New Zealand plans to outlaw greyhound racing because too many dogs are hurt or killed, the government said Tuesday, spelling an end to the practice in one of the few countries where it still operates.

"Despite significant progress made by the greyhound racing industry in recent years, the percentage of dogs being injured remains persistently high and the time has come to make a call in the best interest of the animals," Racing Minister Winston Peters said in a statement on Tuesday.

The New Zealand government said Tuesday that it would ban greyhound racing starting in 2026, citing concerns over the rate of injuries and fatalities among racing dogs.