The New York City Housing Authority announced a new pet policy Wednesday that will restrict the size and breed of dogs allowed in housing complexes.

Beginning Friday, pit bulls, Rottweilers, Dobermans and any other dog breeds exceeding 25 pounds will be prohibited. City housing officials say the ban comes at the request of many residents, who feel bigger dogs pose harm to children in the neighborhood and are more difficult to train in apartments.

According to NYCHA rules, any pets registered by Thursday will be grandfathered into the system and exempt from new restrictions. Previous housing policies allowed dogs up to 40 pounds in city apartments.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says the new plan discriminates against responsible dog owners and good pets.