Since June, local authorities have stepped up enforcement measures by banning breeds of dogs taller than 35 cm in eight key administrative districts and densely populated rural areas. Each household in these areas is allowed to keep no more than one dog, state-run Xinhua news agency reported today.u00a0

The move has created a scare among the dog lovers with fears of their pets being snatched away by the police. Officials say the initiative was implemented following a spate of dog attacks and a number of rabies-related deaths but the move came under criticism even in the official media.

Animal experts pointed out that the size of dogs need not be directly related to their level of ferocity. Some animal welfare organisations have called for an amendment to the ban and a more scientific and humane solution to regulating dog ownership, the report said.