China tech city dog-walking limits criticised; some question ‘how dogs can get some sunshine’

The eastern city of Hangzhou has sparked widespread controversy by banning residents in its downtown area from walking their dogs during the day.

Under the city’s Restraining Dog Raising Rules, owners of small ornamental dogs in designated “key restraining” areas may walk their pets only between 7pm and 7am. Large dogs cannot be taken outdoors at any time.

The rules stipulate that dog owners must keep their pets on a leash and clean up their excrement immediately.

Violators face fines of 200 to 1,000 yuan (US$30-US$150), and serious cases may result in the revocation of a dog registration licence. In mainland China, people who want to keep dogs in cities must first register them with the authorities and pay an annual renewal fee. Otherwise, the government may treat the dogs as strays and confiscate them.