According to Maia Bitadze, Chair of the Environmental Protection and Natural Resources Committee, information claiming that a new regulation will enter into force on 1 January 2026, obliging dog owners to walk their dogs only with a muzzle, is incorrect.

“We would like to emphasize that under the existing regulation governing dog walking, the use of a muzzle is not mandatory. Instead, alternative conditions are established. Specifically, dog owners have the right to choose and may walk their dogs either using only a muzzle or only a leash”, - Maia Bitadze stated.

She further explained that this regulation on dog walking has been in force in Georgia for years. Previously, violation of this rule was subject to a 20 GEL fine. As a result of amendments introduced in 2023, the fine was increased to 150 GEL, and this amount will remain unchanged from 1 January 2026.