Which dog breeds are HDB-approved in Singapore?

The HDB schedule lists 61 named breeds and a separate category for crosses of any two listed breeds. They are mostly small breeds: Maltese, Poodle (Toy or Miniature), Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, Chihuahua, miniature Dachshund, Jack Russell Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer, Pomeranian, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Japanese Spitz, Pug, and Yorkshire Terrier are examples from the list. Our breed directory lists all 58 breed profiles with housing guidance and unresolved evidence labelled.

Can I keep a mixed-breed or cross-breed dog in an HDB flat?

The HDB schedule includes crosses of any two breeds on its approved list. A small size or a designer cross-breed name alone does not establish eligibility. Confirm uncertain parentage with HDB before committing. Project ADORE is a separate route for eligible local mixed-breed rescues through participating welfare groups, with its own conditions and mandatory training.

What is the HDB size limit for dogs?

Size alone does not make an unlisted breed eligible. Project ADORE has a height limit of up to 55 cm for eligible local mixed-breed rescues and no weight cap. Check the relevant housing or adoption route, rather than applying that measurement to every dog.

What breeds are good for Singapore heat?

Flat-faced dogs are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke, but any dog can overheat. Treat our scores as editorial comparisons, not safe exercise limits. Plan around the individual dog, actual conditions and veterinary advice.

How much does a dog cost annually in Singapore?

Costs depend on the individual dog, food, grooming, health and services you use. Our calculator uses editable planning assumptions, not provider quotes. Obtain current prices and allow separately for acquisition, emergencies, insurance and boarding.

Breeds

Dog breeds for Singapore life

Filter by HDB eligibility (HDB's approved breed list), size, energy, heat tolerance and the bills. Every guide is written for someone walking a dog in this heat, in this housing.

Reviewed 2026-06-01 How we rate these breeds

HDB approved ADORE route

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Energy: Medium Cost: Over S$6,000 Clear all

Bernedoodle with distinctive black white and tan wavy coat sitting on grass in Singapore

Quiet by default

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Large

Bernedoodle

The Bernedoodle is a Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle cross known for its calm temperament and distinctive tricolour coat. Well established in Singapore through AVS-licensed importers, it requires experienced owner management for its grooming demands and special attention to heat in our climate.

A breed we don't cover yet?

We add new breed guides every week or two. If you're looking for one we haven't written up, tell us. It bumps the queue and helps us prioritise what Singapore owners are actually asking about.

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How we rate these breeds

Every breed guide on this site is written for the version of dog ownership that actually happens in Singapore. That means HDB approval is the first question, not a footnote. The approved breed list comes from HDB, the ownership limits from AVS guidance, and Project ADORE eligibility for local mixed-breeds is treated the same way the regulator treats it. Check the official rules and any additional conditions for Specified Dogs before committing.

Cost bands are editorial planning estimates, not a verified market survey or provider quotes. Check current food, grooming and veterinary prices for the individual dog, then adjust the cost calculator. Allow for acquisition, home preparation, routine care and unexpected costs separately. Insurance has exclusions, limits and co-payments, so it does not replace accessible emergency savings.

Trait ratings are editorial comparisons of typical breed tendencies. They are not a validated behavioural assessment, a documented community survey, or a prediction for an individual dog. Read each profile's source and uncertainty notes. Discuss the dog's behaviour, health and care needs with its rescue, breeder and veterinarian.

Directory filters and labels use the information recorded in each breed profile. Missing or unresolved evidence should not be read as approval. A housing label concerns eligibility; it does not promise quiet behaviour, safety around children, or suitability for every first-time owner. Project ADORE partners assess the individual rescue dog.

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We're always adding new breeds. If you know one we should cover, send it our way.

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