Pet-Friendly Restaurants /

Progress on Restaurant Access

Hong Kong is making progress towards more pet-inclusive dining. Under the Food Business (Amendment) Regulation 2026, which came into effect on 8 May 2026, restaurant operators may apply for permission to allow dogs to enter their premises, subject to licence conditions and operational requirements. In the first phase, up to 1,000 restaurants may join the scheme, with successful applications to be announced from 12 June 2026 and dog admission started on 9 July 2026. There were over 2000 applications submitted which is far exceeding the quota, showing the enthusiasm from the trade towards pet inclusivity. (Source)

The Road to Pet-Friendly Dining

Before 1992
Dogs were permitted in restaurant premises under the rules in place at the time.
1992
Legislative changes introduced a general ban on dogs entering food premises, except guide dogs and certain working dogs.
2025 Policy Address
The Government announced plans to explore allowing dogs into licensed restaurants.
13 March 2026
The Food Business (Amendment) Regulation 2026 was gazetted.
8 May 2026
The new regulation came into effect. Restaurant operators may apply for permission to allow dogs to enter their premises.
12 June 2026
First-phase application results released.
9 July 2026

Approved restaurants expected to begin admitting dogs.

How SPCA Supports Pet-Inclusive Dining

SPCA Hong Kong has long advocated for a more pet-inclusive city while emphasising that inclusion must go hand in hand with animal welfare, public hygiene, safety, and mutual respect. As this new arrangement takes shape, responsible implementation will be key — with clear guidance for restaurants, thoughtful preparation by businesses, and responsible behaviour from dog owners.

Advocacy

Supporting progress towards a more pet-inclusive Hong Kong

Education

Helping the public and businesses understand best practices

Guidance

Sharing practical resources for responsible implementation

Animal Welfare

Promoting welfare-first pet inclusion

Why this change matters for businesses and pet owners and dogs

For Dogs

  • Dogs get to benefit from being taken out more often to socialise and get more exercise
  • Dogs get to spend more time with their owners

For pet owner

  • Makes everyday outings more convenient
  • Supports a more inclusive city lifestyle
  • Creates more shared spaces with pets
  • Encourages responsible public pet etiquette

For businesses

  • Creates an opportunity to welcome new customers
  • Responds to changing public expectations
  • Helps businesses differentiate their offering
  • Encourages better preparedness and clear operational standards
Pet-Friendly Restaurants