HDB flats may keep one dog from the approved small-breed list (62 breeds, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier), plus up to two cats since September 2024. Larger dogs are not permitted — with one exception: a local mixed-breed dog up to 55cm tall adopted through Project ADORE. Every dog must be licensed with AVS via PALS, and flat owners who breach the rules face fines of up to S$4,000.
Which dogs are approved for HDB flats?
The approved list is maintained by HDB and AVS and covers small breeds — the working benchmark is roughly 40cm at the shoulder and about 10kg. A cross of two approved breeds also qualifies. Popular examples include:
- Toy and Miniature Poodle
- Maltese
- Shih Tzu
- Bichon Frise
- Chihuahua
- Miniature Dachshund
- Jack Russell Terrier
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Pomeranian
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Japanese Spitz
- Pug
That's a sample, not the full list — always check the current official list on HDB's Keeping Pets page before committing to a breed, as it is updated from time to time. If a breed isn't on the list, it isn't allowed, however calm the individual dog.
Can I keep a bigger dog in an HDB flat?
Only through Project ADORE, and only if it's a local mixed-breed dog (a "Singapore Special"). The scheme, run by AVS with HDB and rehoming partners, allows one local mixed-breed dog up to 55cm at the shoulder per flat — the weight criterion was removed in 2020. Conditions:
- Adopt from an approved partner: Action for Singapore Dogs, Causes for Animals, Exclusively Mongrels, Mercylight, SOSD or SPCA
- The dog must be licensed, microchipped, vaccinated and sterilised
- You must complete an obedience training programme with an AVS-accredited certified dog trainer
- You sign the Code of Responsible Behaviour, committing to prevent nuisance to neighbours
ADORE does not apply to purchased dogs or imported rescues — it exists specifically to rehome Singapore's local shelter dogs.
Do I need to license my dog?
Yes — licensing via PALS (Pet Animal Licensing System, pals.avs.gov.sg) is mandatory for all dogs in Singapore, whatever your housing type. Fees as of 2026:
| Licence type | Sterilised dog | Unsterilised dog |
|---|---|---|
| 1-year | S$15 | S$90 |
| 2-year | S$25 | S$165 |
| 3-year | — | S$230 |
| One-time (lifetime) | S$35 | Not available |
A 10% rebate applies to payments made online, via GIRO or AXS. The steep unsterilised premium is deliberate policy — sterilise your dog and take the S$35 one-time licence, and you're done for the dog's lifetime.
What happens if I break the rules?
Flat owners found keeping an unapproved dog — or more pets than permitted — can be fined up to S$4,000 under HDB's rules. In practice, enforcement usually starts with a complaint from a neighbour, followed by an HDB directive to rehome the animal. That outcome is far harder on the dog than on the owner, which is the real reason to get this right before bringing a dog home, not after. Keeping an unlicensed dog is a separate offence under AVS rules.
What are the rules for condos and private housing?
Private residential premises operate under AVS rules rather than HDB's: a maximum of three dogs or cats (or a combination) per premises, and only one "Specified" (scheduled) breed — such dogs are banned from HDB flats entirely and carry extra conditions like muzzling in public. Two caveats for condo dwellers:
- Your MCST's by-laws can be stricter than AVS limits — some condos restrict pet size, number or use of common areas. Check before you buy or rent.
- Licensing and leashing laws apply identically to private housing.
What about cats and other pets in HDB flats?
Since 1 September 2024, HDB flats may keep up to two cats alongside the one approved dog, under the Housing and Development (Animals) Rules 2024 — and cat licensing is being phased in through AVS, with cat licence fees aligning to the dog fee structure from 1 September 2026. Small caged pets such as hamsters, rabbits and most aquarium fish are generally allowed without licensing. The dog remains the most regulated pet in public housing because it's the one most likely to generate noise and shared-space friction.
Quick compliance checklist
- Confirm your breed is on HDB's approved list (or qualify via Project ADORE)
- One dog per flat — no exceptions
- License via PALS; sterilised one-time licence is the best value
- Leash your dog in all public places
- Manage barking and corridor behaviour — most HDB pet disputes start with noise, and sustained complaints can end with a rehoming order
The rules look restrictive on paper, but they're navigable: between 62 approved breeds, their crosses, and the ADORE route for Singapore Specials, nearly every kind of suitable flat dog has a legal path.