Singapore dog ownership
The HDB dog guide
61 named breeds and permitted crosses, the ordinary one-dog limit, Project ADORE, AVS licensing, and where to go with an HDB dog in Singapore.
61 + crosses Named breeds plus permitted crosses
1 Ordinary dog limit per flat
55 cm ADORE shoulder-height limit
S$15/yr Sterilised dog licence fee (AVS)
S$90/yr Unsterilised dog licence fee (AVS)
S$35 Sterilised lifetime licence, first three pets
Approved breeds
The schedule lists 61 named breeds and crosses of any two listed breeds. Small size alone does not establish eligibility. Confirm uncertain parentage and any permission before committing.
- Full HDB-approved breed list Every approved breed by name, with HDB checker
- HDB checker tool Check the route and any evidence still needed
- HDB breed rules explained The one-dog rule, the list logic, what to do if your breed is not on it
- Browse all breed profiles Every breed with its HDB status, size, cost, and Singapore suitability score
- Cross-breed and mix rule When a mixed-breed counts, and when it does not
- Quieter approved breeds For light-sleeping households and considerate neighbours
Project ADORE and Singapore Specials
Local mixed-breeds can live in HDB flats under Project ADORE if they are sterilised, microchipped, assessed, and no more than 55 cm at the shoulder, with the partner assessment and mandatory training requirements met.
- Project ADORE explained Eligibility, the paperwork process, and what the assessment covers
- Adopting via Project ADORE How adoption rescues use the scheme and what to ask them
- Explore rescue dog listings Confirm availability and eligibility directly with the rescue
- Adoption guide The full process from shelter visit to licence
Licensing, noise, and the law
Every dog in Singapore needs an AVS licence. HDB eligibility, licensing and responsible care are separate requirements. Keep the licence and address details current.
- HDB dog rules guide The one-dog rule, approved breeds, enforcement, and condo differences
- AVS licensing requirements What is required, by when, and how to apply
- AVS licence fees Annual, multi-year and sterilised lifetime options; check official rates
- Border Collie and HDB Not approved: what the options are
- Shiba Inu and HDB Not approved: what the options are
- Golden Retriever and HDB Not approved: what the options are
Where to go with your HDB dog
HDB estates are close to most of Singapore's dog run network. Void-deck etiquette matters more than people admit: read the unwritten rules before your first visit.
- Dog parks and dog runs in Singapore Every fenced off-leash run, ordered by region and facilities
- Parks near HDB estates Neighbourhood parks with dog-on-lead access
- Dog-friendly cafes, beaches, parks The full Singapore directory of vetted dog-friendly venues
- Dog run etiquette What good flat owners do differently at the run
- Upcoming dog events Yappy hours, community days, and pop-ups this month
- Walking safely in Singapore heat When to go, what to watch for, when to stay home
Indoor life: enrichment and training
Small HDB breeds are often high-energy. Enrichment inside the flat reduces barking and destructive behaviour without needing a garden.
- Find an accredited dog trainer ISCP, PPGA and KPA-certified trainers in Singapore
- Dog training guides Recall, crate, toilet, and flatmate-friendly recall
- Toilet training in an HDB flat The pee-pad-to-pavement method that works in a corridor flat
- How much walk does your dog need? Daily walk target by breed, age, and Singapore heat
- Four-week training plan A daily plan you can run entirely inside a flat, scaled to your time
- Low-barking breeds for HDB Breeds that are naturally quieter in enclosed spaces
Vet care, food, and supplies
HDB breeds tend to live longer than larger dogs. Dental disease and obesity are the two conditions most common in small flat-kept dogs.
- Find a vet near you The full Singapore vet clinic directory, searchable by region
- Dog food safety database Singapore grocery brands checked for xylitol, onion, and other toxins
- Dog birthday plan Recipe and a local bakery, matched to your dog by breed and size
- How to find the right vet What to look for, how to assess a clinic, when to get a second opinion
- Boarding and daycare When you need to travel and your dog cannot come
Frequently asked questions
- Which dog breeds are allowed in HDB flats?
- The HDB schedule lists 61 named breeds plus crosses of any two listed breeds. They are mostly smaller dogs: Maltese, Poodle (Toy or Miniature), Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, Chihuahua, miniature Dachshund, Jack Russell Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, Pomeranian, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Japanese Spitz, Pug, and Yorkshire Terrier are examples from the list. See the full list at HDB or on our HDB-approved breeds page.
- How many dogs can I keep in an HDB flat?
- The ordinary limit is one dog from the approved list per flat. Project ADORE is a separate assessed route. Other cases require the relevant written permission; do not assume an exception applies to you.
- Can I keep a Singapore Special in an HDB flat?
- Yes, through Project ADORE. A local mixed-breed dog may be kept in an HDB flat if it is microchipped, sterilised, has passed a temperament assessment, and its shoulder height does not exceed 55 cm. Partner approval, mandatory training, vaccination, licensing and the Code of Responsible Behaviour also apply. The expanded criteria introduced in 2020 were formalised in 2022. Details are on the AVS Project ADORE page.
- Does my dog need to be licensed in Singapore?
- Yes. Every dog in Singapore must be licensed with AVS, regardless of housing type. The licence fee is S$15 per year for a sterilised dog, and S$90 per year for an unsterilised dog. For the first three pets, sterilised licences also cost S$25 for two years or S$35 for lifetime. Unsterilised licences cost S$165 for two years or S$230 for three years. Dogs under five months cost S$15 for one year. Electronic payment receives a 10% rebate. Microchipping is required, and first-time applicants must complete the free Pet Ownership Course before applying through PALS.
- What happens if I keep an unapproved breed in an HDB flat?
- Keeping a dog outside the permitted rules can lead to enforcement and a fine of up to S$4,000 under the Housing and Development (Animals) Rules 2024. Good behaviour or long-term ownership does not automatically confer permission. Ask HDB about the individual case before committing or moving.
- Are Shiba Inus, Golden Retrievers, or Border Collies allowed in HDB?
- No. None of these breeds are on the HDB approved list. Size alone is not the legal test. Do not keep an unlisted dog without the relevant permission. Each has its own guide on this site explaining the situation and what alternatives suit HDB life.
- Where can HDB dogs go off-leash in Singapore?
- Singapore's network of fenced dog runs is open to all dogs, including HDB breeds. Many are within walking distance of HDB estates, including runs at Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, Punggol Waterway, Sembawang Park, and neighbourhood parks across the island. See our full dog parks guide.