Recently, in Meishan, Sichuan, an incident involving a Labrador driving on a public road has sparked widespread attention.

Video footage shows a black Labrador sitting in a modified mobility scooter, with its front paws on the steering wheel, slowly driving along a public road while barking loudly as it moves.

According to the dog’s owner, Mr Chen, the Labrador is 5 years old and a local internet celebrity. It has learned various skills such as skateboarding, turning lights on and off, and throwing away rubbish. After just one month of practice, the dog was already able to drive on the road.

The electric vehicle driven by the dog was converted from an elderly mobility scooter, with the braking system modified to use a power-cut brake. Mr Chen explained that this change was made because the dog cannot use a foot brake.

Mr Chen argued that there was nothing wrong with letting his dog drive, comparing it to seeing ox carts or horse-drawn carriages. He added that, after training, dogs can also drive, and he always follows alongside to supervise and ensure safety.

However, staff from Meishan’s traffic authority responded that it is definitely not permitted for a dog to drive on public roads. The vehicle involved has been temporarily impounded, and the case is under further investigation. Officials emphasised that a driver must be a natural person with full civil capacity, and animals operating vehicles is a clear violation of the law. Even if someone accompanies the dog, allowing it to drive still poses serious safety risks.