Everything You Need to Know About Dog-Friendly Dining in Hong Kong
For the first time in over 30 years, dog owners will be able to dine side-by-side with their dogs at dog-friendly restaurants across the city, permitted by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD).
To make sure this major milestone in pet inclusivity is a roaring (and barking) success, we’ve broken down the official statutory rules and best-practice etiquette.
The Legal Requirements
Before planning your outing, it is crucial to know that certain requirements are strictly prescribed by law.
- Dogs must be kept on a leash of not more than 1.5 m in length and securely held by an adult or securely tied to a fixture at the premises. A dog should not be leashed by a minor in any circumstance. If you need to leave your seat briefly, seek staff assistance.
- Fighting dogs or known dangerous dogs are strictly prohibited.
- Dogs are not allowed in food rooms at any time when they are in restaurants.
Licensing Conditions and Best Practice Recommendations
Beyond the law, restaurants are bound by a set of licensing conditions, and the FEHD has also issued a set of Guidelines on Good Practices and Behaviour (Guidelines) to ensure hygiene and harmony. While the Guidelines are recommendations from the Government, keep in mind that restaurants can choose to adopt them as individual house rules.
Check House Rules or "Notes to Customers"
- Restaurants may set individual house rules based on venue or operational needs. The restaurant may refuse entry if their house requirements aren’t met.
- Before heading out, you can check the FEHD’s dedicated webpage for the list of permitted restaurants.
Have a Copy of your Licence Available
- Dogs must be rabies-vaccinated, microchipped, and licensed according to The Rabies Regulation (Cap. 421A). Be ready to present the licence when requested (an electronic copy via “iAM Smart” works wonders!).
- If the restaurant asks to see it and you can’t produce it, they have a right to turn you away.
Ensure your Dog is Happy and Healthy
- Assess if your dog’s temperament is ready for a busy restaurant environment. If they show signs of aggression, anxiety, or extreme distress, it is best to skip dining out that day.
- Ensure your dog is in good health, free of fleas/ticks, and up to date on de-worming. Do not dine out if your dog is unwell or exhibits signs of infectious disease.
Pack Essentials
- Restaurants are prohibited from cooking/preparing dog food. Only pre-packaged dry dog food, vacuum-packed dog food and canned dog food may be sold or provided to customers, so don’t forget to pack the essentials! Bring your own dog food, tableware exclusively for dogs, comfort items to help them settle, and cleaning supplies.
Safety and Operational Restrictions
- Keep dogs out of food rooms (such as kitchens and food preparation areas).
- Ensure your dog, including their strollers or carriers, do not obstruct passageways, fire escapes, or emergency exits.
- Dogs are not permitted to touch or sit on dining tables, nor be seated at bar counter seats adjoining an open kitchen. Depending on the restaurant’s rules, dogs may be required to stay on pet mats or pee pads.
Maintaining a Clean Environment
If your dog soils the premises, you must:
- Promptly clean and dispose of the waste properly. Ensuring you wash and disinfect your hands thoroughly afterwards.
- Notify staff so they can inspect and disinfect further if needed.
* If you don’t clean up, or restore basic hygiene, the restaurant may clean and charge a cleaning fee, subject to individual house rules.
Be Mindful of Other Diners
- Follow the house rules about where dogs can rest (chairs/owner lap versus floor). If another diner at your table or nearby expresses concern about where a dog is resting, promptly move your dog back to the floor.
- Prevent conflicts: stop your dog from jumping at other customers or dogs. If your dog becomes over-excited or aggressive, calm them down or take them outside for a quick break—return only once they have settled. Persistent issues may mean your dog isn’t suitable for dining that day.
Enjoy dog-friendly dining responsibly: respect each restaurant’s house rules and follow the Guidelines. This keeps restaurants clean, safe, and welcoming for all diners—whether they come with pets or not.
