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Choosing the right dog breed is important for both your lifestyle and your pet’s happiness! Before you get a dog for yourself, be sure to read this helpful guide along with the guides and regulations in Singapore you’ll need to follow!
Most Popular Dog Breeds in Singapore
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Small Breeds : Spaces can be limited in Singapore. Small dog breeds such as Pomeranians, Malteses, Shih Tzus, Dachshunds and Toy Poodles are perfect for HDB flats, apartments and other compact spaces. These dog breeds in Singapore are indoor dogs and are usually much easier to manage indoors compared to the large dog breeds. Some of these small dog breeds can be playful, gentle, affectionate and highly intelligent.
- Medium Breeds: Medium breeds are ideal for those who have a bit more space and a bit of time for walks and outdoor play. These medium-sized breeds are manageable indoors but also have enough energy for outdoor play. Some of the common medium breeds in Singapore are Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, Corgis and Border Collies.
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Large Breeds : Large breeds need ample space to roam, run and play daily to burn off their energy. They’re great for those with landed properties that have space large enough for these big dog breeds to feel comfortable. They are also best suited for owners who practice an active and outdoor lifestyle. Some of the popular big dog breeds in Singapore include Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Siberian Huskies, and German Shepherds.
Regulations on Owning Dog Breeds in Singapore
Singapore is a pet-friendly country. However, owning a dog in Singapore comes with guidelines and regulations. It’s important to comply with the local regulations to protect both pets and the people around you.HDB-Approved Dog Breeds
In Singapore, HDB flats only allow certain small dog breeds as listed by the HDB. This is to ensure that it does not cause any inconvenience to the people living around you. Home owners can only keep one dog from the list of approved breeds in their flat. Some of the approved breeds include:- Dachshund (Light or Miniature)
- Pug
- Pomeranian
- Shih Tzu
- Maltese
- Jack Russell Terrier
Refer list of approved dog breeds in Singapore by HBD here.
Mandatory Dog Licensing Under AVS Singapore
All dogs regardless of breed and size in Singapore must be licensed under the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) of the National Parks Board (NParks). This is important as it can help track vaccinations, trace dogs in case of disease outbreaks and ensure public safety. The dog license must be renewed before the expiration date printed on the license tag.
Restricted or Banned Dog Breeds in Singapore
Due to safety concerns to ensure a safe and secure environment for its residents, certain breeds are restricted or banned in Singapore. Below are some examples of dog breeds that are restricted or banned:
Dog breeds banned in Singapore:
- Pitbull
- Akita
- Tosa
- Neopolitan Mastiff
- Doho Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
- Boerboel
- Pero de Presa Canario
Dog breeds that are subject to stricter licensing and muzzling:
- Bull Terrier
- Doberman Pinscher
- Rottweiler
- German Shepherd
Choosing the Right Dog Breed for Your Lifestyle
Before choosing the right dog breed for your lifestyle, consider the following factors:
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Living Space : Consider where you live. Smaller breeds are better suited for HBD flats and apartments, whereas larger breeds are best suited for landed properties.
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Research Your Preferred Breeds : It’s always a good idea to do your own research on the different dog breeds that have caught your attention. Find out their personality traits, general behaviour and other traits before making your decision.
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Activity level : If you practice an active lifestyle, you may want to consider a larger breed as you can match with their high-energy levels. These dogs have plenty of energy to burn off and require lots of exercise and outdoor playtime.
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Experience with Dogs : Depending on your experience with dogs, first-time dog owners may want to consider easy-going breeds like Golden Retrievers or Shih Tzus.
Dog Breed Clubs and Associations in Singapore
If you’re looking for dog breed clubs and associations in Singapore where you can connect with other dog owners or get some breed-specific advice, Singapore has an active community of dog breed clubs. There are various activities, including training courses, dog shows as well as seminars and talks on educating dog owners in being responsible for the care and well-being of their dogs. -
The Singapore Kennel Club (SKC): A club for all dog lovers
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Breed-Specific Facebook Groups: These include the German Shepherd Dog Club of Singapore
Conclusion
No matter where you’re living – whether in a high-rise building or a landed property with plenty of space, there’s a perfect dog breed for every home in Singapore. While Singapore is a pet-friendly country, you also need to ensure you comply with the local guidelines and regulations, especially the licensing requirements. If you’ve found the perfect dog breed for your home, don’t forget to stock up on everything your furry companion needs for a happy and healthy life! Check out Perromart Singapore for the best dog food in Singapore for all your doggo needs, from high-quality food and dog treats to healthcare and dog toys. Here, you can find all that you need from various brands for your furry friend. Shop now at Perromart Singapore!
