In Singapore, living in a Housing and Development Board (HDB) flat comes with rules—especially when it comes to owning pets. While you may dream of having a furry or feathery companion, not all pets are allowed in HDB flats. The government enforces these rules to maintain a peaceful environment in high-density living spaces. Failure to follow the rules can lead to a fine of up to $5,000.
This guide will help you understand which pets are allowed in HDB flats, the new cat policy, and how to be a responsible pet owner in Singapore.
Choosing the Right Pet for Your Home
When choosing the right pet for your HDB home, it’s important to start by understanding HDB regulations. Not all animals are allowed—certain dog breeds are approved, and cats are now permitted with a license starting from 1 September 2024. Space is another crucial factor. Since HDB flats are relatively compact, smaller pets like hamsters, rabbits, or fish are often better suited to the environment. You should also consider how much noise the pet may make and how that could affect your neighbors. Additionally, think about how much time and energy you can realistically dedicate to caring for a pet. Some pets require daily grooming, regular exercise, and cleaning, while others are more low-maintenance.
It’s equally important to think about the pet’s lifespan—some, like turtles or parrots, can live for decades and will need long-term care. Hygiene and health considerations are also key. Pets with fur or dander may trigger allergies, so cleanliness must be maintained, especially in small living spaces. Budgeting is another big part of responsible ownership. You’ll need to account for food, grooming, accessories, and medical care, including potential vet bills. Pet insurance can help manage unexpected health costs. Lastly, consider your household’s lifestyle and members. A good pet should match your family’s needs, energy level, and living habits to ensure a happy home for both you and your new companion.
HDB-Approved Dogs: What You Need to Know
How Many Dogs Can I Keep?
HDB flat owners are only allowed one dog per flat, and it must be on the official list of 62 approved breeds or a mixed breed that meets specific size requirements.
What About Mixed Breeds and Mongrels?
You can keep a Singapore Special, a local mixed breed, if the dog meets the following criteria:
- Shoulder height not more than 55cm
- Sterilised
- At least 6 months old
- Adopted through Project ADORE (a programme that promotes adoption of local mixed breeds)
Project ADORE, backed by organisations like Save Our Street Dogs (SOSD), has helped more Singaporeans welcome these loving companions into HDB homes.
Do I Need to Register My Dog?
Yes. All dogs must be licensed with the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) through the Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS). Licensing fees start from $15 depending on the dog’s age and sterilisation status.
List of HDB-Approved Dog Breeds (2023)
Here are some popular breeds from the official list of 62:
- 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
- Daschund (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
- Pekinese
- Pomeranian
- Poodle
- Pug
- Poodle (Miniature)
- Schipperke
- Scottish Terrier
- Sealyham Terrier
- Shetland Sheepdog
- Shih Tzu
- Silky Terrier
- Small Continental Spaniel
- Small English Terrier
- Small Spitz
- Smooth Fox Terrier
- Toy Fox Terrier
- Toy Terrier
- Tibetan Spaniel
- Volpino Italiano
- West Highland Terrier
- Wire-haired Fox Terrier
- Welsh Terrier
- Yorkshire Terrier
Top 5 HDB-Friendly Dog Breeds in Singapore
- Poodles: Intelligent, trainable, and low-shedding. Comes in Toy, Miniature, and Standard sizes.
- Pomeranians: Small and cheerful. Needs moderate exercise.
- Singapore Special: Loyal and adaptable. Great for Singapore’s climate.
- Japanese Spitz: Sociable, fluffy, and easy to train.
- Shetland Sheepdogs: Smart, gentle, and manageable with regular exercise.
Popular Dog Breeds Not Allowed in HDB Flats
Unfortunately, some much-loved dog breeds are not HDB-approved. These include:
- Corgi: Too energetic with strong herding instincts.
- Golden Retriever: Large size and high activity levels.
- Shiba Inu: Independent and stubborn, difficult for first-time owners.
- Husky: Needs space and exercise, not suited to Singapore’s climate.
- Labrador Retriever: Friendly but needs a larger living space.
If you live in private housing, you have more flexibility with your choice of dog breed.
HDB-Approved Cats: What You Need to Know
As of 2 December 2023, the Singapore government announced that HDB residents will be allowed to keep up to two cats per flat, starting from the second half of 2024.
