List of HDB-Approved Dog Breeds in Singapore

If you’re living in a Housing & Development Board (HDB) flat and dreaming of a furry companion, it’s important to know exactly which dog breeds are allowed, and why that matters. In Singapore, not all dogs are HDB-approved. Only a regulated list of small and medium-sized breeds (or eligible mixed breeds under Project ADORE) is permitted. 

In this blog, you will find a list of HDB-approved dog breeds. We will also list their traits and personalities, to help you choose a dog that is permitted, neighbour-friendly and a great fit for your home.

Dachshund (Light or Miniature)

The Dachshund is a lively little companion that fits beautifully into HDB homes. Known for their long bodies and big personalities, they’re alert, brave, and surprisingly confident for their size. Dachshunds bond deeply with their families and enjoy being involved in daily routines.

Because they’re smart and curious, they love interactive play and mentally stimulating activities, making them a fun choice for households looking for an active yet compact breed.

Personality & Traits

• Bold, curious, and playful
• Loyal and family-oriented
• Alert with strong watchdog instincts
• Enjoy indoor games and puzzles
• Independent but affectionate
  

Pug

The Pug is a charming and affectionate breed that easily adapts to apartment living. With their friendly and gentle nature, Pugs thrive on human companionship and love to be at the centre of family life.

They are playful but have relatively low exercise needs, making them ideal for busy owners or those with smaller homes. Known for their easy going temperament, Pugs get along well with children and other pets, bringing joy and warmth wherever they go.

Personality & Traits

• Gentle, loving, and people-oriented
• Enjoy being close to their humans all day
• Naturally playful and good with families
• Low-maintenance exercise needs
• Known for their friendly, easy going nature
  

Australian Terrier

One of the most energetic and intelligent dog breeds, the Australian Terrier is a small but confident dog breed that is an excellent watchdog, always alert and ready to protect their family. 

They enjoy training sessions and thrive on mental and physical challenges, making them an ideal choice for owners who enjoy engaging with their pets regularly. Loyal and eager to please, Australian Terriers form strong bonds and are very social with their human companions.

Personality & Traits

• Energetic, confident, and highly intelligent
• Excellent for active households
• Strong watchdog instincts despite their size
• Loyal and eager to please
• Quick learners and enjoy training sessions
  

Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a spirited and affectionate breed, known for its fluffy coat and lively personality. These small dogs are confident little watchdogs who love being social and getting plenty of attention from their families.

Pomeranians enjoy mental stimulation and thrive with regular grooming and bonding time. Their outgoing nature and alertness make them great apartment pets that bring energy and affection into any home.

Personalities & Traits

• Spirited, alert, and full of personality
• Social and affectionate with familiar people
• Confident little watchdogs
• Thrive with attention and mental activity
• Ideal for owners who enjoy grooming and bonding time
  

Shih Tzu

These are calm and sweet-natured companions, perfect for HDB living. Known for their friendly and cuddly personality, Shih Tzus enjoy indoor play and adapt well to various home environments.

They form close bonds with their families and are especially great with children and seniors. Their gentle temperament and moderate activity levels make them a loving pet for those seeking a relaxed yet affectionate furry friend.

Personality & Traits

• Calm, sweet-natured, and friendly
• Wonderful companions for families and seniors
• Enjoy indoor living and short play sessions
• Known for their affectionate, cuddly nature
• Adaptable to different home routines
  

Poodle (Toy or Miniature)

Known for their intelligence and affectionate nature, Toy and Miniature Poodles are among the most popular HDB-approved breeds. Their hypoallergenic coat makes them ideal for homes sensitive to allergens. 

Poodles are highly trainable, love mental challenges, and thrive on human interaction, making them wonderful companions for both first-time and experienced dog owners.

Personality & Traits

• Highly intelligent and easy to train
• Playful and energetic
• Hypoallergenic, low-shedding coat
• Affectionate and social
• Adapt well to apartment living
  

Maltese

Small but full of charm, the Maltese is a gentle and loving dog that fits perfectly in smaller living spaces. These dogs enjoy being pampered and thrive on close bonds with their families.

They have a calm demeanour but also love short play sessions and regular grooming to keep their silky coat looking its best.

Personality & Traits

• Sweet and gentle nature
• Great for families and seniors
• Low exercise needs
• Requires regular grooming
• Affectionate and loyal
  

Australian Silky Terrier

With their silky coat and lively spirit, the Australian Silky Terrier is a confident little dog that enjoys being active and alert.

