HDB Approved Dog Breeds for Renters: Full List and Rules

If you're renting an HDB flat in Singapore and want to keep a dog, you can have only 1 dog per flat, and it must be from HDB's approved list of 62 small-breed dogs.[1] Understanding these rules is essential for renters who want to ensure they stay compliant with HDB regulations and avoid penalties of up to S$4,000 for violations.[2] This guide provides renters with everything they need to know about keeping dogs in HDB flats, including the complete approved breed list, licensing requirements, and practical steps to ensure a safe and legal pet ownership experience.

At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety and security in every aspect of your rental journey—including pet ownership. This guide is designed to help you make confident decisions about keeping a dog in your rental HDB flat by providing verified, transparent information directly from official sources.

The Complete List of 62 HDB Approved Dog Breeds

HDB maintains a strict list of 62 approved dog breeds that are permitted in public housing flats. These breeds are generally small to medium-sized dogs that are considered suitable for HDB living environments. Here is the comprehensive list:[1]

Affenpinscher
Australian Silky Terrier
Australian Terrier
Bichon Frise
Bohemian Terrier
Bolognese
Brussels Griffon
Bichon Havanese
Border Terrier
Boston Terrier (lightweight/middleweight)
Cairn Terrier
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Chihuahua
Chinese Crested Dog
Chinese Imperial Chin
Chinese Temple Dog (classic/miniature)
Coton de Tulear
Czech Terrier
Dachshund (light/miniature)
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
English Toy Spaniel
Griffon Belge
German Hunting Terrier
Griffon Brabancon
Hairless Dog
Italian Greyhound
Jack Russell Terrier
Japanese Spaniel (Chin)
Japanese Spitz
Lhasa Apso
Little Lion Dog
Lakeland Terrier
Maltese
Manchester Terrier
Miniature Pinscher
Miniature Schnauzer
Norfolk Terrier
Norwich Terrier
Papillon
Pekingese
Pomeranian
Poodle
Pug
Poodle (Miniature)
Schipperke
Scottish Terrier
Sealyham Terrier
Shetland Sheepdog
Shih Tzu
Silky Terrier
Small Continental Spaniel
Small English Terrier
Spaniel (Toy)
Spitz (Small)
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Terrier
Toy Fox Terrier
Toy Poodle
Toy Manchester Terrier
Welsh Terrier
West Highland White Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier

Notably, popular breeds like Corgis, Beagles, Chow Chows, Siberian Huskies, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds are not permitted in HDB flats.[1] These restrictions exist because HDB prioritizes the safety and comfort of residents in high-density living environments.

Key Rules for Dog Ownership in HDB Rentals

The One-Dog Limit

HDB flats are limited to only 1 dog per household, regardless of the size of the flat or number of residents.[1][2] This is a fundamental rule that all renters must follow. In contrast, private property owners can keep up to 3 dogs, making this one of the most significant differences between HDB and private housing pet policies.

Mandatory Licensing and Registration

Every dog kept in an HDB flat must be licensed by the National Parks Board (NParks) Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS).[1][3] The licensing fee is S$15 annually, and registration is a legal requirement, not optional.[1] As a renter, you are responsible for ensuring your dog is properly licensed—failure to do so is against the law and can result in fines up to S$4,000.[3]

To register your dog with NParks AVS, visit their official website or contact them directly for the current application process and documentation requirements.

Size Restrictions for Mixed Breeds

If your dog is a mixed breed or crossbreed, it must have a maximum shoulder height of 55cm.[1][3] This measurement is taken at the dog's shoulder when standing on all four legs. This rule ensures that larger dogs, even if they are mixed breeds, do not exceed the space and safety constraints of HDB living.

Singapore Specials: Adopting Local Mixed-Breed Dogs

HDB renters have a special opportunity to adopt local mixed-breed dogs, commonly known as "Singapore Specials," through Project ADORE (ADOption and REhoming of dogs), launched by the Save Our Street Dogs (SoSD) organisation.[1][3] This program began in March 2020 and has successfully helped many local dogs find homes in HDB flats.

To adopt a Singapore Special under Project ADORE, your dog must meet these criteria:[1][4]

Be a local medium-sized mixed breed
Be at least 6 months old
Be sterilised (neutered or spayed)
Have a maximum shoulder height of 55cm
Undergo health checks and vaccinations

In July 2022, the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) expanded the criteria for keeping larger-sized dogs in HDB under the Trap-Neuter-Release-Manage (TNRM) programme, providing additional pathways for dog adoption.[1] This demonstrates Singapore's commitment to animal welfare while maintaining HDB living standards.

