Scottish ministers have rejected a “radical proposal” that all dogs should be muzzled in public.
The measure was put forward in a government consultation on proposals to reduce the number of dog attacks and other antisocial pet behaviour.
More than 97% of respondents rejected the idea on the grounds it was inhumane and would do little to reduce the dangers.
However, there was widespread support for a system of compulsory microchipping which would help identify animals and reunite lost pets with their owners. The Scottish Government is now considering the practicalities of introducing it across the country.
Figures released earlier this year showed 554 people were admitted to hospital after being bitten in 2011-12, up from 273 in 1999.
Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill said while long-standing laws were in place to protect members of the public from dangerous dogs, the consultation provided an opportunity to see if legislation could be strengthened.
He said authorities already have the option of muzzling available for dogs in certain cases.
“It was a radical proposal but it was important that communities across Scotland have the chance to give their views of every option available,” Mr MacAskill said.
“It is clear from the responses that communities right across Scotland do not think this is a measure that will encourage responsible dog ownership and, as such, we will not be progressing with any policies on this.”
Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said the “overwhelming public appetite” for some sort of compulsory microchipping meant it was only right the government explore the practical aspects, as well as the costs, before making a definitive decision.
North-east Conservative MSP Nanette Milne said it was important the government bring forward proposals to improve dog ownership rather than kicking it into the long grass.
A spokeswoman for the Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, said it supported microchipping as long it was not in conjunction with a mandatory licensing scheme.
When dog licences were abolished in 1987 they cost 37p and it was estimated that fewer than 50% of dog owners complied.