Owner indicted after aggressive dog attacks neighbor twice in Taiwan

A dog owner in Yilan, Taiwan, has been indicted for negligent injury after his Argentine Dogo attacked a neighbor on two separate occasions. The dog, which is officially classified as an aggressive breed, was reportedly not leashed or muzzled at the time of the incidents.

The victim, identified as Mr. Chen, was reportedly speaking on his doorstep on the evening of February 23 when the dog, owned by a Mr. Lin, suddenly attacked him, biting his buttocks. As Mr. Chen attempted to confront the owner, the same dog allegedly attacked him again at a nearby intersection, inflicting numerous injuries to his head, neck, torso, and limbs.

Prosecutors stated that Argentine Dogos, along with other breeds like Pit Bulls and Tosas, are classified as aggressive pets by the Council of Agriculture. According to the Animal Protection Act, owners of such dogs must ensure they are accompanied by an adult and take stricter preventive measures when in public spaces. This includes using a leash no longer than 1.5 meters and fitting a muzzle.

Mr. Lin admitted that he had not taken these precautions before the attacks. The prosecutor determined that Mr. Lin's negligence was directly linked to Mr. Chen's injuries. He is now facing charges of negligent injury, which carries a potential penalty of up to one year in prison, detention, or a fine of up to NT$100,000.