Harare, (New Ziana) -The Harare City Council is moving to tighten regulations on dog ownership following a spike in complaints about stray and aggressive canines across the city.

This emerged during the full council meeting held on Tuesday, where councilors voiced concerns over growing reports of dog attacks in residential areas.

As a result, the council has instructed officials to fully enforce and update the Harare City Council Dogs Act, also known as the Dog Licensing and Control By-Laws.

The move follows similar measures by the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) which last month also raised alarm over the rising cases of stray dog bites in the city, warning that all stray dogs found roaming from May to June will be shot on sight while it enforces a strict “tie-up” order.

“We are seeing more cases of dogs threatening the safety of residents,” said acting director for Urban Planning, Samuel Nyabezi.

“We have been directed to revise and strengthen the Dogs Act to deal with the situation.”

The Harare City Council Dogs Act outlines clear rules and responsibilities for dog owners including that households on plots smaller than 2 000 square metres are allowed only one dog, while residents in high-density suburbs cannot keep more than two.

The by-law also regulates the licensing, control, and proper handling of dogs within city limits.

Mayor Jacob Mafume singled out the Boerboel breed, calling for stricter controls on aggressive dogs.

“These dogs are potentially dangerous weapons,” he said. “We must have strict controls in place to prevent them from becoming a menace to our communities.”

It is expected that the revised by-law will introduce tougher licensing requirements, mandatory registration and microchipping of dogs, and increased penalties for irresponsible dog ownership.

The updated rules will also place specific restrictions on aggressive breeds, including Boerboels, which have been at the center of recent public complaints.

“We want to promote responsible pet ownership,” said Nyabezi. “This is not about banning dogs, but about ensuring they are kept safely and do not endanger others.”

The council said it will engage with residents during the process of updating the law to ensure it reflects community concerns and creates a safer environment for all.

New Ziana