They’re known for their intelligence and loyalty, making them attentive companions and good watchdogs despite their small size. This breed benefits from daily mental and physical activity.

Personality & Traits

• Energetic and alert
• Intelligent and trainable
• Loyal and protective
• Needs regular grooming
• Enjoys mental stimulation
  

Jack Russell Terrier

Famous for their boundless energy and fearless attitude, Jack Russell Terriers are spirited and lively pets that thrive in active homes. Though small, they require plenty of exercise and mental challenges to stay happy.

Their curious and playful nature makes them entertaining companions, but also demands consistent training.

Personality & Traits

• Highly energetic and playful
• Intelligent and curious
• Requires regular exercise
• Strong-willed but trainable
• Loyal and affectionate
  

Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is a cheerful and hardy little dog that fits comfortably into HDB homes. Known for their friendly nature and adaptable temperament, they enjoy being part of family activities and stay happy as long as they get regular walks and mental stimulation. 

Their easy going attitude makes them suitable for both active owners and those seeking a low-fuss companion. With their wiry coat and bright expressions, Border Terriers bring warmth and character to any household.

Personality & Traits

• Friendly, affectionate, and people-oriented
• Energetic yet manageable in small spaces
• Intelligent and eager to learn
• Low-shedding, easy-care coat
• Likes daily walks and interactive play
• Gets along well with families and other pets
  

Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher brings a playful yet confident vibe to any home. Often called “little monkeys” for their expressive faces, they’re bold, curious, and surprisingly fearless for their size.

This breed enjoys being close to their humans and loves interactive play, making them ideal for families who enjoy a lively little companion.

Personalities & Traits

• Playful and mischievous
• Confident and fearless
• Loyal to their family
• Requires mental stimulation
• Great for apartment living
  

Chihuahua

Known for their tiny size and big personality, the Chihuahua makes a spirited companion that fits beautifully into HDB homes. These dogs form strong bonds with their favourite people and enjoy being pampered.

Despite their small stature, they are alert, expressive, and full of attitude, making them both entertaining and loving pets.

Personality & Traits

• Bold and expressive
• Loyal and affectionate
• Alert and vocal watchdog
• Enjoys being close to their owner
• Thrives in small living spaces
  

Papillon

With a dainty appearance and butterfly-like ears, the Papillon stands out as a graceful yet energetic breed. They’re known for their intelligence and eagerness to learn, making them excellent for owners who enjoy training and interactive activities.

Their cheerful nature and bright personality make them a delight in any household.

Personality & Traits

• Highly intelligent and trainable
• Cheerful and friendly
• Active but manageable indoors
• Friendly with people and pets
• Loves mental enrichment
  

Miniature Pinscher

Sleek and confident, the Miniature Pinscher is known for its spirited temperament and alert nature. Often referred to as the “King of Toys,” this breed is lively, curious, and full of energy.

They enjoy exploring their surroundings and staying engaged, making them great for owners who appreciate a playful and sharp-minded companion.

Personality & Traits

• Energetic and alert
• Smart and independent
• Confident and expressive
• Prefers active playtime
• Makes a vigilant little watchdog
  

Japanese Spaniel (also known as Chin)

The elegant Japanese Spaniel (Chin) is a calm, cat-like companion known for its gentle personality and affectionate demeanour. They enjoy lounging beside their humans and adapt well to quiet homes.

With their soft expressions and graceful movements, they make soothing, loving pets for those who prefer a relaxed, easy going breed.

Personality & Traits

• Gentle and affectionate
• Calm and adaptable
• Enjoys quiet, cosy environments
• Low exercise needs
• Friendly with family members

Every dog brings something unique to a home, so the right match depends on your lifestyle and the kind of companion you’re hoping for.

When you’re ready to welcome your new furry friend, HUFT is there to make the journey happy for your pet through the app or stores across Singapore. We will help you find everyday essentials like food, toys, treats, beds, and a lot more that make settling in together easier.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What makes a dog HDB-approved?

HDB-approved dogs are typically small or medium-sized breeds that are considered suitable for close living spaces. They’re chosen for their manageable size, gentle temperament, and lower likelihood of causing disturbances in high-density homes.

Do HDB-approved dogs bark less?

Not necessarily. Barking depends on personality, training, and environment. Early training, mental stimulation, and routine help keep noise levels manageable.

How do I choose the right breed for my HDB home?

Consider your lifestyle, energy levels, grooming commitment, and how much time you can spend with your dog. Each breed has different needs, so it helps to pick one that naturally fits your routine.