Good news, furparents! Your doggos may soon be allowed to accompany you on your dinner outings by mid-2026!
The Hong Kong government is set to introduce a new voluntary license program that will permit dogs to enter up to 1,000 restaurants, as part of efforts to support the growing pet-friendly economy, announced during the Chief Executive’s 2025 Policy Address. This follows a decades-long rule that bans pet dogs inside restaurants, which was enacted in 1994.
Under the proposed arrangement, select food establishments will be allowed to welcome dogs indoors. The program will initially be limited to around 500 to 1,000 permits, allowing authorities to monitor and adjust before expanding it. Due to safety concerns, hotpot and BBQ restaurants are not included in the scheme.
Restaurants may apply for a permit for HK$140. Once approved, establishments must display clear signage that informs diners that they are dog-friendly. While dogs are allowed inside, they will not be permitted on dining tables. Restaurants will also be prohibited from preparing food for pets, although owners may bring food for their dogs.
In turn, pet owners will be responsible for taking care of their pets. Pet dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than 1.5 metres or secured to a fixed object. Certain breeds, including Pit Bulls, Dogo Argentinos, Japanese Tosas, and Filas Brasileiros, will not be allowed indoors under the scheme.
The move is expected to give pet owners more options for casual meals, meet-ups, and weekend hangouts, while creating new business opportunities for the food and hospitality sector.
The initiative follows other recent pet-friendly efforts in the city, including the upcoming SPCA Dogathon charity event, where dogs will be allowed to ride on MTR trains.
While this is still in the works, you may check out these pet-friendly cafes in Hong Kong to bond with your loved ones while still having your furbabies with you!