Key points of the proposed cat management framework:
- Maximum of 2 cats per HDB flat, 3 cats for private homes
- Mandatory microchipping and licensing
- Two-year grace period to allow for adjustments
- Penalties similar to those for illegal dog ownership
This change ends a 34-year ban on cats in public housing and is a major win for cat lovers.
Do I Need to Register My Cat?
All pet cats must be licensed to ensure traceability in the event of a disease outbreak. This helps protect both animals and the community.
Starting 1 September 2024, you can apply for a new cat licence online through the Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS). Before submitting your application, please review the requirements and guidelines to ensure a smooth process.
Top 5 HDB-Friendly Cat Breeds in Singapore
- British Shorthair: Calm, independent, and low-maintenance; perfect for busy apartment dwellers.
- Burmese: Affectionate and sociable cats that thrive on human companionship.
- Ragdoll: Gentle, cuddly, and laid-back—ideal for families and quiet homes.
- Devon Rex: Playful and curious with a quirky look and low-shedding coat.
- American Shorthair: Easygoing and adaptable with a balanced, relaxed temperament.
Other Pets You Can Keep in HDB Flats
Besides cats and approved dog breeds, HDB residents can also keep small pets, provided they do not cause inconvenience to neighbours. Here’s what’s allowed:
- Hamsters: Small, quiet, and easy to care for, hamsters are perfect for compact living spaces.
- Guinea Pigs: Gentle and sociable, guinea pigs enjoy interaction without needing much room.
- Rabbits: Affectionate and trainable, rabbits thrive indoors with proper space and care.
- Mice: Low-maintenance and entertaining, mice are great for those with limited space.
- Chinchillas: Soft, clean, and quiet, chinchillas adapt well to cool, indoor environments.
- Fish: Colorful and calming, fish tanks add life and beauty to small homes.
- Birds: Chirpy and social, many small birds make lively companions for flat dwellers.
- Green Tree Frogs: Low-noise and visually interesting, these frogs are easy to observe and care for.
- Red-Eared Sliders: Hardy and long-lived, they’re fascinating aquatic turtles for patient owners.
- Malayan Box Turtles: Quiet and low-interaction pets, ideal for those who enjoy unique creatures.
- Land Hermit Crabs: Quirky and low-maintenance, hermit crabs are fun to watch and easy to house.
Always ensure your pet is not part of the illegal wildlife trade and isn’t classified as a wild or exotic animal.
Banned Pets in Singapore
These animals are not allowed in HDB flats or as pets in general:
- Hedgehogs
- Iguanas
- Snakes
- Sugar gliders
- Tarantulas
- Scorpions
- Crocodilian reptiles
- Bearded dragons
- Star tortoises
- Salamanders
Such animals may pose health or safety risks and can disturb the local ecosystem if released.
Adopt Responsibly: Don’t Rush Into Pet Ownership
While certain pets are legally allowed in HDB flats or condos, that doesn’t mean everyone should rush to adopt one. Pet ownership is a long-term commitment that requires serious thought. You’ll need to consider your daily schedule, your home’s size, your energy levels, and your budget. Pets need regular feeding, grooming, cleaning, mental stimulation, and medical care; all of which take time and money.
If you’re not quite ready for a pet, start small. Houseplants are a great first step. They add life and color to your home and help you build a habit of daily care with far less responsibility.
Not ready for a pet? Start with houseplants! They require less care and still brighten your home.
Clean Homes, Happy Pets
A clean home is a healthy home for both you and your pet. Regular vacuuming, wiping surfaces, and keeping litter boxes or cages clean will go a long way in preventing odors, pests, and health issues. This is especially important for pets that shed fur or may have the occasional accident indoors.
If your schedule is tight, consider outsourcing the job. There are many online platforms that offer pet-friendly cleaning services that you can book through their app. It’s a fuss-free way to maintain a fresh and hygienic home environment.
Consider Pet Insurance
Unexpected vet bills can quickly add up, especially during emergencies. Pet insurance gives you peace of mind by covering the cost of treatments for illnesses, accidents, and sometimes even chronic or hereditary conditions. With many plans available in Singapore, it’s important to read the fine print and compare coverage before signing up. Look out for exclusions, waiting periods, and reimbursement limits to find a plan that truly fits your needs.
Having a pet in your HDB flat can be a rewarding experience—if you know the rules and are prepared for the responsibility. Always refer to official sources like NParks and HDB for the most updated pet ownership regulations. With the right planning and love, your pet can truly be part of your family.
