000 and up to three months in prison.

Meanwhile, the Rabies Ordinance stipulates that all dogs, regardless of size, must be kept on a leash or otherwise under proper control in a public place. Violations carry a fine of HK$10,000.