Living in Singapore · Practical life · 6 min
Keeping pets in Singapore: HDB and rental rules
Keeping a pet in Singapore depends on where you live: HDB has its own rules, and your tenancy agreement counts too.
Updated Sep 24, 2026
Having a pet in Singapore is entirely possible, but the rules are more specific than in Mexico, especially if you live in an HDB flat (public housing, where most of the population lives) or if you rent rather than own.
Dogs in HDB flats: approved breeds only
An HDB flat allows one dog per household, and it must belong to a list of approved breeds, mostly small breeds suited to apartment living, such as Maltese, Shih Tzu, Miniature Schnauzer, Poodle, Pomeranian or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The full list is on the HDB pets page. A mixed-breed dog is only allowed if its size and lineage fit the policy, or through Project ADORE, a special adoption programme for local mixed breeds ("Singapore Specials").
Cats: up to two, licensed
Since 1 September 2024, HDB allows up to two cats per household under AVS's Cat Management Framework. The transition period ended on 31 August 2026. Licences are now mandatory for cats living in HDB flats. Register your cat with AVS as soon as possible to avoid problems if there is an inspection or you need emergency vet care.
If you rent: landlord permission is not automatic
HDB allowing a pet does not mean your tenancy agreement does. In Singapore, pet restrictions in a lease are a contractual matter, not a general law. The CEA recommends reading the contract carefully. The default position is usually "no pets" unless there is a specific clause authorising it in writing. Before adopting or bringing a pet, ask for that clause to be added to the contract. A verbal agreement is not enough if a dispute comes up later.
Before bringing or adopting a pet
- Confirm with your landlord, in writing, that the lease allows pets. Ask for a specific clause, not just a verbal agreement.
- Check that your dog's breed is on HDB's approved list if you live in public housing, before getting attached to a specific puppy.
- Register the AVS licence as soon as possible. It makes emergency vet care easier to arrange.
- If you are moving from Mexico with a pet, check AVS requirements well ahead of time. The process can take weeks.
In condos, each management decides
Private condos do not always follow the same rules as HDB. Some are more flexible on breeds and numbers, others stricter. Check the specific condo's by-laws before assuming the same rules apply.
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