Banned and restricted dog breeds in Malaysia

Malaysia, like many other countries, has placed a ban on the entry of aggressive and dangerous dog breeds in the country. This ban is to protect the public and other animals, and only dogs not on the prohibited list are allowed to arrive into the country.

Malaysia has a list of restricted breeds that are allowed in the country only if the dog in question meets all import conditions. These restricted breeds need special approval from the Director General of the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services to enter the country.

If you are planning to bring your pet dog to Malaysia, check the banned and restricted dog breeds list before beginning your travel plans. 

Banned dog breeds in Malaysia

Malaysia’s pet import regulations state that the following dangerous dog breeds cannot travel to Malaysia or be imported into the country.

• Akita
• American Bulldog
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Brasileiro
• Japanese Tosa
• Neapolitan Mastiff
• Pit Bull Terrier (American Pit Bull Terrier or American Staffordshire Bull Terrier)

Restricted dog breeds in Malaysia

Malaysia allows the import of some dangerous dog breeds if the dog meets all the import conditions for restricted breeds. If your dog is a restricted breed, you will need special approval from the Director General of Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services before bringing your pet into the country. The list of restricted breeds includes:

• Bull Mastiff
• Bull Terrier
• Doberman
• German Shepherd / Alsatian / Belgian Shepherd / East European Shepherd
• Perro de Presa Canario (Canary Dog)
• Rottweiler

Before applying for the import permit, you must apply for approval from the Director General of MAQIS. There are several conditions your pet must fulfil before obtaining the permission to import. The consent is given on a case-by-case basis only if the Director General is satisfied that all requirements are fulfilled. The conditions for approval are:

• Your dog must not be younger than three months of age
• Your dog must have a pedigree certificate issued by an approved organisation in the country of origin
• The dog has an ISO-compliant microchip, and the microchip details are recorded on the pedigree certificate
• The name and address of the importer responsible for the dog are mentioned in the application
• The Director will inspect the home where the dog will reside to verify that your pet will be safe and secure. The Director will assess the size of the residence, kennel, the compound and safety and control of the dog. 
• You have to submit a written declaration stating that your dog is a personal pet and not intended for sale. Your dog must be kept secured within your compound at all times and kept on a lead and muzzle when he or she is out in public. Your dog has to be handled by a trained and skilled dog handler at all times.

Travelling to Malaysia?

Pet travel to Malaysia is complicated because of the complex set of regulations and processes. If you are planning to move to Malaysia with your pet dog, reach out to Petraveller for a comprehensive pet travel itinerary.