Living in an HDB flat shouldn’t mean missing out on the joy of pet companionship. There are strict but manageable pet rules designed to keep Singapore’s neighbourhoods peaceful, animal-friendly, and safe. Whether you’re looking for a furry friend, clarifying ownership limits, or finding the right dog breed, all the essentials are covered here.
Latest HDB Pet Regulations (2025)
Ownership is governed by the Housing and Development (Animals) Rules 2024 and new animal welfare policies. Key highlights:
- One dog per HDB flat, and only breeds on the HDB-approved list are permitted.
- Up to two cats are now allowed per flat if properly licensed (mandatory since 1 September 2024).
- All dogs and cats must be licensed with AVS, with fines of up to S$4,000 for non-compliance.
- Project ADORE: Special path for local mixed-breed “Singapore Specials” up to 55cm shoulder height, adopted through accredited animal welfare groups with mandatory training and trial homestay assessments.
Strictly prohibited breeds (including Pit Bulls, Akitas, Rottweilers, Dobermans, Huskies, and others) are not allowed in HDBs and, for some, anywhere in Singapore.
FULL List: 62 HDB-Approved Dog Breeds
| Affenpinscher | Maltese |
| Australian Silky Terrier | Manchester Terrier |
| Australian Terrier | Miniature Pinscher |
| Bichon Frise | Miniature Schnauzer |
| Bohemian Terrier | Norfolk Terrier |
| Bolognese | Norwich Terrier |
| Border Terrier | Papillon |
| Boston Terrier | Pekinese |
| Brussels Griffon | Pomeranian |
| Bichon Havanese | Poodle (Miniature) |
| Cairn Terrier | Pug |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Schipperke |
| Chihuahua | Scottish Terrier |
| Chinese Crested Dog | Sealyham Terrier |
| Chinese Imperial Chin | Shetland Sheepdog |
| Chinese Temple Dog | Shih Tzu |
| Coton de Tulear | Silky Terrier |
| Czech Terrier | Small Continental Spaniel |
| Dachshund (Light/Miniature) | Small English Terrier |
| Dandie Dinmont Terrier | Small Spitz |
| English Toy Spaniel | Smooth Fox Terrier |
| German Hunting Terrier | Toy Fox Terrier |
| Griffon Belge | Toy Terrier |
| Griffon Brabancon | Tibetan Spaniel |
| Hairless Dog | Volpino Italiano |
| Italian Greyhound | West Highland Terrier |
| Jack Russell Terrier | Wire-haired Fox Terrier |
| Japanese Spaniel (Chin) | Welsh Terrier |
| Japanese Spitz | Yorkshire Terrier |
| Lakeland Terrier | Little Lion Dog |
| Lhasa Apso | Bichon Havanese |
Remember: Mixed-breed dogs are allowed only if their lineage and size fit HDB policy or are registered via Project ADORE.
Project ADORE: Singapore Specials & Responsible Adoption
Project ADORE helps Singapore Specials find loving, law-abiding homes. Core steps:
- Dog must be under 55cm at the shoulder and over six months old.
- Assessment by animal welfare groups for non-aggressive temperament.
- Compulsory basic obedience training and microchipping.
- Trial homestay for suitability, with ongoing support after adoption.
Cat Ownership in HDBs
Licensing and Welfare
Since 1 September 2024:
- Max two cats per flat, both must be licensed with AVS.
- Previously owned extra cats must be registered during the transition (till 31 August 2026). Only sterilised cats get lifetime licences.
- Keep cats indoors and windows secured, especially on high floors (NParks has reported injuries from falls).
Cat-proofing Tips
- Secure grilles or mesh screens to prevent falls.
- Ensure cats have enrichment toys to reduce nuisance behaviours.
- Clean litter boxes daily for odour control.
Other Pets You Can (and Cannot) Keep
Allowed small mammals:
Not allowed in HDBs:
- Most reptiles and amphibians (unless explicitly listed).
- Exotic, aggressive, or large animals outside the approved list.
Legal and Compliance Essentials
- Always check the breed compatibility list via AVS before adopting or buying a dog.
- Microchip and vaccinate all dogs and cats.
- Renew licences as required and display tags on pets.
- Project ADORE applicants: attend pre-adoption briefings and expect HDB/home checks.
Be aware: illegal pets may be removed, and owner fined up to S$4,000; stricter enforcement since 2024-2025.
Moving, Renting, and Multi-Pet Living Scenarios
- HDB-approved pets may not be allowed by private landlords—always check tenancy agreements for “pet-friendly HDB for rent,” and clarify rules on pet gates/fencing before moving in.
- Owning more than one dog or extra cats: only possible if you have moved into HDB with pre-existing, licensed cats during the grace period.
- For those moving from private property: remember, rules may be stricter in HDBs compared to condos or landed homes. Some condos implement their own limits—always check MCST by-laws in advance.
FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered
| Question | Short Answer |
|---|---|
| Can a HDB owner get big dog as pet? | Only if under Project ADORE (Singapore Special, <55cm); otherwise, no large breeds. |
| Can keep pets in HDB if cat-proof? | Cat-proofing helps safety, but licensing and number caps still apply. |
| Can a HDB owner keep pets? | Yes, but only within the allowed breeds (one dog) and numbers (two cats, small mammals). |
| Can you keep cat as pet in HDB? | Yes, up to two, with mandatory licensing since 2024. |
| How many pets can you have? | One approved dog, two licensed cats, plus allowed small mammals. |
| How to appeal for non-HDB breeds? | Via Project ADORE for Singapore Specials only; direct appeals are rarely successful. |
| Should you report cats in HDBs? | Yes, all cats must be licensed or substantial fines apply. |
Imported Pets: Updated Protocol (2024–2025)
- Importing pets (including from overseas moves): strict rabies protocols and AVS rules apply as of July 2024.
- All imported cats/dogs must be microchipped and vaccinated at least 30 days before importation.
- Rabies Antibody Titre Test (RATT) mandatory for many countries of origin.
- Always check latest official requirements if planning relocation or travel with your pet.
Community & Support: Resources for Pet Owners
Reach out for support or to join a community:
- For adoption or Project ADORE: Action for Singapore Dogs, Causes for Animals (Singapore), Exclusively Mongrels, MercyLight, SOSD Singapore, SPCA.
- For official info and regulation updates: AVS, NParks Pet Licensing, HDB Pets information pages.
- Consider joining online pet owner groups to keep abreast of rule changes and neighbourhood tips.
Valuable Tips for Harmonious HDB Pet Life
- Socialize pets early to reduce anxiety and noise issues in close quarters.
- Use pet-friendly home design, such as mesh on gates and windows, to prevent escapes and falls.
- Always practice considerate pet etiquette—pick up after dogs, manage noise, and address neighbour complaints promptly.
Owning a pet in HDB is rewarding when you stay informed, compliant, and considerate, creating not just a loving home for your animals, but a harmonious space for all your neighbours. Stay updated and responsible for a truly pet-friendly community.