Restricted and Banned Dog Breeds

Certain dog breeds are completely prohibited in HDB flats, regardless of their size or temperament. These include:[2]

Bull Terrier
Doberman Pinscher
Rottweiler
German Shepherd Dog and related breeds (Belgian Shepherd Dog, East European Shepherd Dog)
Mastiffs (including Bull Mastiff, Cane Corso, and Dogue de Bordeaux)
Crosses of these restricted breeds

No dog from the restricted "Specified Dogs" list is allowed in HDB property under the Housing and Development (Animals) Rules 2024.[2] This is a critical distinction—even if a dog breed may be licensable in private housing, it is absolutely prohibited in HDB flats.

Responsible Dog Ownership in HDB Flats

Beyond meeting breed and licensing requirements, HDB renters must demonstrate responsible pet ownership. This includes:[4]

Cleaning up waste: You are responsible for cleaning up your dog's waste promptly and properly disposing of it
Noise control: Ensure your dog does not create excessive noise or disturbance to neighbours
Safety containment: Keep your dog safely within the compounds of your flat so it does not pose a danger to other residents
Regular veterinary care: Maintain your dog's health through vaccinations and check-ups
Proper training: Ensure your dog is well-behaved and does not pose a threat to other residents or pets

Non-compliance with these responsibilities can result in complaints from neighbours and potential enforcement action by HDB authorities.

What Happens If You Violate HDB Pet Rules?

The penalties for keeping an unauthorized pet or violating HDB pet rules are substantial. Fines can reach up to S$4,000.[2][3] Beyond financial penalties, violations can result in:

Formal warnings from HDB
Mandatory removal of the pet
Potential impact on your rental agreement or future HDB eligibility
Escalation to legal proceedings if violations continue

As a renter, it is crucial to verify with your landlord that keeping a dog is permitted under your tenancy agreement, even if the dog meets HDB requirements. Some landlords may have additional pet restrictions beyond HDB regulations.

Practical Steps for HDB Renters Wanting to Keep a Dog

Step 1: Verify Your Tenancy Agreement

Before acquiring a dog, review your tenancy agreement carefully. Some landlords prohibit pets entirely or have specific restrictions beyond HDB requirements. Discuss pet ownership with your landlord in writing and obtain their written consent. This protects both you and your landlord and ensures transparency in your rental relationship.

Step 2: Choose an Approved Breed

Select a dog from HDB's approved breed list or consider adopting a Singapore Special through Project ADORE. Research breeds that suit your lifestyle and living space. Smaller breeds like Malteses, Shih Tzus, and Jack Russell Terriers are particularly popular among HDB residents because they adapt well to apartment living.

Step 3: Register Your Dog with NParks AVS

Once you have your dog, register it with NParks AVS within the required timeframe. Prepare the following documentation:

Proof of ownership (adoption certificate or purchase receipt)
Veterinary health certificate
Proof of sterilisation (if applicable)
Proof of residence (tenancy agreement or HDB lease)
Your NRIC or passport

Step 4: Pay the Annual License Fee

Pay the S$15 annual dog license fee to NParks AVS. Keep your license documentation in a safe place and renew it annually to maintain compliance.

Step 5: Maintain Responsible Ownership

Ensure your dog receives regular veterinary care, vaccinations, and training. Maintain good relationships with neighbours by managing noise and ensuring your dog does not create disturbances.

HDB Pet Policy vs. Private Housing and Condos

It's important to understand how HDB pet rules compare to other housing types in Singapore. Private property owners have significantly more flexibility—they can keep up to 3 dogs, including breeds not on the HDB approved list, though they may still face restrictions on "Specified Dogs" under national regulations.[2]

Condominium residents should note that condos may enforce additional pet by-laws beyond HDB regulations.[2] Some condos prohibit pets entirely or have strict restrictions on size and breed. Always check your condo's management rules before acquiring a pet.

For comprehensive information about pet policies across different housing types in Singapore, refer to our detailed guide on pet policies in Singapore rentals Pet Policy in Singapore Rentals: HDB, Condo & Landlord Rules | Homejourney .

Frequently Asked Questions About HDB Approved Dog Breeds

Can I keep a cat instead of a dog in my HDB flat?

Yes, HDB now allows cats in rental flats. As of late 2024, HDB residents can keep up to 2 cats per flat.[1] Cats do not require licensing like dogs do, but they must still be your responsibility, and you must ensure they do not disturb neighbours or create safety issues.

What if my dog is a crossbreed—is it automatically approved?

Not necessarily. Crossbreeds are allowed only if they meet the 55cm shoulder height requirement and do not contain DNA from restricted breeds.[1] If your crossbreed exceeds this height or contains restricted breed genetics, it will not be approved for HDB housing.